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June 19, 2026
6 min read
If you want to work in the UK security industry, getting a security license badge and renewing it has a predetermined cost. Being well-informed about the expenses of receiving an SIA licence or badge will help you process your application smoothly without delays.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is an organisation that oversees and regulates the private security industry in the UK. It was established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to reduce crime, improve standards, and ensure high-quality service within the industry.
To work in security, you need an SIA license, which qualifies you for roles such as security guard, door supervisor, CCTV operator, or close protection officer. The license ensures you are properly trained and qualified to perform your duties. Each role requires a specific license, so choosing the one that matches your career goals is important. SIA licenses are valid for three years.
Working in front-line security roles in the UK is illegal without completing the SIA training course and the SIA license process.
Your first SIA license costs 204, valid for 3 years. Before applying, you'll need to complete compulsory training, which can vary in cost depending on the licence type and training provider.
If you already have an SIA license, you can get a 50% discount when applying for a license in a different sector. For example, if you have a Door Supervisor Licence and want to apply for a CCTV Licence, you'll only pay 102 if your Door Supervisor license has more than 4 months left. This discount doesn't apply to renewals within the same sector.
SIA Licence Type | Roles Covered | Cost | Validity | Requirements |
Door Supervisor Licence | Door supervision at events, bars, nightclubs, and security guarding | '204 | 3 years | Door supervisor training course, first aid qualification, and criminal record check |
Security Guard Licence | Static guarding, retail security, and similar roles | '204 | 3 years | Security guard training course and criminal record check |
CCTV Licence | Operating CCTV systems in public spaces (Public Space Surveillance) | '204 | 3 years | CCTV operator course and criminal record check |
Close Protection Licence | Bodyguard and close protection operative roles | 204 | 3 years | Close protection training course and criminal record check |
A background check, including criminal history and identity verification, is required for the SIA application process. This cost is usually included in the application fee. However, additional charges of 20-40 may apply if your application involves checks for foreign residency.
The fee for renewing your SIA licence every three years remains 204. If your licence card is lost or damaged, you must pay a 36 fee for a replacement.
Whether you're training as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard, or in Close Protection, knowing the fees and requirements helps you plan. Explore our SIA courses, including CCTV Operator training, to get qualified and advance your career!
Getting your SIA Door Supervisor License is simple when you follow these steps:
Pass the Door Supervisor Course
The first step is to complete a training course. To help prepare, you can take our free SIA Licence Training Mock Exam.
Complete the Licence Application on the SIA Website
The application costs 204. The SIA will review it and get back to you within 25 working days, though it can sometimes take up to 6 weeks.
Complete Identity Checks
Verify your identity by showing your photo ID. You can do this at the Post Office or have a British passport holder not related to you sign the back of your photo ID.
Submit Your Application
The SIA will check your identity and criminal record. You may need to provide additional documents if you have lived abroad for six months or more.
Receive Your 3-Year License.
Once approved, you will get your SIA Door Supervisor License in the mail, valid for 3 years.
We are applying for all SIA Licenses on your behalf. Visit our SIA License page and contact us now.
Renewing your SIA License is usually simple, but sometimes you might need extra training, depending on when you got your qualification.
You do not need extra training if:
Your qualification was awarded after April 2021.
Your certificate says "[Awarding body name] Level 2 Award in Door Supervision (QCF)".
If you need extra training, pass a refresher course such as 'Top-Up Training for Door Supervisors' before renewing your license. You can start the renewal process four months before your license expires, but the new license will start only after your current one expires.
The SIA is responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK. It was created under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to reduce crime, improve standards, and ensure high-quality service in the security sector.
Your first SIA license costs 204, valid for three years. You'll also need to complete compulsory training, which varies in cost depending on the type of licence and training provider.
If you already hold an SIA license, you can get a 50% discount when applying for an additional license in a different sector. For example, if you have a Door Supervisor License and want a CCTV License, you'll pay only 102 if your current license is still valid for more than 4 months.
A background check, including criminal history and identity verification, is part of the application process and is usually covered by the 204 fee. However, additional charges of 20-40 may apply if foreign residency checks are needed.
The fee for renewing your SIA license every three years is 204. If your license card is lost or damaged, the replacement fee is 36.
To apply, you must complete the Door Supervisor training course, submit an application on the SIA website, and pass identity and background checks. Once approved, you will receive your license in the mail, valid for three years.
If your qualification was awarded after April 2021 and includes the certificate [Awarding body name] Level 2 Award in Door Supervision (QCF), you won't need extra training. However, if additional training is required, you can complete a refresher course before renewing your licence.
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In summary, getting your first SIA license costs 204 and is valid for 3 years. You will also need to complete the required training, which can vary in price. If you already have an SIA licence, you can get a 50% discount when applying for a licence in a different sector. Other costs to remember include background check fees and a 36 charge if your licence card is lost or damaged. Knowing these costs will help you plan and avoid delays in getting or renewing your SIA licence.
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