DOOR SUPERVISOR LICENCE
The SIA Door Supervisor Licence allows the holder to legally work as a Door Supervisor or Security Guard in the United Kingdom. It is illegal to work in front-line roles without an SIA Licence.
What is the Door Supervisor Licence?
The Door Supervisor Licence allows holders to work in the private security industry in a variety of roles. The licence is issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and is valid for 3 years. With the SIA Door Supervisor Licence individuals can work in pubs, bars, shops, malls, office buildings and more. Primary responsibilities include keeping the public safe from harm and protecting private property.
Do I need an SIA Door Supervisor Licence?
If you are conducting the licensable activities of a Door Supervisor, such as protecting private property or members of the public, then by law you require an SIA Licence. In certain circumstances, however, your employer may have been given an exemption under Section 4(4) of the Private Security Industry Act 2001.
WARNING: Working in the private security industry without the appropriate SIA Licence is a legal offence with severe penalties.
Eligibility
To be eligible for an SIA Door Supervisor Licence, you must be 18 years of age, have the right to work in the UK and have passed the Door Supervisor Course. You will also have to pass identity and criminal background checks conducted by the SIA.
How to apply for the SIA Door Supervisor Licence
Getting your SIA Door Supervisor Licence may seem complicated, but it’s actually quite easy! All you need to do is follow the simple steps:
✅ Pass the Door Supervisor Course
The Door supervisor course takes 6 days to complete. The training course is assessed by 4 multiple choice exams and a practical assessment.
✅Complete the licence application on the SIA website
The SIA will get back to you within 25 working days. In rare cases, this can take up to 6 weeks.
✅ Complete identity checks
You will need to verify your identity to satisfy parts of your SIA application, namely your photo ID. The easiest way to do this is at the Post Office. You can also have someone with a British passport, who is not related to you, to sign the back of your photo ID.
✅ Submit application to the SIA
The SIA will verify your identity and run a background check on your criminal record. If you have lived abroad for 6 months or more, you may be required to provide some supporting evidence.
✅ Receive your 3 year licence in the post
You are finally licensed! Your SIA Door Supervisor Licence is valid for 3 years.