If you want to work in security in the UK, you need to know two things: the SIA licence and where to find jobs. This guide covers both.
Whether you are just starting or you already have your licence, this article will help you understand the process and how to find the right agency to land your first (or next) security job.
And if you are a security business owner looking to grow, stay compliant, or get accredited, BizGrow Holdings is here to help. We support security companies across the UK with SIA ACS, compliance, ISO certifications, and business growth.
What Is an SIA Licence?
The SIA stands for the Security Industry Authority. It is the government body that regulates private security in the UK.
An SIA licence is a legal requirement. You cannot work in most security roles without one. It proves you have the right training, passed background checks, and are legally allowed to work in the UK.
There are two types of SIA licences:
• Frontline licence for people doing hands-on security work (door supervision, guarding, CCTV, close protection).
• Non-frontline licence for managers or supervisors who do not personally carry out security tasks.
The most common frontline licences are:
• Door Supervisor: working at pubs, clubs, events, and venues.
• Security Guard: For manned guarding, retail, offices, and corporate sites.
• CCTV Operator: monitoring public space surveillance systems.
• Close Protection: working as a bodyguard or personal protection officer.
Working without a valid SIA licence is a criminal offence. You can be fined and face prosecution.
If you run a security company and want to become an SIA Approved Contractor (ACS), BizGrow Holdings offers specialist SIA ACS support to help your business meet all the required standards.
Is It Hard to Get an SIA Licence?
The short answer is no, but it does take time and effort.
Most people who follow the process properly pass on their first attempt. The key is to be prepared and not cut corners.
Here is what you need to do:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you apply, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have the legal right to work in the UK.
- Pass a criminal record (DBS) check.
- Have a valid passport or UK driving licence for ID.
- Provide a full 5-year address history.
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. The SIA looks at each case individually. However, serious recent offences will be a problem.
From December 2025, the SIA also added new offences to their list, including domestic abuse, modern slavery, and tax evasion. Always check the latest GOV.UK guidance before applying.
Step 2: Complete Your Training
You must finish an SIA-approved training course before you can apply for a licence. Each role has its own required course:
- Door Supervisor: Level 2 Award in Door Supervision
- Security Guard: Level 2 Award in Security Guarding
- CCTV Operator: Level 2 Award in Public Space Surveillance
Training usually takes 4 to 6 days. It includes classroom learning and practical assessments. Some courses also require a First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate before you start.
If you are a security business owner looking to deliver corporate training to your own team, BizGrow Holdings offers corporate training and coaching tailored to the security industry.
Step 3: Apply Online
Once you have your training certificate, you apply through the official SIA website. This is non-refundable, so make sure you meet all requirements first.
The SIA will run identity checks and a DBS criminal record check as part of your application.
Step 4: Wait for Your Licence
Processing takes around 4 to 6 weeks. In some cases, it can take up to 10 weeks if there are complications like a complex address history or overseas checks needed.
You cannot start work until you physically have your licence card in hand. It is illegal to work while waiting, even if your application has been approved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not declaring all convictions, even spent ones. Non-disclosure causes automatic rejection.
- Missing parts of your address history. Every address for the past 5 years must be included.
- Choosing a training provider not approved by the SIA.
- Letting your ID expire before the process is complete.
Your SIA licence lasts 3 years. After that, you need to renew it. As of April 2025, all renewals now require mandatory refresher training. You will also need an up-to-date EFAW certificate to attend refresher training.
Is It a Good Idea to Use a Recruitment Agency?
Yes, and for most people, it is the smartest way to find security work.
The UK security industry is large and competitive. Thousands of SIA-licensed professionals are looking for work at any given time. A good recruitment agency can give you a serious advantage.
Here is why using an agency makes sense:
1. They Know the Industry
SIA security recruitment agencies specialise in this sector. They understand what employers want. They know which companies are hiring, what rates are fair, and what roles match your skills and licence type.
This saves you hours of searching job boards and guessing whether you are a good fit.
2. They Have Employer Connections
Top agencies have direct relationships with security companies, retailers, event organisers, hospitals, and corporate offices across the UK. Many roles never get advertised publicly; agencies fill them directly from their candidate databases.
If you are registered with a reputable agency, you can access jobs that others simply cannot find.
3. They Handle the Admin
A good agency will check your SIA licence, verify your right to work, and manage payroll on your behalf. This is especially useful if you are working temporary or contract shifts.
You just focus on doing the job.
4. Flexible Work Options
Many candidates prefer flexible hours. Security recruitment agencies offer temporary, contract, and permanent positions. If you want night shifts, weekend work, or a fixed full-time role, agencies can match you to what suits your lifestyle.
5. Career Support
Some agencies also guide training, licence renewals, and career progression. If you are new to the industry, this kind of support can be invaluable.
If you are a security business owner rather than a candidate, BizGrow Holdings provides specialist support for private security startups from compliance and accreditation to digital marketing and business growth tools.
Top SIA Security Recruitment Agencies in the UK
Here are some of the most well-known and reliable SIA security recruitment agencies operating in the UK:
1. HVAC Recruitment
HVAC Recruitment is a specialist SIA security recruitment agency that supplies fully licensed security staff to businesses across the UK. They cover contract, temporary, and permanent roles. Their services include corporate security, event security, retail security, and mobile patrol officers. They have a nationwide reach, including London and all major UK cities.
2. H&D Recruitment
H&D Recruitment focuses on security staffing for stadiums, warehouses, corporate offices, and retail environments in Greater London. They supply SIA-licensed door supervisors, security officers, and surveillance specialists. They are known for fast deployment and flexible shift patterns.
3. SSR Personnel
SSR Personnel is a London-based executive search practice with over 35 years of experience in the Security, Risk, Fire, and Life Safety sectors. They work with UK and Global 500 companies, placing candidates in permanent, temporary, and contract roles. They are members of the REC and APSCo.
4. Conifer Global Ltd
Based in London, Conifer Global Ltd provides SIA-certified security guards and door supervisors to a wide range of organisations. They also supply hospitality staff, making them a good option for event-based security work.
5. Labour Hire Solutions
Labour Hire Solutions has over 15 years of experience placing security professionals in construction, events, and retail. They operate across the UK and are known for competitive rates and a strong track record in temp and contract assignments.
6. BardWood Support Services
An Essex-based agency with over 18 years of experience in the Facilities Management sector. They place permanent, temporary, and contract security staff alongside cleaning and catering professionals. They are Cyber Essentials Plus certified.
7. Jackson Sims Recruitment
Jackson Sims specialises in security and concierge staffing for luxury residential developments in London. If you have a professional manner and want to work in high-end residential security, this agency is worth registering with.
8. Nepbridge
Nepbridge is a security recruitment agency based in Aldershot. They also offer SIA training for door supervisors, CCTV operators, close protection officers, and security guards. A good option if you need both training and job placement support.
How to Choose the Right Agency
Not all agencies are equal. Here is what to look for:
- They only place SIA-licensed candidates as a sign of compliance and professionalism.
- They are transparent about pay rates and shift patterns.
- They have good reviews on Trustpilot or Google.
- They offer support throughout the process, not just a job listing.
- They are members of the REC (Recruitment and Employment Confederation) or APSCo.
For security business owners looking to attract top talent and build a compliant, credible operation, BizGrow Holdings can help you get the accreditations and systems in place that recruitment agencies and clients look for.
Is an SIA Licence Worth It?
Absolutely, yes.
An SIA licence is your entry ticket to a stable, growing industry. The UK private security sector employs hundreds of thousands of people. Demand is consistent because businesses, events, and public spaces always need security.
Here is what makes the licence worth the effort:
Steady Pay
SIA-licensed security officers earn between £12 and £18 per hour in most UK cities. In London, specialist roles like luxury residential or corporate security can pay £20 or more. Night shifts and weekend work usually come with a pay premium of 15 to 25%.
Consistent Demand
Security work is needed all year round. Retail sites, hospitals, construction sites, events, and airports, the demand never really drops. This means less uncertainty about finding shifts or contracts.
Career Progression
Starting as a security officer opens doors to more senior roles. With experience, you can move into security management, close protection, risk assessment, or corporate security. Some professionals even set up their own security companies.
Thinking of starting your own security business? BizGrow Holdings offers a complete Private Security Startup package covering SIA ACS, ISO 9001, BS7858 vetting, compliance consultancy, and digital marketing support.
Variety of Work
You are not stuck in one place or doing one thing. Security roles span retail, events, construction, hospitality, corporate offices, and healthcare. You can choose what suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to get an SIA licence from start to finish?
From starting your training to receiving your licence card, you can expect the process to take around 8 to 12 weeks. Training takes about 4 to 6 days. The SIA then takes 4 to 6 weeks to process your application, sometimes longer if there are overseas checks or complications.
Q2: Can I work for a security agency while my SIA application is being processed?
No. You cannot legally work in a licensable security role until you physically have your SIA licence card. Even if your application has been approved, you must wait for the card to arrive before starting work. Starting work early is a criminal offence.
Q4: Can I get an SIA licence if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. The SIA reviews each case individually. Minor or old offences may not prevent you from getting a licence. However, serious offences, especially recent ones, can result in refusal. Since December 2025, the SIA has had stricter rules around sexual offences, domestic abuse, and other serious crimes. Always check the official GOV.UK guidance before applying.
Q5: Is one SIA licence enough for all security jobs?
No. Each type of security role requires its own specific licence. A Security Guard licence does not allow you to work as a door supervisor. If you want to work across different types of security jobs, you may need more than one licence. Many experienced security professionals hold both a Door Supervisor and a Security Guard licence to maximise their job options.
Final Thoughts
Getting an SIA licence is not complicated, but it does require proper preparation. Complete your training, sort your documents, and submit an honest application. Most people are approved without any issues.
Once licensed, using a reliable SIA security recruitment agency is the fastest way to start working. The right agency will match your licence type and experience to the right roles, handle the admin, and get you earning quickly.
The security industry in the UK offers steady work, decent pay, and real career potential. If you are serious about working in security, getting your SIA licence is the best first step you can take.
And if you are ready to take the next step, whether that is starting your own security company or growing an existing one, BizGrow Holdings is the UK’s trusted partner for security business compliance, accreditation, and growth. Get in touch today to see how we can help.