What is vehicle immobilisation?

Vehicle immobilisation acts include:

• Moving a vehicle (by any means)
• Restricting the movement of a vehicle (including attaching any device to prevent movement)
• Releasing any so moved or restricted vehicle

All of these actions require licenses. Also, the exchange of money for any of these actions is not permitted unless the person carrying them out has a full license.

Vehicle immobilisation limitations can only apply when a vehicle is not on a road as detailed by the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Who needs a vehicle immobiliser license?

Though certain exemptions exist, (as detailed in the Private Security Industry Act of 2001; see paragraphs 2 and 3A of schedule 2), the requirement of a license applies to anyone carrying out vehicle immobilisation activities. (The limitations and regulations as detailed by the SIA, however, do not apply to Scotland).

For those physically and directly involved in the immobilisation of vehicles – be it movement or restriction – a front-line licence is required. This is a small identity card that must be worn and prominently displayed, subject to licence conditions.

For supervisors, employers or managers, a non front-line licence is required. Rather than a card, this will be delivered in letter format, also detailing the responsibilities and tasks of a non front-line licence holder; participation in front-line activities is not permitted by those holding a non front-line licence.

Individuals holding non front-line licenses are permitted to carry out non front-line activities in areas other than their primary focus. For example, the director of a vehicle immobilisation firm would not need to apply for an additional license were they to supply door supervisors, since the supplying of employees is also a non front-line activity, and within the general realms of security work.

Licenses cost £245 and will grant a year’s work in front-line activities, or three year’s work in non front-line activities. This is not refundable. For employers purchasing licenses for employees, there should be no tax or National Insurance liability. For employees purchasing for themselves, you can claim tax relief against your taxable income, (eg, the basic rate of tax will merit you £49). For more details, visit the HMRC website

Required qualifications for a vehicle immobilisation license:

All vehicle immobilisers are required to have a Level 2 Award in Vehicle Immobilisation, (examining body: Edexcel – 0845 576 0026). If you are simply looking to renew your licence, a qualification older than three years is very much acceptable, granted that your last licence ran out no more than three years ago. In this instance, you must renew your qualification before submitting another application.