If you want to work in the private security industry, obtaining an SIA Licence in the UK is a legal requirement. Whether you are aiming to become a security guard, door supervisor or CCTV operator, your SIA licence is the foundation of your career.
At Circle UK Group, we work with licensed professionals across multiple sectors including construction, corporate security, logistics and infrastructure. Understanding how the SIA licensing process works is the first step towards entering a regulated and structured industry.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the SIA Licence in 2026, including licence types, application steps, costs and requirements.
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An SIA Licence is an official authorisation issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry across the United Kingdom.
The SIA was established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to ensure that individuals working in frontline security roles meet nationally recognised standards. Without a valid SIA licence, it is illegal to work in most regulated security positions in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The licence demonstrates that the holder has completed approved training, passed background checks and met suitability criteria set by the Home Office.
👉The official SIA website can be accessed at https://www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk.
If you work in frontline security, you almost certainly require an SIA Licence. This includes roles such as security guarding, door supervision, CCTV operation, close protection and key holding.
The requirement applies to individuals working in retail security, construction site guarding, corporate buildings, events, licensed premises and many other environments where public safety and asset protection are essential.
Employers cannot legally deploy unlicensed operatives in regulated roles. Holding a valid SIA licence is therefore both a legal obligation and a professional necessity.
There are several types of SIA licences depending on the role you intend to perform.
The Security Guard Licence is suitable for static guarding roles such as offices, warehouses and construction sites. The Door Supervisor Licence allows you to work in security guarding as well as licensed premises and is the most versatile option for new entrants. The CCTV Operator Licence is required for those working in surveillance and control room environments.
Each licence requires specific training linked to the duties of the role. Choosing the correct licence depends on your intended career path and the sectors you wish to work in.
Full licence details are listed on the SIA website.
The process of applying for an SIA Licence involves several structured steps.
The first stage is completing SIA-approved training with an accredited provider. The training covers industry regulations, conflict management and, where applicable, physical intervention techniques. Emergency First Aid at Work certification is mandatory before beginning licence-linked training.
Once training is successfully completed, you must submit your application through the official GOV.UK website at https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-sia-licence. The application requires identity verification, submission of documentation and payment of the licence fee.
The SIA then conducts criminal record and background checks to assess suitability. Processing times generally range from two to six weeks, depending on application volume and individual circumstances.
If approved, you will receive your SIA Licence badge, which must be displayed while working in regulated roles unless specific conditions apply.
The standard SIA Licence fee is £184 and is valid for three years. This fee is set by the Security Industry Authority and applies across the UK.
In addition to the licence fee, applicants must pay for training, which typically ranges between £150 and £250 depending on the provider and location.
While there is an initial investment, the SIA Licence opens access to regulated employment opportunities across a wide range of sectors. It also provides a structured entry point into long-term career development within the security industry.
To qualify for an SIA Licence in the UK, you must be at least 18 years old and have the legal right to work in the country. You must complete approved training and pass criminality and identity checks conducted by the SIA.
The Authority assesses each applicant against suitability criteria designed to protect public safety and maintain professional standards across the industry.
Meeting these requirements ensures that licensed operatives demonstrate accountability, professionalism and compliance with national regulations.
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An SIA Licence is more than a legal formality. It is a recognised professional credential within the UK security sector.
For employers, it provides assurance that an individual has met regulated standards. For clients, it demonstrates trust and accountability. For professionals, it forms the basis of career progression into supervisory and management roles.
At Circle UK Group, we prioritise licensed, trained and competent security professionals because regulatory compliance and operational standards are fundamental to delivering reliable security services.
At Circle UK Group, we work with security professionals across corporate, construction and infrastructure environments. We understand that obtaining your SIA Licence is only the beginning of your career.
We support individuals through structured development pathways, operational mentoring and opportunities to gain experience across different sectors. Professional growth, compliance and continuous improvement remain central to our approach.
If you are considering applying for an SIA Licence in the UK and want guidance on the next steps, training pathways or career opportunities, our team can help.
Building a professional future in security begins with the right information and the right support.
Contact us today to discuss your SIA Licence journey and explore opportunities with Circle UK Group.
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