SIA Licencing Requirements and Compliance
Introduction
Whether you’re working in retail, healthcare, corporate offices, or construction sites, holding a valid SIA licence is not optional—it’s a legal requirement.
This lesson explains why SIA licencing matters, what’s involved in obtaining and maintaining your licence, and how to stay compliant. It includes real-world examples, UK standards, and the consequences of getting it wrong.
What is the SIA and Why Does It Matter?
SIA = Security Industry Authority
The SIA is the official government regulator for the private security industry in the UK. It was established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to improve standards, protect the public, and ensure security professionals act lawfully and responsibly.
If you work without a valid SIA licence in a licencable role, you are breaking the law.
Roles That Require an SIA Licence
| Role | Licence Required |
|---|---|
| Door Supervisor | Frontline SIA Licence – Door Supervisor |
| Security Guard (Manned Guarding) | Frontline SIA Licence – Security Guard |
| CCTV Operator (Public Space) | Public Space Surveillance (CCTV) |
| Close Protection Officer | Close Protection Licence |
| Vehicle Immobiliser (England & Wales only) | Immobilisation Licence |
| Keyholding/Response Officer | Usually covered by Security Guard or Door Supervisor depending on role |
Note: Supervisors or managers who do not carry out security duties may need a non-frontline licence.
How to Get an SIA Licence (Frontline)
Step-by-Step:
Complete Approved Training
Must be through an SIA-approved training provider (e.g. Door Supervisor Level 2 course)Pass Identity Checks and Criminal Record Check (DBS)
You must disclose any relevant criminal history.Apply Online via SIA Website
Pay the licencing fee (currently £190 for 3 years)Await Decision
Processing usually takes 25–45 working days.
Compliance Standards You Must Follow
| Standard or Law | What You Must Do |
|---|---|
| Private Security Industry Act 2001 | Work only if licenced, renew on time, and never use expired ID |
| BS 7858 – Screening/Vetting | Employers must ensure you pass background and ID checks |
| BS 7499 – Static Site Guarding | Follow professional conduct, patrol and reporting standards |
| NSI Codes of Practice | Employers and officers must maintain high-quality operational and compliance standards |
| SIA Licensing Conditions | Carry your licence visibly (unless exempt), report changes (e.g. address, convictions) |
Your Ongoing Responsibilities as a Licence Holder
Carry your licence while on duty (unless exempt – e.g. undercover store detectives)
Inform the SIA of changes in name, address, or criminal status
Renew your licence before it expires (SIA no longer sends paper reminders)
Work only in roles covered by your licence (e.g. Door Supervisor can also do security guarding, but not vice versa)
Real-World Example
Scenario:
Ali is a licenced Door Supervisor working in a shopping centre. His licence expires on 10th July, but he forgets to renew. On 15th July, he is inspected by an SIA compliance officer and cannot provide a valid licence.
Consequences:
Ali is removed from the site immediately
His employer may face fines or lose contracts
Ali could receive a criminal conviction or licence ban
The client may cancel the entire security contract
SIA Enforcement and Compliance Checks
SIA carries out random inspections, often:
At nightclubs, retail parks, hospitals, and shopping centres
Alongside police or local authority licencing teams
During ACS audits (Approved Contractor Scheme inspections)
You may be asked to:
Show your licence
Provide ID
Answer questions about your training and duties
Tip: Always act professionally. Inspectors often report on officer behaviour to employers.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
| Offence | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Working without a licence | Up to 6 months’ imprisonment and/or £5,000 fine |
| Employing unlicenced staff | Up to 5 years’ imprisonment and/or unlimited fine |
| Forging an SIA licence | Criminal charges, police investigation, and lifetime ban |
| Failing to carry/display licence | Warning, removal from site, or fine |
Did You Know?
In 2024, over 3,000 enforcement actions were taken against unlicenced officers in the UK
Security firms that hire unlicenced staff risk losing SIA Approved Contractor (ACS) status
Your SIA licence is your personal responsibility—not just your employer’s
