The Security Industry Authority (SIA) oversees and regulates the private security industry in the United Kingdom.The SIA was set up to safeguard the public by prohibiting inappropriate individuals from gaining employment in the private security industry.
What is the Procedure for Obtaining an SIA license?
It is mandatory to have an SIA license in order to work as a security
guard or in the security industry. It is a criminal offence to engage in
security work without this license, and a person might face a six-month prison
sentence or a £5,000 fine. Therefore, it is critical that you obtain one or
renew one if it has expired.
To be eligible for an SIA license, you must meet the following criteria:
·
18 years old or older
·
Pass a background check
·
Conduct a background check to see whether you have any
criminal history.
·
Be authorized to work in the United Kingdom.
Depending on the security position you want to undertake, you can choose
from a variety of licenses:
·
Security Guarding
·
Door Surveillance
·
Safety of Money and Valuables in Transit
·
Public Monitoring Using Surveillance cameras
·
Key Holding
·
Vehicle Immobilising
Depending on the type of security job you want to do, your training will
also change.
·
Door Supervisor Coaching
·
Security Guard Course
·
Video surveillance Training
·
Close Protection Training
SIA Security Guard License Renewal After Expiration
Since SIA licenses do not automatically renew, you must keep track of
when your license expires.If you want to keep working in the same job after
your current license expires, you'll have to renew it manually.
You have up to four months before your current SIA license expires to
apply for a renewal. Submit your renewal application as soon as possible to
avoid any delays that could impair your ability to work.
Your new license will be valid from the day SIA issues it. Any time
remaining on your old one will be transferred to your new one.
Is it Possible to Renew my SIA Licence Once it has Expired?
If you don't have an active license in that sector, you won't be able to
renew it. You must apply for a new one if your license has expired.
License renewal costs the same as a new application, but it does not
require extra training or qualifications.
What is the Duration of an SIA License?
Unless you have a Front-Line Vehicle Immobiliser Licence, which must be
renewed every year, your SIA Licence will last three years.
To continue working legally, you must reapply when your current license
expires or is about to expire.
You cannot legally work as a security guard without an SIA license,
restricting your job opportunities. Having a license and updating it is
essential.
Renewal of SIA Licence
The SIA requires that you complete formal training and pass examinations
in order to apply for a Security Guard Licence.
However, there are no prerequisites to attend refresher training if you
want to renew your SIA Security Guard Licence.