SIA Licence Cost UK 2026: What You Need to Know

SIA Licence Cost UK 2026: What You Need to Know

If you are considering a career in the private security industry, one of the first questions you will ask is: how much does an SIA licence cost? The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the private security sector across England, Scotland, and Wales, and anyone working in a licensable role — from door supervision to close protection — must hold a valid SIA licence before they can legally operate.

In this comprehensive guide, Quantum Group Ltd breaks down every cost associated with obtaining and renewing your SIA licence in 2026. We cover the five main licence types, training course fees, application costs, renewal requirements, and the new refresher training obligations that came into effect in April 2025. Whether you are a first-time applicant looking to break into the industry or an experienced professional preparing for renewal, this guide will give you the full picture.

As a leading security company based at Crawley Business Quarter, Innovation Centre, Fleming Way, Manor Royal, Crawley, RH10 9QL, Quantum Group serves clients across Sussex, Surrey, and London. Every member of our operational team holds a valid SIA licence, and through our training academy, we are committed to raising professional standards across the industry.

SIA Licence Application Fee in 2026

The SIA licence application fee is set by the Home Office and applies to all front-line licence types equally. As of March 2026, the current application fee is £184 for a single licence. However, it is important to be aware that from 1 April 2026, the fee will increase to £204.

Key facts about the SIA licence fee:

• The fee covers a three-year licence from the date of issue (except vehicle immobiliser licences, which last one year)
• If you apply for more than one licence type, you receive a 50% discount on each additional licence — meaning your second licence costs just £92 (or £102 from April 2026)
• The application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful
• You must have the correct licence-linked qualification before you apply

If you are planning to apply, submitting your application before 1 April 2026 could save you £20 on the licence fee alone.

SIA Licence Types and Their Costs

The SIA issues several categories of front-line licence. Each licence type requires a specific qualification, and training costs vary depending on the licence you need. Below, we break down the five most common licence types that security professionals in Sussex, Surrey, and London are likely to need.

1. Door Supervisor Licence

The door supervisor licence is the most popular SIA licence in the UK. It allows you to work in a range of roles including nightclub and pub door work, retail security, event security, and corporate reception security. This licence is often seen as the gateway into the security industry.

Training cost: £200 – £350 for the Level 2 Award for Door Supervisors

First aid training: Included in most door supervisor courses or £50 – £80 if taken separately

SIA licence fee: £184 (rising to £204 from April 2026)

Total cost from scratch: approximately £384 – £554

Course duration: Typically 4–6 days

The door supervisor qualification covers conflict management, physical intervention, emergency procedures, and legal responsibilities. At Quantum Group, our manned guarding and front-of-house security teams all hold door supervisor licences as a minimum requirement.

2. Security Guard Licence

The security guard licence — formally known as the licence for Security Guarding — is required for anyone working in static guarding, mobile patrol, or general security duties. It is slightly less intensive than the door supervisor qualification, as it does not include physical intervention training.

Training cost: £180 – £300 for the Level 2 Award for Security Guards

SIA licence fee: £184 (rising to £204 from April 2026)

Total cost from scratch: approximately £364 – £504

Course duration: Typically 3–4 days

Many professionals choose to take the door supervisor course instead, as it qualifies you for both door supervision and general security guarding roles, offering greater flexibility. Our mobile patrol services team, for example, typically hold door supervisor licences to ensure they are equipped for any situation they may encounter on patrol.

3. CCTV Operator Licence (Public Space Surveillance)

If you wish to work as a CCTV operator monitoring public space surveillance systems, you will need a Public Space Surveillance (CCTV) licence. This role is increasingly in demand as businesses and local authorities invest more heavily in surveillance technology.

Training cost: £180 – £300 for the Level 2 Award for CCTV Operators (Public Space Surveillance)

SIA licence fee: £184 (rising to £204 from April 2026)

Total cost from scratch: approximately £364 – £504

Course duration: Typically 3–4 days

The course covers data protection legislation, CCTV operation procedures, incident identification, and evidence handling. Quantum Group provides comprehensive CCTV monitoring and security services across Sussex, Surrey, and London, and all our monitoring centre staff are fully licensed.

4. Close Protection Licence

The close protection licence — often referred to as a bodyguard licence — is the most intensive and expensive SIA licence to obtain. It is required for anyone providing personal protection to individuals, whether in a corporate, celebrity, or high-net-worth context.

Training cost: £2,500 – £4,500 for the Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives

SIA licence fee: £184 (rising to £204 from April 2026)

Total cost from scratch: approximately £2,684 – £4,704

Course duration: Typically 14–18 days (often delivered over 2–3 weeks)

Close protection training is significantly more demanding than other SIA qualifications. It covers threat assessment, route planning, surveillance awareness, advanced first aid, and practical scenario-based exercises. Candidates usually need a door supervisor licence and some industry experience before enrolling.

Quantum Group’s close protection services deploy highly experienced operatives throughout Sussex, Surrey, and London. We recruit only the most capable professionals who hold valid close protection licences and demonstrate exceptional situational awareness.

5. Key Holding Licence

Key holding does not require a standalone SIA licence. Key holding and alarm response services are typically delivered by personnel who already hold a valid security guard or door supervisor licence. The SIA does not issue a separate key holding licence category.

However, if you are working in key holding as part of a wider security role, you will still need the appropriate SIA licence for the guarding activity you perform. Many security companies, including Quantum Group, integrate key holding into their mobile patrol services, meaning operatives hold door supervisor or security guard licences.

Important note: While key holding itself is not a licensable activity under the Private Security Industry Act 2001, the alarm response and guarding elements that accompany it are. Always ensure you hold the correct licence for the duties you carry out.

Complete Cost Comparison Table

The table below summarises the total cost of obtaining each SIA licence type in 2026, including both training and the licence application fee:

Note: Training costs vary by provider and location. Prices shown are typical ranges for courses delivered in the South East of England. Contact the Quantum Group Training Academy for current pricing and availability.

SIA Licence Application Process: Step by Step

Applying for your SIA licence is a straightforward process, but it is important to have everything in order before you begin. Here is the step-by-step process for 2026:

Step 1: Complete Your Training

Before you can apply for any SIA licence, you must hold the correct licence-linked qualification. This means completing an approved training course with a recognised provider. Courses are available throughout Sussex, Surrey, and London, and Quantum Group’s training academy can advise you on the best options for your chosen career path.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You will need the following to apply:

• Your training qualification certificate (with your unique qualification reference number)
• Proof of identity (passport, driving licence, or birth certificate)
• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill dated within the last three months)
• Proof of right to work in the UK
• A digital photograph meeting SIA specifications
• Your National Insurance number

Step 3: Apply Online

All SIA licence applications are submitted through the SIA’s online portal at services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk. The process typically takes 20–30 minutes to complete. You will need to pay the £184 fee (or £204 from April 2026) by debit or credit card at the time of application.

Step 4: Identity Verification

The SIA uses a third-party service to verify your identity. In most cases, this can be done online. If online verification is not possible, you may be asked to visit a Post Office for an in-person identity check.

Step 5: Criminal Record Check

The SIA will carry out an enhanced criminal record check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in England and Wales, Disclosure Scotland, or AccessNI in Northern Ireland. You do not need to arrange this yourself — it is included as part of the application process.

Step 6: Receive Your Licence

Processing times vary, but the SIA aims to process most applications within four to six weeks. Once approved, your licence card will be posted to your registered address. You must carry your licence at all times while working in a licensable role.

SIA Licence Renewal: Costs and Requirements for 2026

Your SIA licence is valid for three years from the date of issue. The SIA recommends beginning the renewal process at least 16 weeks before your licence expires to avoid any gap in your ability to work.

The renewal fee is the same as a new application: £184 (rising to £204 from April 2026). However, there is a significant change that all security professionals need to be aware of.

Mandatory Refresher Training (From April 2025)

Since 1 April 2025, the SIA has required all door supervisors and security guards to complete mandatory refresher training before they can renew their licence. This is a major change from the previous system, where you could simply reapply without additional training.

Key details about refresher training:

• Cost: £99 – £129 depending on the training provider
• Duration: 1–2 days
• Content: Updated legal requirements, counter-terrorism awareness (ACT Awareness), conflict management refresher, and changes to industry best practice
• When to complete: Within the six months before your licence expires

This means the total cost of renewing a door supervisor or security guard licence in 2026 is approximately £283 – £333 (refresher training plus licence fee).

At Quantum Group, we support our staff through the renewal process and ensure every team member completes their refresher training well in advance of their licence expiry date. Maintaining current licensing is non-negotiable across all our services, from event security to manned guarding.

Training Requirements: What Each Qualification Involves

Understanding what each training course covers can help you decide which licence is right for your career goals. Here is a breakdown of the core modules for each qualification:

Door Supervisor Training Modules

• Working in the private security industry
• Conflict management (verbal and non-verbal communication, de-escalation techniques)
• Physical intervention skills
• Emergency first aid at work
• Licensing law and legislation
• Search procedures and drug awareness
• Counter-terrorism awareness (ACT Awareness)

Security Guard Training Modules

• Working in the private security industry
• Conflict management
• Emergency procedures and first aid awareness
• Report writing and incident documentation
• Counter-terrorism awareness

CCTV Operator Training Modules

• Working in the private security industry
• Surveillance camera operation and monitoring
• Data protection and GDPR compliance
• Incident recognition and response
• Evidence handling and recording
• Counter-terrorism awareness

Close Protection Training Modules

• Threat assessment and risk analysis
• Operational planning and route selection
• Surveillance detection and counter-surveillance
• Advanced first aid and trauma management
• Embus and debus drills
• Venue advance work
• Foot and vehicle formations
• Practical scenario-based exercises

SIA Training Opportunities in Sussex and Surrey

The South East of England is well served by SIA training providers, with courses running regularly across Sussex, Surrey, and London. When choosing a training provider, look for the following:

• Awarding body approval: Ensure the provider is approved by a recognised awarding organisation such as Highfield, City & Guilds, or HABC
• Course schedule: Many providers offer flexible scheduling, including weekend and intensive courses
• Pass rates: A reputable provider should be transparent about their pass rates
• Practical facilities: Particularly important for door supervisor and close protection courses, which include physical elements
• Career support: Some providers, including those linked to security companies like Quantum Group, offer pathways to employment after qualification

Quantum Group’s training academy works with accredited partners to ensure that aspiring security professionals in Sussex, Surrey, and London have access to high-quality training. We also provide ongoing professional development for our existing team members, keeping their skills sharp and their knowledge current.

Quantum Group’s Hiring Standards

At Quantum Group, holding a valid SIA licence is just the starting point. Our recruitment process goes well beyond the minimum regulatory requirements to ensure that every operative we deploy meets the highest professional standards.

When recruiting security professionals, we look for:

• Valid SIA licence appropriate to the role (this is a non-negotiable requirement)
• Right to work in the UK with full documentation
• Enhanced DBS check with no disqualifying offences
• Proven experience in the relevant security sector
• Professional references verified through our vetting process
• Customer service skills — our operatives represent your business as much as they protect it
• Additional qualifications such as first aid at work, fire marshal training, or counter-terrorism awareness

We are always looking for talented, licensed security professionals to join our team. If you hold a valid SIA licence and are looking for security work in Sussex, Surrey, or London, visit our career opportunities page to see current vacancies.

How to Save Money on Your SIA Licence

Obtaining your SIA licence is an investment in your career. Here are some practical ways to keep costs down:

• Apply before April 2026: Save £20 on the licence fee by applying before the price increase takes effect
• Bundle licences: If you need more than one licence type, apply for them together. The 50% discount on additional licences means your second licence costs just £92 (or £102 from April 2026)
• Compare training providers: Prices vary significantly across the South East. Shop around, but do not sacrifice quality for a cheaper price
• Look for employer-sponsored training: Some security companies, including Quantum Group, support the training and licensing costs for promising candidates
• Plan ahead for renewal: Book your refresher training early to avoid last-minute premium pricing
• Check for funding: Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for government-funded training through schemes such as the Adult Education Budget or Skills Bootcamps

Why SIA Licensing Matters for Businesses

If you are a business looking to hire security staff or contract a security company, understanding SIA licensing is essential. It is a legal requirement under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to use only SIA-licensed operatives for licensable activities. Using unlicensed security staff can result in criminal prosecution and significant fines.

When choosing a security provider, always verify that:

• All front-line staff hold valid, current SIA licences
• The company has an Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) accreditation — this demonstrates that the company meets SIA standards across its operations
• Licence details can be checked using the SIA’s public register at services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk

Quantum Group maintains full licensing compliance across every service we deliver, including manned guarding, mobile patrols, event security, CCTV monitoring, front-of-house security, and close protection. Every operative is vetted, licensed, and regularly audited to ensure ongoing compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an SIA licence cost in 2026?

The SIA licence application fee is currently £184, but this will rise to £204 from 1 April 2026. This fee applies to all front-line licence types, including door supervisor, security guard, CCTV operator, and close protection. The total cost of getting licensed also includes training, which ranges from £180 for a basic security guard course to £4,500 for close protection training.

How long does an SIA licence last?

An SIA licence is valid for three years from the date of issue. You should begin the renewal process at least 16 weeks before your licence expires to ensure there is no gap in your ability to work.

Can I work in security without an SIA licence?

No. It is a criminal offence to carry out licensable security activities without a valid SIA licence. Both the individual and the employer can face prosecution. There are limited exemptions, such as in-house security staff at certain types of premises, but the vast majority of security roles require a licence.

How long does it take to get an SIA licence?

The training course takes between 3 and 18 days depending on the licence type. Once you submit your application, the SIA typically processes it within four to six weeks. In total, you could be fully licensed and working within six to eight weeks of starting your training.

Do I need refresher training to renew my SIA licence?

Yes. Since April 2025, mandatory refresher training has been required for all door supervisor and security guard licence renewals. The refresher course typically costs £99 to £129 and takes one to two days to complete. You must complete it within six months of your licence expiry date.

What is the cheapest SIA licence to get?

The security guard licence has the lowest total cost, with training courses typically starting from around £180 plus the £184 licence fee, giving a total from approximately £364. However, many people choose to invest in the door supervisor licence instead, as it offers greater career flexibility and qualifies you for a wider range of roles.

Can I hold more than one SIA licence?

Yes. You can hold multiple SIA licence types simultaneously. If you apply for more than one licence, you benefit from a 50% discount on each additional licence. This is particularly useful if you want to work across different security sectors, such as door supervision and CCTV monitoring.

Does Quantum Group sponsor SIA training?

Quantum Group works with aspiring security professionals through our training academy and may support training and licensing costs for exceptional candidates. We also provide ongoing development and refresher training for our existing team. Visit our career opportunities page or contact us to learn more about joining the team.

Is my SIA licence valid across the whole of the UK?

SIA licences are valid in England, Scotland, and Wales. Northern Ireland has a separate regulatory framework. If you obtain your licence in Sussex or Surrey, for example, you can work anywhere in England, Scotland, or Wales without any additional licensing.

What happens if my SIA licence expires?

If your licence expires, you must immediately stop working in any licensable security role. Working without a valid licence is a criminal offence. You will need to complete the refresher training (for door supervisor and security guard licences) and submit a new application with the full fee. Avoid this situation by starting your renewal early.

Start Your Security Career with Quantum Group

Whether you are taking your first steps into the private security industry or looking to advance your career with a professional, SIA-licensed employer, Quantum Group Ltd can help. Based in Crawley, West Sussex, we provide security services across Sussex, Surrey, and London, and we are always looking for dedicated professionals to join our growing team.

Our training academy provides guidance on obtaining your SIA licence, and our career opportunities page lists current vacancies across our full range of services. From manned guarding and mobile patrols to event security and close protection, there is a role to suit every ambition.

To discuss your SIA licensing questions, explore training options, or enquire about joining the Quantum Group team, get in touch today:

• Phone: 0204 591 7971
• Email: info@quantumgroupltd.co.uk
• Visit: Crawley Business Quarter, Innovation Centre, Fleming Way, Manor Royal, Crawley, RH10 9QL
• Online: Contact Us