Planning to become a security guard in 2025? You’re entering the field at an ideal time.
With increased demand for qualified professionals across the UK, now is a great time to explore a career in the security industry.
From construction sites and retail stores to transport hubs and public event venues, employers are actively hiring trained security guards to maintain safety, protect assets, and manage crowd control.
Whether you’re just starting out, switching careers, or looking to enter a more stable profession, security work offers a range of opportunities — including flexible hours, career progression, and the chance to work in diverse environments.
But what exactly does a security guard do? What qualifications do you need? How much does training cost, and where can you find reliable providers?
This article will walk you through everything you need to know — from required skills and qualifications to training, licensing, earning potential, and job options. It’s your complete guide to starting a successful career as a security guard in the UK.
Interested in exploring a career in security?
Check out our article on a comprehensive guide to top SIA security jobs
Who Is a Security Guard and their Core Responsibilities
A security guard is a licensed professional trained to protect individuals, assets, and premises by preventing and responding to security threats.
They play a vital role in ensuring safety and enforcing rules in public and private settings.
They work across a range of sectors and settings, from corporate buildings and warehouses to construction sites and retail environments.
The core responsibilities of a security guard include:
- Monitoring CCTV systems and alarm panels
- Conducting patrols to check for breaches or hazards
- Controlling access to facilities through ID checks or passes
- Intervening in incidents like theft, disputes, or trespassing
- Writing accurate incident reports and maintaining records
Security guards are often the first line of defence in a crisis, and their presence alone can discourage unlawful behaviour.
In the UK, security guards are required to hold an SIA licence and follow strict guidelines on what they can and cannot do.
Types of Security Guards
Security guards can work in a variety of settings, depending on the environment and the security risks involved.
The role varies depending on where you’re stationed and what needs to be protected.
Listed below are a few key types of security guards:
- CCTV Operators for off-site monitoring.
- Retail Guards work in shops to prevent theft.
- Construction Site Guards securing tools and equipment.
- Public Event Security for crowd control and incident response.
- Static Guards keep an eye on one fixed location.
- Patrol Guards covering larger or multiple premises.
Regardless of the setting, responsibilities always revolve around safety and maintaining a peaceful environment.
How to Become a Security Guard in the UK
If you’re wondering how to become a security guard, the first step is to meet the legal and training requirements set by the UK government.
To work as a professional security guard in retail, construction sites, office buildings, or public events, you must hold a valid SIA Security Guard Licence.
This licence is issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the official body that regulates the UK’s private security industry. To qualify, you’ll need to complete a government-approved training course delivered by an authorised provider like Hurak.
Once you complete the course and pass the required checks, you can legally start working in the industry.
This is an entry-level position, meaning you don’t need any prior security experience. However, you do need to meet a few basic eligibility requirements, including certain qualifications, skills, and training.
Let’s understand all the skills and legal requirements needed to become a security guard in the UK.
Essential Skills to Be a Security Guard
While anyone can apply for a security guard licence, some personal qualities and soft skills can make a big difference in how effective and employable you are.
There are basic skills that employers look for in a security guard, such as:
- Good communication – Speak clearly and listen actively.
- Observation skills – Stay alert and notice unusual behaviour.
- Problem-solving – Make quick decisions under pressure.
- Physical fitness – Handle patrols or physically demanding tasks.
- Professionalism – Be punctual, respectful, and well-presented.
Read our detailed article on: Essential Skills in a Security Guard.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Security Guard in the UK?
To work as a security guard in the UK, you must complete the 4-day SIA Security Guard Training Course from an approved training provider, such as Hurak.
This course is legally required and prepares you for real-world security work across various sectors.
Additionally, you must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work certificate before applying for your SIA licence.
This ensures you’re equipped to deal with common incidents on-site.
Struggling with funding for the SIA training? Check out our article: Free SIA Training in the UK.
Eligibility and Legal Requirements to Become a Security Guard
Before applying for your SIA Security Guard Licence, you must meet a few basic eligibility criteria set by the government.
These ensure you’re legally allowed to work and trusted to take on public safety responsibilities.
Here’s what you need:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work certificate
- Successfully complete the SIA Security Guard Training Course
- Provide a full 5-year address history
- Pass a criminal records check (DBS)
Apply for Your SIA Security Guard Licence
You’ve now understood the key skills, qualifications, and legal requirements needed to become a security guard. So, what’s next?
To officially start working, you’ll need to obtain your SIA Security Guard Licence — this licence proves you’re trained, vetted, and legally allowed to work in the security industry across the UK.
Once all the above steps are completed, the SIA will carry out the necessary background checks. If everything is in order, you’ll receive your Security Guard Licence — valid for three years.
Read our article: A Comprehensive Guide to the SIA Licence Checker
SIA Security Guard Training: Course Content, Assessment & Fees
We’ve taken you through all the eligibility, skills, and legal requirements to become a security guard. But it’s equally important to understand what the actual training course involves, including its content and how you’ll be assessed.
Hurak is an approved training provider offering a government-recognised 4-day SIA Security Guard Training Course across the UK.
Here’s a brief summary of what the course covers:
Course Assessment Criteria
Once you complete the course, you’ll be assessed in two ways:
- Multiple-Choice Exams (2 papers):
Each paper contains 40 questions, with 1 hour to complete each. You must score 70% or above on both to pass. - Practical Assessment:
Your ability to handle real-life scenarios (like reporting or communication) will also be evaluated.
Fees for SIA Security Guard Licence
Now that you know what the course involves and how to pass the assessments, it’s essential to understand the costs involved in getting licensed.
To apply for your SIA Security Guard Licence, you’ll need to pay a standard licence application fee of £184.
This is paid directly to the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and is valid for a period of three years.
However, this isn’t the only cost. You’ll also need to budget for:
- SIA Security Guard Training Course fees (varies by provider and location)
- DBS criminal record check, which is a legal requirement for all applicants
Want a complete breakdown of all costs, including the SIA badge and renewal charges? Read: SIA Badge Cost
Become a Certified Security Guard in Just 4 Days
Hurak’s SIA Security Guard Training helps you meet legal requirements and prepares you for real jobs.
Security Guard Jobs, Career Growth & Earnings
By now, you’ve seen everything it takes to become a licensed security guard in the UK, from the skills and training to the legal steps and course details.
So, what happens once you’ve got your SIA Security Guard Licence?
Once you’ve completed all the steps and received your licence, you’ll be eligible to apply for a variety of security roles across different industries.
The licence is valid for three years, giving you plenty of time to build your experience and explore job opportunities.
Here are some of the roles you can apply for with a valid licence:
- Manned Guarding
- Patrol Officer
- Key-Holder
- Site Security Guard
- Retail Security Officer
- Building Receptionist
- Store Detective
Want a deeper look at the job options available? Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Top SIA Security Jobs
Growth in Security Careers
Your career as a security guard doesn’t have to stop at entry-level. With time, commitment, and the right mindset, you can progress into higher-level roles or explore specialist paths.
Here’s how your journey could evolve:
- With experience, move into supervisory roles or become a Chief Security Officer
- Take further training through a Security First Line Manager apprenticeship
- Become an Area Security Manager or a Close Protection Operative
- Start your own security consultancy or recruitment agency
The career opportunity is not just limited to the ones stated above; with dedication and focus, you can look at progression in this role and explore similar opportunities across the private security sector.
Earnings After Becoming a Security Guard
A full-time security guard in the UK earns, on average, around £2,500 per month. However, salaries vary depending on:
- Your level of experience
- Additional qualifications
- Location of the job
- Employer type (retail, corporate, events, etc.)
With continued growth and added responsibilities, many guards progress into roles that pay significantly more, especially when moving into management or specialist sectors.
Becoming a security guard opens the door to a stable, respected, and growing career path.
Whether you’re just entering the industry or thinking long term, there’s plenty of potential to grow, both in earnings and roles.
Renewing Your SIA Security Guard Licence
As mentioned earlier, your SIA Security Guard Licence remains valid for 3 years from the date of issue.
However, it does not renew automatically. To continue working legally, you must renew your licence before it expires.
Do You Need Top-Up Training?
To renew your licence, you may be required to complete the one-day SIA Top-Up Refresher Training for Security Guards.
This course became a requirement following an update to SIA training standards on 1st October 2021.
Note: If your original SIA Security Guard qualification was completed before 1st October 2021, you must complete the top-up course before renewing your licence.
The updated top-up course includes essential modules such as:
- Conducting effective searches
- Safeguarding vulnerable people on-site
- Duties of a guard during terror-related incidents
How Will You Be Assessed?
To successfully complete the top-up training:
- You must score at least 20 out of 28 on a multiple-choice exam (minimum pass rate: 71%)
- You’ll also be evaluated by your tutor on practical searching techniques
Conclusion:
Working as a security guard may seem simple, given the basic entry requirements. But in reality, the role involves a great deal of responsibility, often under challenging conditions.
Whether it’s managing unpredictable situations or standing for long hours, the job demands both physical and mental resilience.
That said, security work is also a profession where consistent effort and additional training can lead to meaningful career progression. From frontline guarding to supervisory or specialist roles, there’s always potential to grow.
Advance Your Security Career with Hurak
Whether you’re starting or planning your next step, Hurak offers a complete range of security training courses — from SIA Security Guarding to Door Supervision, CCTV Operations to Close Protection and more.
Explore All Courses and build a future-ready career in security.
FAQs
What qualifications do you need to be a security guard UK?
You must be at least 18, hold Emergency First Aid at Work, complete the SIA Security Guard Training Course, and pass a DBS check.
How to be a security guard in the UK with no experience?
Simply enrol on the 4-day SIA Security Guard training, get first aid qualified, apply for your licence, and start applying for roles.
How to get into security work?
Begin by earning your SIA licence: choose an approved provider like Hurak, complete training, pass exams, and apply using your licence to start work.
Is First Aid training mandatory to become a security guard?
Yes, the Emergency First Aid at Work certificate is a legal requirement to apply for your SIA licence.
How much does it cost to get a security guard licence?
The SIA licence costs £184, plus training fees and DBS check; you may also need to pay for the first aid course.
How long does it take to get an SIA security guard licence?
Training takes 4 days; once you apply, the SIA typically processes licence applications within 3–6 weeks.
Can I renew my security guard licence without training?
If your original qualification was earned after 1 October 2021, you can renew without top-up training; if earned earlier, you’ll need the one-day SIA Top-Up Refresher.
What are typical earnings for a security guard in the UK?
A licensed guard typically earns around £2,500/month, with potential to increase through experience, shifts, and supervisory roles.
