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The SIA Close Protection Licence allows the holder to legally work as a bodyguard or close protection operative in the United Kingdom.
Call us to bookThe Close Protection Licence opens up highly paying opportunities to work as a bodyguard or close protection operative for VIPs, celebrities, or high net worth individuals in the UK. It is issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and is valid for 3 years. With this licence, you can earn up to £5,000 per month.
The Close Protection Licence holders need to manage intense situations and the risk of attacks. They protect important people like politicians, celebrities, and sports stars.
Yes, you need a Close Protection Licence if you want to work as a bodyguard or close protection operative in the United Kingdom, and your job involves carrying out any licensable activities.
To get a Close Protection Licence, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Step 1: Pass the Level 3 SIA Close Protection Training Course
To get a Close Protection Licence, you must enrol on and pass the Close Protection Training Course. This course usually takes 16 to 19 days to complete. To complete the course, you must pass MCQ-based tests and practical assessments.
You can take our free SIA Licence Training Mock Exam to prepare for the assessment.
Step 2: Complete the SIA Licence Application
Please go to the SIA website and complete the online application for the Close Protection Licence. Include your personal information, qualifications, and work history on the SIA application form. Expect to hear back from SIA within 25 working days, but it might take up to 5 weeks in certain situations.
Step 3: Complete Identity Checks
You must verify your identity at the nearest Post Office branch. Bring your application reference number and required documents. After verification, the Post Office sends materials to the SIA on your behalf.
Step 4: Wait for the SIA to Complete Identity and Criminal Background Checks
SIA will take some time to complete identity and criminal background checks. You might need to provide additional documents if you’ve lived outside the UK for over six months.
Step 5: Receive Your Close Protection
You will receive your Close Protection Licence in the post.
Read our blog, “A Step-By-Step Guide to Getting an SIA Licence”, to learn more about applying for an SIA licence.
The SIA Close Protection Licence application fee is £204, which is non-refundable. If you already have an SIA license and wish to apply for another one, you are eligible for a 50% discount.
If you're funding your SIA Close Protection Licence personally, you can save money by claiming tax relief, typically around £44 at the basic rate.
The SIA Close Protection Licence is valid for 3 years. You must renew your SIA licence when it expires to stay compliant and continue working in the UK security industry.
Some SIA Licences require taking refresher courses for licence renewal, but you do not need it for Close Protection Licence renewal. All you need to do is visit the SIA website, re-apply for your SIA licence and pay a fee of £204.
Read our blog “Stay SIA Licensed: Your Guide to SIA Licence Renewal” to learn about the SIA licence renewal process.
Apply for licence renewal up to 4 months before your current one ends. The new licence will only take effect once your current SIA licence expires. To check if your SIA licence is valid or when it will expire, use SIA Licence Checker.
SIA allows individuals who meet the licensing criteria for one activity to also engage in other related licensable activities. For example, Close Protection Licence holders can also work as Security Guards or Door Supervisors.
Read our blog, “A Comprehensive Guide to Top SIA Security Jobs”, for detailed insights into various security job roles.
SIA issues several SIA Licences for different security jobs. Check the most popular SIA licences below:
Yes, if you already have an SIA licence in a different category and are getting an additional licence in another category, you qualify for a 50% discount. For instance, if you hold a SIA Security Guard Licence and apply for a Close Protection Licence, you will only pay half the fee.
During the application process, the SIA verifies the applicant’s identity and conducts a criminal background check through a DBS check.
The SIA Close Protection Licence costs a non-refundable fee of £204, which is paid directly to SIA. If you already have an SIA licence in a separate category, you’re eligible for a 50% discount.
The SIA Close Protection Licence makes you eligible for roles such as a Close Protection Officer or bodyguard. With these roles, you can provide security for notable personalities like celebrities.
Yes, the SIA Close Protection Licence requires renewal. The renewal period typically occurs every three years.
Yes, SIA gives you the option to appeal if your Close Protection Licence application is denied. You can visit the SIA official website to find details on how to initiate an appeal.
The SIA takes around 25 working days o process a Close Protection Licence application. In some cases, it could take up to six weeks due to issues with identity checks or criminal records.
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