How long does it take to complete an SIA Course in the UK?
Are you looking to get your SIA (Security Industry Authority) license in the UK?
This blog post will provide you with all the information you need to know about the time it takes to complete an SIA course.
We will cover what an SIA course involves, the different types of SIA courses available, the duration of each type of SIA course, and the qualifications you need to successfully complete the course.
To be eligible to apply for an SIA license, individuals must meet the following criteria:
✅ Age:
Applicants must be 18 years of age or above.
✅ SIA training qualification certificate:
Individuals must have successfully completed the relevant SIA-approved training course for the role they wish to apply for. For example, if someone wants to work as a security guard, they must obtain the SIA-approved training qualification for security guarding.
✅ Identity documents:
Applicants must provide valid identification documents for verification purposes. This may include a passport, driver’s license, or other government-issued identification.
✅ Right to work in the UK:
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom. This may require providing documentation such as a visa or work permit.
✅ Criminal record check:
Individuals must undergo a criminal record check as part of the application process. This is to verify that they do not have any criminal convictions or certain types of offenses that may make them unsuitable for working in the private security industry.
It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the type of SIA license being applied for (e.g., CCTV operator, door supervisor) and any additional criteria set by the SIA.
Types Of More Popular SIA Training Courses
✅ SIA Door Supervisor
The seven-days SIA Door Supervisor training is essential for anyone who wants to work as a door supervisor in the private security industry in the UK. Furthermore, you can work as a door supervisor in security companies, hotels, bars, clubs, and other licensed institutions.
✅ SIA Security Guard
The five-days SIA Security Guard course is mandatory for people who intend to work as security guards in the private security industry in the UK. Security guards keep the public and the premises secure while deterring crime. Furthermore, you can work as a security guard in security companies, banks, museums, hospitals, office buildings, clubs, stores, and other licensed places.
✅ SIA CCTV Operator
The four-days SIA CCTV Operator training is obligatory for those who want to work as CCTV Operators in the private security industry in the UK. CCTV operators detect, prevent, and protect individuals by monitoring multiple screens depicting security cameras installed in public places.
The duration of an SIA course in UK can vary depending on the type of course and the training provider you choose.
The most commonly required SIA course for most security-related roles is the Security Guarding course.
This course typically takes between 3 to 5 days to complete, with classes taking place during regular business hours.
In addition to the Security Guarding course, there are other courses that you may need to take depending on the specific role you want to work in.
For example:
if you want to work in door supervision or as a bouncer, you will need to take the Door Supervision course. This course usually takes about 4-6 days to complete.
There are also specialized courses available for those who wish to work in more niche areas of security, such as close protection, CCTV operation, and retail security. These courses may take longer to complete and may require additional prerequisites, such as prior experience in the field.
It’s important to select a reputable and experienced training provider who can offer high-quality training that will prepare you for your future role.
Some training providers offer intensive courses that can be completed in a shorter amount of time, but it’s important to ensure that these courses meet the minimum requirements set by the SIA.
The Process of Getting SIA Licensed
After completing your SIA course, you will need to apply for your SIA license. This process can take several weeks, so it’s important to plan ahead and apply well in advance of any potential job opportunities.
✅ Pass the SIA training course
This process may take around six days, depending on the type of course. Along with that, a practical assessment and multiple-choice tests are used to evaluate the training course.
✅ Fill out the licence application on the SIA’s website
To start an application, one must pay a fee of £184. Then, the SIA officials will respond to your application within 25 days, but it can take up to 6 weeks in rare circumstances.
✅ Identity verification
The photo ID attached to the SIA application form will have to authenticate your identity. It can be conveniently done at the post office or signed by someone who owns a British passport.
✅ Apply to SIA
The authorities at SIA will perform identity verification and go through your criminal records. You may be asked to show relevant documentation if you have lived abroad for six months or more.
✅ Get your 3-year licence
This licence remains valid for three years. The SIA estimates that it can take up to 25 working days to get the licence. Begin your career as a door supervisor, security guard, or CCTV operator, as you’re officially licenced now.
SIA Licence Renewal
An SIA licence must be renewed every three years, according to SIA. It is prohibited to perform security duties without a license, hence you cannot continue your security services with an expired SIA card. Otherwise, the government will file a lawsuit against you.
Renewing your licence is easy as long as your licence remains valid. You can complete the process online at the security industry authority’s website. You must keep a record of when they expire to continue working legally, as SIA licences don’t renew automatically. So, if your licence expires, you must apply for a new one.
The method for renewing an SIA licence is the same as applying for a new licence. Before renewing, an SIA licence, you must complete an SIA top-up training course. After completion of the course, you can submit an application for licence renewal on the SIA’s official website. The cost of renewing an SIA licence is also £184.
Courses to Renew Your SIA License
✅ Top-Up / Upskilling Door Supervisor
A three-day Door Supervisor Top-Up training is mandatory for people who need to renew their licence to operate in the private security profession in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, you can work as a door supervisor in security companies, hotels, bars, clubs, and other licensed organizations.
✅ Top-Up / Upskilling Security Guard
A half-day Top-Up security Guarding course is compulsory for those who need to renew their licence to work in the private security sector in the United Kingdom. As a security guard, you can work for security companies, banks, museums, hospitals, office buildings, clubs, supermarkets, and other legal places.
In conclusion, the duration of an SIA course in UK can vary depending on the course and training provider you choose.Most commonly required courses such as Security Guarding and Door Supervision can take between 3 to 5 days to complete, while specialized courses may take longer.
However, it’s important to prioritize the quality of training and the reputation of the training provider when selecting a course, as this will ultimately determine your readiness for your future role in the security industry.
