SIA Licensing

 The Security Industry Authority (SIA)


SIA the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry.


They have two main duties:


  • The compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking certain designated activities
  • To manage the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme

One of the main duties of the SIA is the compulsory licensing of individuals working in specific sectors of the private security industry. Our remit covers the United Kingdom.

Whether or not an individual requires a licence is determined by the role that is performed and the activity that is undertaken. These are described fully in Section 3 and Schedule 2 of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (as amended).


The activities defined as licensable by the Act are:

  • Manned guarding, which includes:
    • Cash and Valuables in Transit
    • Close Protection
    • Door Supervision
    • Public Space Surveillance (CCTV)
    • Security Guard
  • Immobilisation, restriction and removal of vehicles
  • Key Holding

    • The Private Security Industry Act 2001 (as amended) allows for SIA licensing of private investigation activities, security consultants and precognition agents. However, we do not currently license these activities.


    More information is available from the SIA website here>>