Guvnor
Defence, Security & Space Security and investigation

SIA training qualifications reference

Quick-reference table of all SIA-approved qualifications by licence type, including core qualifications, refresher requirements, first aid prerequisites, guided learning hours, and approved awarding organisations.

UK-wide
Guide summary

To get an SIA licence, complete the approved training for your job type (door supervisor, security guard, close protection, or CCTV operator). Training must be done within 3 years of applying. From April 2025, door supervisors and security guards must do refresher training before renewing their licence.

  • Door supervisor: Complete Level 2 Award (76 hours)
  • Security guard: Complete Level 2 Award (56 hours)
  • Close protection: Complete Level 3 Certificate (150 hours)
  • CCTV operator: Complete Level 2 Award (31 hours)
  • Training valid for 3 years before licence application
  • From April 2025: refresher training for door supervisors and security guards
  • First aid certificate required for refresher training
  • Check approved awarding organisations for your course
  • Door supervisors can get a linked security guard licence
  • Close protection includes Level 3 first aid training
On this page
UK-wide

Current SIA-approved qualifications, refresher requirements, and first aid prerequisites by licence type.

Door supervisor

Security guard

Close protection

CCTV (public space surveillance)

Refresher qualifications

Mandatory top-up training required before renewing an existing licence.

First aid prerequisites

For how to apply for or renew an SIA licence, see Apply for an SIA licence.

Set up security staff training

How to establish and manage ongoing training for private security employees. Covers initial SIA qualifications, mandatory refresher training, first aid maintenance, conflict management CPD, lone worker training, and record-keeping obligations.

Renew your SIA licence

How to renew your SIA licence before it expires, including the new mandatory refresher training requirements for door supervisors (from April 2025) and close protection operatives (from April 2026).

Secure your business premises

Security requirements for business premises including CCTV compliance, SIA licensing, and physical security measures.

Understanding SIA regulation of the private security industry

What the Security Industry Authority does, why private security is regulated in the United Kingdom, how the licensing system works under the Private Security Industry Act 2001, and what happens to businesses and individuals who operate without a licence.

Verify SIA licence validity for your employees

How to use the SIA licence checker to verify employee licences before deployment. Covers your legal obligations under section 5 of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 and what to do if a licence is expired, suspended, or revoked.