The practical route
- Work out which licence you need. The category follows the work, not the course price. Which licence do I need?
- Check first-aid prerequisites. Door Supervisor and Security Guard routes need valid first-aid evidence before the licence-linked training starts. First aid for SIA
- Choose a recognised training provider. Centres are approved by awarding organisations. The SIA does not approve or vet training providers, so check the qualification and centre on the listing.
- Complete the qualification with the provider named on your booking, including any practical assessment.
- Create or sign in to your SIA account and start the application.
- Complete identity and background checks and respond quickly to any request for more information.
- Pay the £204 application fee. This is separate from the course fee unless a listing says otherwise.
- After approval, keep your licence details current and diarise the renewal well ahead of expiry.
Common mistakes
- Booking training before checking which licence the job actually needs
- Leaving first aid until the day the course starts
- Assuming the course fee includes the SIA licence fee
- Assuming a pass guarantees a licence: the SIA still makes the decision
- Starting licensable work before the licence is granted
- Paying for training before checking criminal-record eligibility: read this first
Last reviewed 22 September 2026. SIA rules and fees change. Check the current official guidance before you book or apply: Apply for an SIA licence · April 2026 change to the SIA licence fee · SIA: approved training providers
