Acquiring a security guard licence is relatively straight forward. The name given to a security guard licence is the SIA licence which is the governing body who authorises who is eligible to be a qualified security guard.

To apply for a security guard licence you will first need to complete a security guard training course which is available through a number of reputable training providers throughout the country. The SIA-Licence.org.uk website displays a number of advertised training providers who all offer fantastic levels of training across all levels of security guard disciplines. Whether you are looking to become a retail security guard or possible a static security guard. The training you receive can be tailored to suit the type of security guard training you desire.

The security guard training course usually consists of classroom based studying and an examination to test your knowledge. These courses can cost between £100-£150 however once this is completed you will never have to retrain again unless you want to move onto a further level within the security sector.

If you are successful and pass your security examination then you will be ready to apply for your security guard licence or more commonly known the sia licence. You will have to do this within a three year period of passing your security guard training course or it will become invalid. The cost of the licence is £245 which covers you to work across any security discipline and is valid for three years. After three years you will have to reapply for the licence. The SIA is currently going through changes however and may change into a different security organisation. The cost of reinstating your licence may drop however at the moment it’s still £245 every three years.

This application process can take anything between 7 and 28 days. Once you have been successful in your licence application you will be fully eligible to become a security guard. This licence must be displayed at all times when working and it will be essential for acquiring new employment within the security sector.