What is the Difference between Frontline and Non-Frontline SIA Licence

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Aliza Hasnain

July 23, 20265 min read

In the UK, a career in the security industry requires specific qualifications to ensure that individuals are trained and legally compliant. One of the most important qualifications is the SIA licence issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

The SIA ensures high standards within the private security industry, protecting public safety and security professionals.

There are two main categories of SIA licences: frontline and non-frontline. Understanding the difference between the two is important for anyone pursuing a career in security.

What is an SIA Licence?

An SIA licence is an official certification that shows an individual is qualified to perform security duties for businesses, organisations, or private clients. The SIA, a government-backed authority tasked with regulating the security industry, issued the licence.

An individual must legally hold the appropriate licence to work in any security-related role in the UK. The SIA licence covers various security positions, including close protection, security guarding, and CCTV operation.

There are several types of SIA licences, each corresponding to specific roles in the security sector. Understanding the primary categoriesfrontline and non-frontlineis key to determining which licence is necessary for your role.

What is a Frontline SIA Licence?

A frontline SIA licence is required for individuals directly involved in security activities. This includes roles that involve physical security tasks such as patrolling, monitoring alarms, manning doors, or interacting with the public in a security capacity.

Some common types of frontline SIA licences include:

Door Supervisor Licence: Required for individuals working at the entrance of venues like pubs, clubs, or other entertainment establishments. The role often involves checking IDs, ensuring the safety of patrons, and managing crowd control.
Close Protection Licence: For professionals who provide personal security to individuals such as celebrities, high-profile businesspeople, or government officials.
Public Surveillance Using CCTV: Required for those who monitor surveillance systems in control rooms.

Key Points About Frontline Licences

Direct Involvement in Security Work: Frontline workers actively carry out security-related duties.
Visibility: Frontline licences must be worn visibly while on duty. This helps to demonstrate that the individual is qualified for the role.
Training Requirement: To obtain a frontline licence, you must complete an SIA-approved training course specific to the role.

What is a Non-Frontline SIA Licence?

A non-frontline SIA licence is for individuals who oversee or manage security operations but do not directly participate in security duties themselves. These roles are generally managerial or supervisory in nature.

Examples of individuals who may require a non-frontline license include:

Security Managers: Individuals who oversee the overall security operations for a company or venue.
Supervisors: Those who manage teams of security personnel but do not engage in security duties directly.
Employers: Individuals running security firms or businesses that employ security guards.

Non-frontline SIA licences come in the form of a letter rather than a card and do not need to be displayed while working.

Key Points About Non-Frontline Licences

Supervisory and Managerial Roles: Non-frontline licence holders manage and supervise security staff but do not perform hands-on security work.
No Display Requirement: Unlike frontline licences, non-frontline licences do not need to be shown publicly while working.
No Mandatory Training: There are no specific training requirements for obtaining a non-frontline SIA licence, although applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.

Main Differences Between Frontline and Non-Frontline Licences

Feature	Frontline SIA Licence	Non-Frontline SIA Licence
Role	Direct involvement in security duties (e.g., patrolling, door supervision)	Supervisory or managerial roles (e.g., security manager, supervisor)
Licence Type	Issued as a card that must be worn visibly	Issued as a letter, no need to display
Required for	Security guards, door supervisors, close protection officers, CCTV operators	Security managers, supervisors, employers
Training Requirements	Must complete SIA-approved training for the role	No specific training requirements
Tasks Allowed	Perform physical security tasks (e.g., patrolling, handling alarms)	Manage or oversee security operations

Stay safe, stay qualified, and get the right certification to make your security career a success!

SIA licences are for different security jobs like door supervisors, security guards, and CCTV operators. The Door Supervisor Licence manages crowds and entrances, while the Security Guard Licence protects property. If you work with surveillance cameras, you need a CCTV Operator Licence. Taking the right SIA courses will prepare you for the job and help you get licensed easily.

Which Licence Do You Need?

The type of SIA licence you need depends entirely on the nature of the security work you will be performing. If your role involves direct interaction with the public or engaging in physical security activities, you will need a frontline SIA licence.

However, a non-frontline SIA licence is required if you will be working in a supervisory or managerial capacity, overseeing those involved in frontline security duties.

For example, you need a frontline licence if you are employed as a door supervisor. But if you manage a team of door supervisors, you need a non-frontline licence.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between frontline and non-frontline SIA licences is essential when entering the UK security industry. Frontline licences are required for individuals who perform direct security tasks, while non-frontline licences are for those in managerial or supervisory roles.

Choosing the correct licence will ensure you comply with UK law and help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your security career. If you want to pursue an SIA license, carefully review the requirements for your role and choose the appropriate certification.