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SIA licence training changes: new refresher qualifications and first aid requirements
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has introduced mandatory refresher qualifications and first aid prerequisites for door supervisors, security guards, and close protection operatives. Businesses employing SIA-licensed staff must ensure their workers complete updated training before licence renewal.
Change event:
SIA licence training changes: mandatory refresher qualifications and first aid prerequisites
Effective 1 April 2026
What is changing
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has updated the training requirements for three types of SIA licence: door supervisor, security guard, and close protection operative. The changes introduce mandatory refresher qualifications for licence renewal and new first aid prerequisites that must be completed before starting refresher training.
These changes apply in England, Scotland, and Wales. The SIA does not regulate private security in Northern Ireland — that falls under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (Northern Ireland) Order.
Door supervisors and security guards
Since 1 April 2025, door supervisors and security guards must complete a refresher qualification when renewing their SIA licence. Before starting the refresher training, they must hold an up-to-date first aid qualification that meets Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance.
Acceptable first aid qualifications include:
- Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
- First Person on Scene (FPOS)
- First Response Emergency Care (FREC)
Updated core qualifications for new applicants were introduced in 2021. If you already hold the updated qualification, you will need either the refresher or a top-up training course at your next renewal.
Close protection operatives
From 1 April 2026, close protection operatives must complete a refresher qualification when renewing their SIA licence. Before starting the refresher training, they must hold a Level 3 or above first aid qualification.
Acceptable Level 3 first aid qualifications include:
- Level 3 First Aid at Work (FAW)
- Level 3 First Person on Scene (FPOS)
- Level 3 First Response Emergency Care (FREC)
Updated close protection qualifications were introduced in 2022. Operatives who already hold the updated qualification will need either the refresher or top-up training at their next renewal.
Working without a valid licence
It is a criminal offence under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to carry out licensable security work without a valid SIA licence. Businesses that deploy unlicensed staff can face prosecution and unlimited fines.
If your licence expires before you complete the required refresher training, you cannot work in a licensable role until your renewal is granted.
What you need to do
If you employ or contract SIA-licensed staff:
- Check when each licence holder's current licence expires
- Ensure they complete the required first aid qualification before starting their refresher training
- Allow sufficient time for both the first aid course and the SIA refresher qualification before the licence expiry date
- Keep records of training completion for compliance purposes
If you hold an SIA licence:
- Book your first aid training well in advance of your renewal date
- Complete the refresher qualification after obtaining your first aid certificate
- Submit your renewal application with evidence of both qualifications
Northern Ireland
The SIA does not regulate private security in Northern Ireland. Private security licensing in Northern Ireland is governed separately. Check with the Department of Justice (Northern Ireland) for equivalent requirements.
DBS checks for employers (opens in a new tab)
Understand Disclosure and Barring Service checks, which may also apply to security sector employees.