SIA Licence Renewal and Refresher Qualifications: What to Expect in 2025

If your SIA Door Supervision Licence is set to expire in 2025, it’s time to start planning for renewal. Unlike some processes, your licence will not renew automatically. To continue working legally after the expiry date, you must renew it yourself. If you have already submitted your renewal application, you can disregard SIA notice to you.

For those who holding Close Protection, Door Supervisor, or Security Guard licences, additional training may be required before renewal. Below, we break down the essential steps to help you through the process seamlessly.

✅How to Renew Your SIA Licence

You can apply to renew your SIA licence up to four months before the expiry date. We strongly recommend applying early to avoid any disruption to your work. Submitting your application ahead of time allows for smoother processing and reduces the risk of your licence expiring before a decision is made.

Good news: Renewing early won’t cost you any extra time. Any remaining validity on your current licence will roll over, and your new licence will take effect from the day it’s granted.

Application Fee: The renewal fee is £184, the same as a new licence. However, if you hold another valid SIA licence, you may qualify for a 50% discount. More details are available on SIA website.

Employer Involvement: Before applying, consult your employer. Some employers cover the application fee or manage the renewal process on behalf of their staff.

Identity Verification: Even if you already hold a licence, identity verification is required every time you apply. Where possible, we conduct this electronically. If not, you may need to present documents at a post office, your workplace, or send them directly.

✅Close Protection Licence Renewal

To renew a close protection licence, you must have:

• A valid First Aid qualification

• One of the following: The New Qualification introduced on April 1, 2022

• An Older Qualification plus the relevant ‘Top-Up’ training

Alternative Option: You can switch to a Door Supervisor licence during the renewal process. The system will give you this option when you apply.
Training Duration:

• Close Protection Top-Up Training: 5 days

• Door Supervisor Top-Up Training: 2 days

✅Door Supervisor or Security Guard Licence Renewal

To renew your Door Supervisor or Security Guard Licence, you must have:

• A valid First Aid qualification (EFAW or equivalent)

• One of the following: The New Qualification introduced on April 1, 2021

• An Older Qualification plus the relevant ‘Top-Up’ training

If you do not work at Licenced Premises, you can switch from a Door Supervisor Licence to a Security Guard Licence during renewal.
Training Duration:

• Security Guard Top-Up Training: Half a day

• Door Supervisor Top-Up Training: 2 days

Consider your current and future job responsibilities when deciding. If your work involves Licensed venues (such as pubs or clubs), a Door Supervisor Licence is necessary.

✅What Happens if You Don’t Renew?

Once your licence expires, you will no longer be legally allowed to work in a licensable role. If your licence lapses, renewal will no longer be an option, and you will need to submit a brand-new application.

Remember, the same checks apply to both new applications and renewals. Plan ahead to ensure uninterrupted work and compliance.

For further details, visit SIA website or contact them  directly. Secure your future today by staying proactive with your SIA licence renewal.

✅Important Changes Coming in April 2025: Stay Ahead with Updated Training Requirements

Starting from April 1, 2025, it will be mandatory to complete a ‘Refresher’ qualification to renew your Door Supervisor or Security Guard Licence. This  New SIA Top-Up Refresher replaces the previous Top-up training will be available beginning October 1, 2024.

Before registering for the Refresher Course, you must hold an up-to-date Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or an equivalent). Be sure to have this qualification ready when registering with your training provider.

✅What Does This Mean for You?

If you hold a Door Supervisor Licence, you have two options:

1. Complete the Door Supervisor Refresher Training and renew your existing door supervisor licence.
2. Take the Security Guard Refresher Training and switch to a Security Guard licence.

In either case, having an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or equivalent) is a requirement to begin the refresher training.

✅First Aid Training Requirements

• If you’re applying for a licence for the first time or if your previous licence has expired for over three years, First Aid Training is required.
• For licence renewals, Emergency First Aid at Work (or an equivalent) is necessary.

Equivalents to Emergency First Aid at Work include:

• First Aid at Work (FAW)
• First Person on Scene (FPOS)
• First Response Emergency Care (FREC)

Your training provider will help you determine which qualifications meet the required standards.

For Close Protection Operatives, a Level 3 First Aid qualification or higher is mandatory. This includes:

• Level 3 FAW
• Level 3 FPOS
• Level 3 FREC

✅Other Key Changes

Enhanced Course Content
SIA refreshed the training materials, moving some to a common unit for all security operatives (except close protection), which now covers:

• Terror threat awareness
• Emergency response protocols

Additionally, new sector-specific content has been introduced:

• Door Supervision now includes training on body-worn video recorders and breathalysers.
• Public Space Surveillance (CCTV) courses cover updated operational procedures and legal requirements.
• Security Guarding now includes personal safety strategies.
• Close Protection includes tailored physical intervention training and additional door supervision content.

More Practical Assessments
Have been added more practical assessments to help learners apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. These include:

• Searching
• Conflict management
• Report writing
• Using communication devices
• Physical intervention skills for close protection operatives

Stay ahead by completing your required qualifications and training. Whether you’re renewing your licence or starting fresh, ensure you meet the latest requirements for a smooth and successful career in private security.