If you want to work in the UK security industry, getting a security license badge and renewing it has a predetermined cost. Being well-informed about the expenses of receiving an SIA licence or badge will help you process your application smoothly without delays.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is an organisation that oversees and regulates the private security industry in the UK. It was established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to reduce crime, improve standards, and ensure high-quality service within the industry.
To work in security, you need an SIA license, which qualifies you for roles such as security guard, door supervisor, CCTV operator, or close protection officer. The license ensures you are properly trained and qualified to perform your duties. Each role requires a specific license, so choosing the one that matches your career goals is important. SIA licenses are valid for three years.
Your first SIA license costs £184, valid for 3 years. Before applying, you’ll need to complete compulsory training, which can vary in cost depending on the licence type and training provider.
If you already have an SIA license, you can get a 50% discount when applying for a license in a different sector. For example, if you have a Door Supervisor Licence and want to apply for a CCTV Licence, you’ll only pay £92 if your Door Supervisor license has more than 4 months left. This discount doesn’t apply to renewals within the same sector.
| SIA Licence Type | Roles Covered | Cost | Validity | Requirements |
| Door Supervisor Licence | Door supervision at events, bars, nightclubs, and security guarding | £184 | 3 years | Door supervisor training course, first aid qualification, and criminal record check |
| Security Guard Licence | Static guarding, retail security, and similar roles | £184 | 3 years | Security guard training course and criminal record check |
| CCTV Licence | Operating CCTV systems in public spaces (Public Space Surveillance) | £184 | 3 years | CCTV operator course and criminal record check |
| Close Protection Licence | Bodyguard and close protection operative roles | £184 | 3 years | Close protection training course and criminal record check |
A background check, including criminal history and identity verification, is required for the SIA application process. This cost is usually included in the application fee. However, additional charges of £20-£40 may apply if your application involves checks for foreign residency.
The fee for renewing your SIA licence every three years remains £184. If your licence card is lost or damaged, you must pay a £36 fee for a replacement.
Whether you're training as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard, or in Close Protection, knowing the fees and requirements helps you plan. Explore our SIA courses, including CCTV Operator training, to get qualified and advance your career!
Getting your SIA Door Supervisor License is simple when you follow these steps:
Renewing your SIA License is usually simple, but sometimes you might need extra training, depending on when you got your qualification.
You do not need extra training if:
If you need extra training, pass a refresher course such as ‘Top-Up Training for Door Supervisors‘ before renewing your license. You can start the renewal process four months before your license expires, but the new license will start only after your current one expires.
The SIA is responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK. It was created under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to reduce crime, improve standards, and ensure high-quality service in the security sector.
Your first SIA license costs £184, valid for three years. You’ll also need to complete compulsory training, which varies in cost depending on the type of licence and training provider.
If you already hold an SIA license, you can get a 50% discount when applying for an additional license in a different sector. For example, if you have a Door Supervisor License and want a CCTV License, you’ll pay only £92 if your current license is still valid for more than 4 months.
A background check, including criminal history and identity verification, is part of the application process and is usually covered by the £184 fee. However, additional charges of £20-£40 may apply if foreign residency checks are needed.
The fee for renewing your SIA license every three years is £184. If your license card is lost or damaged, the replacement fee is £36.
To apply, you must complete the Door Supervisor training course, submit an application on the SIA website, and pass identity and background checks. Once approved, you will receive your license in the mail, valid for three years.
If your qualification was awarded after April 2021 and includes the certificate “[Awarding body name] Level 2 Award in Door Supervision (QCF),” you won’t need extra training. However, if additional training is required, you can complete a refresher course before renewing your licence.
In summary, getting your first SIA license costs £184 and is valid for 3 years. You will also need to complete the required training, which can vary in price. If you already have an SIA licence, you can get a 50% discount when applying for a licence in a different sector. Other costs to remember include background check fees and a £36 charge if your licence card is lost or damaged. Knowing these costs will help you plan and avoid delays in getting or renewing your SIA licence.
