Getting your SIA licence is your gateway to working legally in the UK’s thriving private security industry. Whether you’ve just completed your training or you’re planning ahead, understanding the application process can feel overwhelming. How much will it cost? How long will it take? What if you have a criminal record?
This comprehensive guide will answer all those questions and more. We’ll walk you through eligibility requirements, the step-by-step application process, costs, timelines, renewal procedures, and common mistakes to avoid. We’ll also explain the December 2025 regulatory changes and what they mean for you.
Key Insights
- The SIA licence is mandatory for all licensable security roles in the UK—working without one is a criminal offence
- Eligibility requirements include being 18+, having the right to work in the UK, completing SIA-approved training, and passing a criminal record check
- December 2025 regulatory changes introduced stricter vetting for criminal records, especially for sexual, child-related, and domestic abuse offences
- The application process is done online through the SIA website and involves identity verification at a Post Office and a DBS check
- Cost is £184 for a 3-year licence, separate from your training fees
- The timeline is typically 4-6 weeks from application to receiving your licence
- Renewals must be done up to 4 months before expiry and require mandatory refresher training
Am I Eligible for an SIA Licence?
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, especially with the stricter requirements introduced in December 2025.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
The SIA has clear minimum requirements that all applicants must meet. Understanding these upfront saves time and prevents wasted application fees.
Age and Right to Work
You must be at least 18 years old and have the legal right to work in the UK. You’ll need to provide documentation like a valid passport, UK driving licence, or biometric residence permit.
Training Requirements
For most licences (door supervisor, security guard, CCTV operator), you must complete the relevant SIA-approved training course. For a close protection licence, the requirements are more stringent, often requiring previous experience in security or law enforcement.
Need help choosing a course? Read our complete guide: The Ultimate Guide to Passing Your SIA Training in 2025
You must have completed an SIA-approved training course within the last three years. Your training certificate number is required for the application. If your certificate is older than three years, you’ll need to retake the full course. Haven’t completed your training yet? Book your door supervisor training or CCTV operator training now.
Criminal Record Checks
All applicants undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but certain offences will result in refusal. See the “Understanding the DBS Criminal Record Check” section below for detailed information on how this works and what to expect.
Mental Health Considerations
The SIA may request a mental health report if you disclose certain conditions on your application. This doesn’t automatically disqualify you—the SIA simply needs to assess whether your condition could affect your ability to work safely in security.
Conditions that may trigger a mental health assessment include severe depression or anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or psychotic disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders.
If you’re asked to provide a mental health report, your GP or psychiatrist will complete a standard form assessing your current mental state, treatment and medication, and ability to perform security duties safely. The SIA will review this alongside your application.
Being honest about mental health conditions is important. The SIA is assessing risk, not discriminating. Many people with mental health conditions successfully obtain SIA licences and work effectively in security.
Appeals Process
If your SIA licence application is refused, you have the right to appeal. You have 21 days from the date of the decision to submit an appeal to the SIA. Your appeal must be in writing and should clearly state the grounds for your appeal. If the SIA upholds its decision, you can then appeal to a Magistrates’ or Sheriff’s Court.
Overseas Criminal Record Checks
If you’ve lived outside the UK for 6 continuous months or more in the last 10 years (extended from 5 years in the December 2025 update), you must provide a criminal record check from each country you lived in.
Obtaining overseas criminal record checks can be complex. Each country has different processes, timescales, and costs. Some countries provide checks quickly and cheaply, while others take months and charge substantial fees.
Tips for obtaining overseas checks:
- Start early—some countries take 3-6 months to process requests
- Use official channels—the SIA provides guidance on approved methods for each country
- Budget appropriately—costs range from £30-£150+ per country
- Get certified translations if documents aren’t in English
- Keep copies of all correspondence and documentation
If you’re unable to obtain a check from a particular country (for example, if the country doesn’t issue them to foreign nationals), contact the SIA for guidance. They may accept alternative evidence or make exceptions in specific circumstances.
The Step-by-Step SIA Licence Application Process
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 1: Create Your SIA Online Account
Go to the SIA website and create a personal online account. You’ll need a valid email address. This account is where you’ll manage your application, renewals, and personal details.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Log in to your account and start a new application. The form is comprehensive and requires accurate information.
Personal Details Section: Provide your full legal name (exactly as it appears on your ID documents), current address and full 5-year address history, date and place of birth, National Insurance number, and contact details (email and phone number).
Training Certificate Section: Enter your SIA training certificate number (found on your certificate), the date you completed training, and the training provider’s name. Double-check this information—errors here cause significant delays.
Criminal Convictions Section: Declare all convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings, even if they’re spent. Provide the date of each offence, the nature of the offence, and the sentence or outcome. Be honest—the DBS check will reveal your history anyway.
Overseas Residence Section: If you’ve lived abroad for 6+ months in the last 10 years, declare each country and the dates you lived there. You’ll need to upload your overseas criminal record checks later in the process.
Declaration: Read the declaration carefully and confirm that all information is true and accurate. Providing false information is grounds for automatic refusal and may result in criminal prosecution.
Save your progress: The application system allows you to save and return later if you need to gather additional information.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The SIA licence application fee is £184 for a 3-year licence. You can pay online with a debit or credit card. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
Step 4: Visit the Post Office for Identity Verification
Once you’ve paid, you’ll receive instructions to visit a UK Post Office to verify your identity. You’ll need to bring:
- Your SIA application reference number
- Original copies of your identity documents (passport, driving licence, etc.)
- A recent passport-style photograph
The Post Office will take your photograph, check your documents, and take your electronic signature.
Step 5: Wait for Your Licence to Be Processed
The SIA will now conduct its checks, including your DBS criminal record check. This is the longest part of the process, typically taking 4-6 weeks.
You can track the progress of your application through your SIA online account. The status will update as it moves through each stage: “Awaiting Docs”, “Checks in Progress”, “Decision Made”, and “Licence Printed”.
Step 6: Receive Your SIA Licence
Once your application is approved, your SIA licence card will be printed and posted to your home address. You can now legally work in your licensed security role.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an SIA Licence?
Understanding the full cost breakdown helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises. The total cost varies depending on your training provider, whether you need overseas criminal record checks, and which course you choose.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
| SIA Training Course | £199.99 – £259.99+ | Varies by provider and course type |
| EFAW Certificate | £50 – £100 | Train4Security includes EFAW in all courses at no extra cost |
| SIA Licence Application Fee | £184 | Non-refundable |
| Post Office ID Check | £10 – £15 | Varies by Post Office |
| Overseas Criminal Record Check | £50 – £150+ | Per country, plus translation fees |
| Total (Typical UK Resident) | £444 – £599 |
Important note: The SIA licence fee (£184) is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying to avoid wasting money. If you’ve lived abroad recently, factor in additional time and cost for overseas criminal record checks.
Renewing Your SIA Licence
Your SIA licence is valid for three years. You can apply to renew it up to four months before it expires. The process is similar to your initial application, but with one key difference: mandatory refresher training.
Mandatory Refresher Training
As of 1 April 2025, all licence renewals require completion of mandatory refresher training. This ensures your skills are up-to-date with the latest industry standards and regulations. Train4Security offers one-day refresher courses for both door supervisors and security guards.
Your SIA licence is valid for three years. You can apply to renew it up to four months before it expires.
The Renewal Process
- Complete refresher training: You must complete mandatory refresher training before you can renew. Your old top-up certificate is no longer valid.
- Log in to your SIA account: Start a renewal application.
- Update your details: Confirm your personal information is still correct.
- Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee is £184.
- Wait for approval: Renewal processing is usually quicker than initial applications, but apply early to avoid a gap in licensing.
Do not let your licence expire. If it does, you cannot legally work, and you may need to reapply from scratch.
Common SIA Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect personal details: Mismatched names or addresses will cause delays.
- Not declaring all convictions: The DBS check will find them anyway. Be honest.
- Using expired documents: Check your passport and driving licence expiry dates.
- Poor quality photograph: Use a clear, passport-style photo.
- Applying too late for renewal: Start the renewal process 4 months before expiry.
Getting an SIA Licence with a Criminal Record
Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically mean you can’t work in security. Understanding how the SIA assesses criminal history—and what you can do to strengthen your application—gives you the best chance of success
Understanding the DBS Criminal Record Check
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a crucial part of your SIA licence application. Understanding how it works helps you prepare and avoid surprises. The DBS check reveals your criminal record history, including convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. The SIA uses this information to assess whether you’re a “fit and proper” person to hold a licence.
Important: Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you. The SIA considers the nature of the offence, how long ago it occurred, evidence of rehabilitation, and whether the offence is relevant to security work.
Minor offences from many years ago are unlikely to cause problems, especially if you’ve demonstrated good character since. However, serious offences—particularly those involving violence, dishonesty, sexual offences, or drugs—will be scrutinised carefully.
If you’re unsure whether your criminal record will affect your application, you can request a basic DBS check yourself before applying. This costs around £25 and shows what will appear on your SIA check.
What If I Have a Criminal Record?
If you have a criminal record, honesty is essential. The DBS check will reveal your history anyway, and failing to declare convictions is grounds for automatic refusal.
When completing your application, declare all convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Provide context where appropriate—for example, if the offence was many years ago and you’ve since demonstrated rehabilitation.
If your offence falls into one of the stricter refusal categories (absolute refusal or intention to refuse), consider seeking legal advice before applying. A solicitor experienced in SIA licensing can advise on your chances of success and help you present your case effectively.
Spent Convictions and the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act
Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, some convictions become “spent” after a certain period. However, security work is an exempt profession, meaning spent convictions must still be declared and will still appear on your DBS check.
The SIA will consider spent convictions when assessing your application, but they may carry less weight than recent offences, particularly if you’ve demonstrated good character since.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It’s illegal to work in a licensable security role without a valid SIA licence. You must wait until you receive your physical licence card.
Contact the SIA immediately. Small errors can usually be corrected, but significant mistakes may delay processing or result in refusal.
Yes, but you’ll need separate training certificates and must pay separate application fees for each licence type.
Log in to your SIA online account. The status will update as your application progresses through each stage.
You’ll receive a letter explaining the reason for the refusal. Depending on the refusal category, you may be able to appeal. The £184 fee is non-refundable.
Only if you plan to work in security in the future. If you let your licence lapse, you’ll need to reapply from scratch (including new training if your certificate has expired).
Yes. Your SIA licence is valid throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Act Now: Your SIA Licence Is Within Reach
Navigating the SIA licensing process can seem complex, but by following this guide, you can approach it with confidence. From meeting the eligibility criteria and completing your training to submitting a flawless application, every step is manageable when you know what to expect.
Remember to be honest and thorough in your application, especially regarding criminal convictions and overseas residence. The SIA’s primary goal is to ensure public safety, and transparency is key.
Once you have your licence, a rewarding career in the UK’s thriving security industry awaits. Whether you choose to work in bustling city centres, at major events, or in corporate environments, your SIA licence is your passport to a stable and fulfilling profession.
Ready to take the first step? If you haven’t completed your training yet, Train4Security offers SIA-approved courses across 100+ UK locations. With our all-inclusive pricing, 2 FREE exam retakes, and expert support, we make it easy to get qualified.
Find your nearest training location and book your SIA course today – your future in UK security starts now.
