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By London Security College

How to Become a Security Guard in the UK

London Security College

May 7, 2025

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How to Become a Security Guard in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re considering becoming a security guard in the UK, you’re not alone. The security industry is growing, and with businesses, supermarkets, corporate offices, construction sites, and entertainment venues all needing protection, there’s plenty of demand for trained security professionals.

But most people don’t realise that when they say they want to be a security guard, they mean a door supervisor.

Why? Because a door supervisor can do everything a security guard can do—and more. If you get a Security Guard Licence, you’re restricted to shops, office buildings, and construction sites. But with a Door Supervisor Licence, you can work in all those places, plus pubs, nightclubs, bars, and events.

That’s why most security professionals choose the Door Supervisor Licence—it gives you more job opportunities, flexibility, and often better pay.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including:

The difference between security guards and door supervisors
The legal requirementsfor getting started
How to get your SIA licence
Training courses and costs
Where to find security jobsand how much they pay
How to progress in the industry

If you’re serious about working in security, keep reading.

Security Guard vs Door Supervisor: What’s the Difference?

Security Guard Licence

Work in retail, corporate offices, warehouses, construction sites
Not allowed to work in pubs, bars, clubs, or any venue that serves alcohol
It is good for those who prefer daytime security jobsor quiet environments

Door Supervisor Licence (Recommended)

It covers everything a security guardcan do, plus jobs in pubs, bars, nightclubs, and festivals
It gives you more job opportunitiesand often higher pay
Ideal for those who want variety and flexibility in their work

If you want more options, go for the Door Supervisor Licence. It doesn’t mean you have to work in nightclubs—you can still take standard security jobs, but you’ll have more choices.

Step 1: Meet the Legal Requirements

To work as a security officer, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Have the right to work in the UK
Pass a criminal record check (DBS check)
Complete an SIA-approved training course
Apply for an SIA Licence

Without an SIA Licence, you cannot legally work in security unless you’re directly employed by a company (which is rare).

Step 2: Complete an SIA-Approved Training Course

Before applying for an SIA Licence, you must complete a government-approved security training course.

Security Guarding Course Includes:

Patrolling and access control
Emergency procedures
Health and Safety
Customer service and dealing with the public
Conflict management

Door Supervisor Course (Recommended) Includes:

Everything in the Security Guarding Course
Plus, Physical Intervention Training(how to safely handle aggressive individuals)

If you’re planning to work in bars, clubs, or anywhere alcohol is served, this physical intervention training is essential.

Most courses take four to six days and are available in-person or online with in-person assessments.

Step 3: Apply for Your SIA Licence

Once you’ve completed your training, you can apply for your SIA Licence online through the official SIA website.

Application fee:£184
Licence validity:Three years
Processing time:Usually two to three weeks, but can take longer if additional checks are needed

You’ll need to provide:

Proof of identity(passport, driving licence)
Proof of right to work in the UK
Your training certificate

It’s a straightforward process, but delays can happen, so apply as soon as you finish your course.

Step 4: Find a Security Job

Once your SIA Licence is approved, you can apply for security jobs.

Where to Find Security Work

Security companies like Mitie, G4S, Securitas, and Bidvest Noonan
Job websites like Indeed, Totaljobs, and Reed
Direct applications to supermarkets, corporate offices, event venues
Local security firms and agencies

How Much Do Security Guards Get Paid?

Security Guard: £11 – £13 per hour
Door Supervisor: £12 – £16 per hour
Event Security (festivals, concerts): £13 – £19 per hour

The more experience you have, the better the pay.

Step 5: Progress Your Career in Security

Once you’ve built some experience, you can move into higher-paid or specialist roles.

Career Progression in Security

CCTV Operator– Monitor security cameras (requires a separate CCTV Licence)
Supervisor/Team Leader– Manage a security team
Security Manager– Oversee security operations for large businesses
Close Protection Officer (Bodyguard)– Work in VIP protection (higher pay, but requires a Close Protection Licence)

Many security guards move into CCTV monitoring because it pays well and involves less physical work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I work as a security guard without an SIA Licence?

No. It is illegal to work in security without an SIA Licence unless you are employed directly by a company, not a security firm.

How long does it take to become a security guard?

Training Course:Four to six days
SIA Licence Application:Two to three weeks
Total Time:Around three to four weeks, but longer if background checks are required

Can I get an SIA Licence with a criminal record?

It depends on the type of offence and how long ago it happened. The SIA reviews applications on a case-by-case basis.

How much does it cost to become a security guard?

Training Course:£150 – £300
SIA Licence Application:£184
Total Cost:Around £350 – £500

What are the working hours for security guards?

Security jobs often involve shift work, including:

Days and nights
Weekends and holidays
Full-time and part-time roles

Many security officers work 8-12 hour shifts, depending on the job.

Is Security a Good Career Choice?

Security is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a stable job with plenty of opportunities. You can work in retail, corporate settings, events, and hospitality; there’s always room for career progression.

Why Choose a Door Supervisor Licence?

More job opportunities
Higher earning potential
More career flexibility

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