🛡️ SIA Licence Cost UK 2026 Guide
If you want to work in the UK security industry, you must hold an SIA licence issued by the Security Industry Authority. SIA Licence Cost UK 2026
In 2026, SIA licensing remains essential for roles such as:
- Door Supervisor
- Security Guard
- CCTV Operator
- Close Protection
- Event Security
- Retail Security
This guide explains:
- 2026 SIA licence fees
- Training course costs
- Renewal fees
- Licence types explained
- Application times
- How to apply
- How to save money
💷 SIA Licence Fees (2026 Official Prices)
| Licence Type | SIA Fee (2026) |
|---|---|
| Door Supervisor Licence | £184 |
| Security Guard Licence | £184 |
| CCTV Operator Licence | £184 |
| Close Protection Licence | £184 |
| Key Holding Licence | £184 |
| Renewal (any licence) | £184 |
These prices are set by the UK Government and apply throughout 2026.
📘 What’s Included in the £184 SIA Fee?
- Identity verification
- DBS background checks
- Licence processing
- 3-year licence duration
- Access to SIA account portal
👉 Training course is NOT included — this is extra.
🎓 SIA Training Course Costs (2026)
Before you apply for the licence, you must complete accredited training.
⭐ Average SIA Course Prices (2026)
| Training Course | Training Cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Door Supervisor Course | £180 – £350 |
| Security Guard Course | £150 – £250 |
| CCTV Operator Course | £150 – £250 |
| Close Protection Course | £700 – £1,500 |
| First Aid Course (required) | £80 – £150 |
Door Supervisor training now requires the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate before starting.
🧮 Total Cost to Get SIA Licence (2026)
✔ Door Supervisor
- Training: £180–£350
- First Aid: £80–£150
- SIA licence: £184
➡ Total: £444 – £684
✔ Security Guard
➡ £334 – £484
✔ CCTV Operator
➡ £334 – £434
✔ Close Protection
➡ £964 – £1,834
📆 How Long Does the SIA Licence Last?
⭐ Valid for 3 years
You must renew before expiry to keep working legally.
🔁 SIA Licence Renewal Cost (2026)
Renewal fee is the same:
⭐ £184
If your training course is recent, you may not need to retake it — except for:
- Close Protection (must renew training every 3 years)
- First Aid may need updating
⏳ SIA Application Processing Time (2026)
Average times:
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| DBS & identity checks | 2–4 weeks |
| SIA decision | 1–2 weeks |
| Total time | 3–6 weeks |
Busy seasons (summer & Christmas) can take longer.
📍 Types of SIA Licences (2026)
🟦 1. Door Supervisor Licence
Allows:
- Bouncer work
- Club/pub security
- Event security
- Retail security
- Static guarding
Most versatile licence in the UK.
🟩 2. Security Guard Licence
Allows:
- Static guarding
- Retail security
- Business premises security
Cannot work as Door Staff.
🟧 3. CCTV Operator Licence
Allows:
- Monitoring CCTV in public spaces
- Control room operations
🟥 4. Close Protection Licence
For:
- Bodyguards
- VIP protection
- Security escort services
Most expensive and intensive training.
🟨 5. Key Holder Licence
Allows:
- Alarm response
- Key-holding services
🧾 Required Documents for SIA Application
You’ll need:
- Passport or driving licence
- Proof of address
- Right-to-work documents
- Training certificate
- First Aid certificate
- Recent passport photo
🔗 Official SIA Application Link
Add this for SEO authority:
https://www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/Pages/licensing.aspx
💡 Tips to Save Money on SIA Licence (2026)
- Book training centres outside London
- Choose weekday courses (weekend courses cost more)
- Check for group discounts
- Avoid “all inclusive” packages (usually overpriced)
- Renew early to avoid re-training
- Use one licence type (Door Supervisor covers most jobs)
❓ FAQs — SIA Licence Cost UK 2026
1. How much is the SIA licence in 2026?
£184 for all types.
2. Do I need training before applying?
Yes — SIA requires accredited training.
3. How long does the licence last?
3 years.
4. Can I get an SIA licence with a criminal record?
Depends on severity and recency — SIA uses a crime point system.
5. Can I work while waiting for my licence?
No — working without a licence is illegal.
6. What is the easiest licence to get?
CCTV Operator (least training time).
📌 Conclusion
In 2026, getting an SIA licence in the UK costs:
- £184 for the licence
- £150–£350 for training
- Extra for first aid, depending on role
Door Supervisor remains the best-value licence because it qualifies you for the widest range of security jobs.