What Is an SIA Licence? A Guide for Clients

Who the SIA is

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the body that regulates the private security industry in the UK under the Private Security Industry Act 2001. It sets the training and checks people must complete before they can work in licensed security roles, and it issues the licences.

Which roles need a licence

A front line SIA licence is needed for specific types of security work. The ones clients most often come across are:

• Door supervision: security at licensed premises such as bars, pubs and clubs, including controlling entry.
• Security guarding: guarding premises against unauthorised access, damage or disorder, and guarding property against theft.
• Public space surveillance (CCTV): monitoring public areas with CCTV for a client.
• Close protection: protecting a person from assault or injury.
• Cash and valuables in transit, and key holding.

What getting a licence involves

Applicants complete approved training and a qualification for the role, pass identity and criminality checks, and show they have the right to work in the UK. Since April 2021, people training for door supervision or security guarding must also hold an emergency first aid at work qualification, or an equivalent, before they start their training.

Front line licences normally last three years and then need to be renewed. A door supervisor licence also allows the holder to carry out security guarding work.

How to check a licence

Licensed operatives are generally required to wear their licence where it can be seen while working. You can check any licence on the SIA’s public register of licence holders on GOV.UK by entering the licence number or the holder’s name. It shows the licence type, its expiry date and whether it is active.

It is reasonable to ask your security provider for the licence details of the people they send, and to check them before or on the day.

Why it matters to you

Working in a licensable role without a licence is a criminal offence, and so is supplying unlicensed people to do that work. For licensed premises, using properly licensed door supervisors is also usually a condition of your premises licence.

Beyond the law, the licence tells you that the person has completed recognised training in areas such as conflict management, their legal powers and responding to emergencies.