If you are applying as an individual seeking your own SIA licence, you can apply directly on the SIA’s website. We’ve put together some simple steps and advice to help you get started.
1. Complete the Licence Application on the SIA Website
Create an online account with the SIA by clicking here. Log into your SIA account, click on ‘Process new application’ and answer the questions. Try to be as accurate as you can. The cost of a licence application is £184.
The SIA will get back to you within 25 working days. In rare cases, this can take up to 6 weeks.
2. Complete Identity Checks
You will need to verify your identity to satisfy parts of your SIA application, namely your photo ID. Following this, you will be instructed to go to your local Post Office with your ID – your identification will be checked and verified so you must take the originals documents.
It is also important to check that the post office you are going to has the SIA Licence Application facility (this can be checked on the SIA page or through a Google search).
3. Submit Your 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.
4. You Are Finally Licenced
Your SIA Licence is valid for 3 years. You must renew this yourself.
SIA licencing Tips and Advice:
- Applying for a licence does not mean you will get one. To be successful, you will need to pass all of the application checks.
- Keep an eye out for an email from the SIA when you first set up your SIA account – you will need to accept this before you can proceed (check your spam/junk box just in case).
- Prepare your documentation ahead of time and make sure your ID is ready for the verification process at the Post Office.
- If you have an error message at the end of the licence application process that says ‘no qualification found’ – check the information that you have inputted as it may not match the details that were uploaded by the awarding body.
- After selecting the licence you wish to apply for – you should opt for the ‘Frontline’ SIA licence and pick the licensable role you have completed training for i.e. CCTV, Door Supervisor etc.
Criminal Records
The SIA will take note of cautions in the past 3 years and spent convictions in the past 5 years. Each case is different and the SIA assesses these matters on a case-by-case basis. If you’re not sure either way, complete the SIA criminality checker before you book your SIA course.
How Long Will it Take to Get My SIA Licence?
The longest it can take is 25 working days. But in our experience they generally come back within 2 to 3 weeks. In rare cases, this can take up to 6 weeks. It is best to check the SIA Licence indicator on their website:- checker
SIA licence Renewal
Unfortunately, SIA licences do not renew automatically, so it is your responsibility to monitor your licence’s expiry date. You will need to manually renew your licence if you wish to continue working in the same role after your current licence expires.
You can apply for an SIA Licence renewal up to four months before your current licence expires. You should submit your renewal application as soon as possible, as applying early reduces the risk of a delay that might affect your ability to work. Your new licence will be valid from the day the SIA grant it and any time left on your current licence will be added to your new one.
Further Help:
For more details all information is on the SIA webpage
