Close Protection Licence
The SIA Close Protection Licence allows the holder to legally work as a close protection operative or bodyguard in the United Kingdom.
What is the Close Protection Licence?
- The Close Protection Licence enables you to work in the private security industry as a bodyguard or close protection operative.
- We make getting your SIA Close Protection licence a simple, stress-free process ✅
The licence is issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and is valid for 3 years.
Holders of the Close Protection Licence will be expected to handle high pressure situations and the threat of assault, while providing security for important individuals, including celebrities, politicians and sports stars.
Eligibility
To be eligible for an SIA Close Protection Licence, you must be 18 years of age, have the right to work in the UK and have passed identity and criminal checks.
NOTE – To apply for this licence you will need to be a Certified First Aider (First Aid at Work), have successfully completed the required training course and obtained the linked qualification: Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry.
How to apply for the SIA Close Protection Licence
Getting your SIA Close Protection Licence may seem complicated, but it’s actually quite simple! All you need to do is follow these easy steps:
✅ Pass the Level 3 Close Protection Course
The Close Protection Course usually takes between 16-19 days to complete. The training course is assessed by multiple choice exams and practical assessments including live drills.
✅ Apply for SIA Licence online
The cost of starting a licence application is a non-refundable .The SIA will get back to you within 25 working days. In rare cases where extra security checks are required, it may take up to 6 weeks. Note, if you are already an SIA Licence Holder, you will be eligible for a 50% discount.
✅ Complete identity checks at Post Office
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, sign the back of your photo ID.
✅Submit the application and wait for the SIA to complete identity and criminal background checks
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. Please note, if you have spent 6 continuous months outside the UK in the last 5 years, you will need to supply evidence of a criminal record check. However, if you were serving in the military during this period, parts of your military record covering the stated period will be required instead.
✅ Receive your 3-year licence in the post
You are finally licensed! Your SIA Close Protection Licence is valid for 3 years.