It normally takes six to nine weeks for each application to be processed; this time starts from when a correctly completed application form is received (when we receive a correctly-completed application form we will write to you to let you know). Complex applications (for example, applications subject to Criminal Records Bureau or qualification enquiries and those requiring overseas criminality checks) may take longer than this. Please note: we will only respond to queries regarding the status of an application after a six week period has elapsed.

A decision will then be reached on whether to issue a licence. We will write explaining our decision and, if successfully granted, a licence will be issued to cover you for a period of three years. We can revoke or suspend your licence at any time if you fail to meet the licensing requirements.

When you send us your application form you will also need to send certain supporting documentation - take a look at our checklist for details on what is required.

Cost of a Licence

The licence application fee is £245 for a three year licence. The fee is to cover the cost of processing your application and is not refundable.

If you pay your own application fee you can claim tax relief against your taxable income. For example, if you pay the basic rate of tax the relief is worth £53.90.

Some security operatives may need more than one licence; in such cases the second licence will be discounted by 50%. How does this work?

Request an Application Pack

We are currently making planned improvements to our licensing system. One of those improvements will be the ability to apply for a licence online. Until this service is available you can request an application pack by filling in our online form or calling 0844 892 1025 (lines open 8am until 8pm Mon-Fri).

Please note: clicking the link below will transfer you to our secure server, which will open in a new window. You must be using Internet Explorer 6 (service pack 1) or above, or Netscape 7.02 for the new site to display properly. You can return to this site by closing the new window.

Request an application pack >>

If We Refuse Your Licence Application

If we judge it necessary to refuse your licence application we will write to you, providing the basis for our decision. You will then have twenty-one days from the date on our decision letter to inform us of any factual errors in our assessment - for example, an error of identity, or an error in assessing your qualifications or criminal history. You may also be invited to supply mitigating information such as character references or evidence of your rehabilitation since your offence - our letter will advise you on whether we will consider mitigation in your case.

If we do not receive a response from you within the twenty-one days the decision to refuse you a licence will automatically take effect. We will not write again to confirm this.

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