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 currently covers England, Wales and Scotland.

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 investigators, security consultants and precognition agents. However, we do not currently license these activities.

If you would like to see how the licensing process is going please take a look at our licensing statistics.

Our approach to licensing is evolving over time, so do keep an eye on this section for the latest news. Alternatively you may wish to sign up for information so that you can be kept up-to-date with the latest developments.