In order to work in the private security sector, you must have a SIA licence. Find out how to get your door supervisor or security guard licence so you may operate lawfully.
Although there is no standard time frame, the SIA advises that it may take up to 25 working days to obtain your SIA licence. It could take up to 6 weeks or even more in the rare instances where problems with identity verification or inquiries about criminal histories arise. A choice will be made on whether or not to provide a licence during this period. You will receive a licence that is good for three years after the SIA writes to you to explain their decision.
WARNING: The Security Industry Authority-accredited training and credentials are a legal requirement for everyone working in the security industry in the United Kingdom. It is illegal to practise in the sector without a current SIA Licence; as a result, you risk being fined or imprisoned.
Depending on what kind of Course it is, it could take about 6 days to finish. There are multiple-choice tests and a practical test at the end of the training course.
It costs £190 to start an application for a licence. Within 25 business days, the SIA will get back to you. This can sometimes take up to 6 weeks.
Parts of your SIA application, like your photo ID, will require you to prove who you are. The Post Office is the ideal place for this. You can also have an unrelated person with a British passport sign the back of your photo ID.
The SIA will check your background and make sure you are who you say you are. If you have lived abroad for 6 months or more, you may need to show proof.
You've finally got your licence! The SIA licence you have is good for 3 years.