How to Become a Security Guard in the UK (2025 Guide)

Thinking about a career as a security guard for 2025? You’re coming into the field at the perfect time.

With a growing demand for qualified security professionals across the UK, it is a perfect time to consider a career in the security industry.

Employers are seeking to hire trained security guards to help keep people safe, guard assets and control crowds at construction sites, retail stores, transportation hubs and public event venues.

If you’re new to the workforce, looking to switch career paths or trying to find a more secure job, security work has a lot to offer -flexible schedules, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work in different 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

Wondering how to become a security guard? The first step is to meet the legal and training requirements established by the UK government. 

To work as a professional security guard at retail outlets, building sites, office blocks or public events, you need a valid SIA Security Guard Licence.

This licence is issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the official regulatory body for the UK’s private security industry. To be eligible, you’ll need to complete a government-approved training course with an approved provider such as Hurak. 

Once you complete the course and pass the required checks you can legally start to work in the industry.

This is an entry level position so you do not need any previous experience in security. But you have to meet a few basic eligibility requirements. That includes some 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.

Not sure if you meet the skills needed to become a security guard?
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)

If you have a past conviction and are unsure if you can apply, check out our article: Can I Get an SIA Licence With a Criminal Record?

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.

Want to check the status or expiry of your current SIA licence?
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 204.

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.

Book Your Course with Hurak Today

Security Guard Jobs, Career Growth & Earnings

By now, you’ve seen everything it takes to get a license as a security guard in the UK, including the skills and training needed, the legal steps and the course details. 

So what do you do once you’ve got your SIA Security Guard Licence?

Once you have completed all the steps and received your licence you will be able to apply for a range of security roles in a variety of industries.  The licence lasts for three years, which is ample time to gain experience and look at different 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 previously mentioned, your SIA Security Guard Licence is valid for a period of 3 years from the date of issue.However, it does not automatically renew. You must renew your licence before it expires to continue to work legally. 

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 as the entry requirements are simple.But in reality, the job entails a lot of responsibility, often under difficult conditions.The job requires physical and mental endurance, whether it’s dealing with unpredictable situations or standing for long hours.

That being said, security work is also a profession that can offer meaningful career progression through consistent effort and additional training.There’s always scope to move from front line guarding into supervisory or specialist roles.

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 204, 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 36 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.