What Is SIA Frontline Security?
London Security College
April 11, 2025
By London Security College Is Your Licence Near to Expire? SIA Refresher Training + First
By London Security College
What Is SIA Frontline Security?
Is Your Licence Near to Expire?
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What Is SIA Frontline Security? Start a Career in the Security Industry in the UK
If you’re considering a new career or looking for a stable, flexible, and rewarding job, frontline security in the UK could be the perfect fit. With rising demand for skilled professionals to protect people, property, and assets, the security industry is booming — and becoming a licensed Security Industry Authority (SIA) frontline security officer is a great way to enter the field
In this blog, we’ll break down what SIA frontline security means, the types of roles you can work in, how to get licensed, and why now is a great time to start your career in the UK’s security industry.
What Is SIA Frontline Security?
SIA frontline security refers to roles where security professionals interact directly with the public or protect premises in an operational capacity. These roles require an SIA licence issued by the Security Industry Authority, the UK government body responsible for regulating the private security industry.
A frontline licence allows you to carry out specific duties such as:
Guarding property and people
Patrolling premises
Monitoring CCTV systems
Controlling access to venues or buildings
Intervening in conflicts or preventing criminal activity
To work legally in any of these areas, you must hold the correct SIA licence for the role.
Types of SIA Frontline Licences
There are several types of SIA frontline licences, each related to different job roles. Here are the most popular:
1. Door Supervisor Licence
This is one of the most common licences. Door Supervisors work at pubs, nightclubs, events, and other licensed premises where alcohol is served. This licence also allows you to work as a Security Guard, so it gives you flexibility.
2. Security Guard Licence
Security Guards work in offices, shops, industrial sites, and other premises that don’t involve licensed entertainment or alcohol sales. This licence is more limited than the Door Supervisor one.
3. CCTV Public Space Surveillance Licence
With this licence, you can legally monitor CCTV footage in public or private places to protect against theft, vandalism, or other security threats.
4. Close Protection Licence
With this licence, you can legally monitor CCTV footage in public or private places to protect against theft, vandalism, or other security threats.
Why Choose a Career in Security?
Security work in the UK offers a wide range of benefits:
Job Stability: Security is essential to many industries, including retail, transport, entertainment, construction, and healthcare.
Flexibility: You can choose full-time, part-time, or weekend shifts to suit your lifestyle.
Opportunities for Growth: With experience, you can progress to roles such as team leader, supervisor, control room operator, or even security manager.
Variety of Environments: From nightclubs to shopping centres, construction sites to corporate offices, every day is different.
Transferable Skills: Conflict management, communication, and observation skills gained in security are valuable in many other sectors.
How to Start Your Career in SIA Frontline Security
Starting your career in frontline security involves a few simple steps:
1. Choose the Right Role
Think about where you want to work. If you’re interested in nightlife venues or event security, the Door Supervisor licence is ideal. If you want to work in retail or corporate buildings, a Security Guard licence might suit you better. For CCTV monitoring jobs, go for the CCTV licence.
2. Complete an SIA-Approved Training Course
You must complete a government-approved training course before applying for your SIA licence. These courses typically take 3–6 days and include units on:
Working in the private security industry
Conflict management
Physical intervention (for Door Supervisors)
Communication skills
Emergency procedures
Terror threat awareness
3. Pass Identity and Criminal Record Checks
You’ll need to prove your identity and go through a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Some minor offences might not disqualify you, but serious or recent convictions could impact your application.
4. Apply for Your SIA Licence
Once you’ve passed the course, you can apply for your licence on the SIA website. The application fee is £184 (as of 2025), and the licence lasts for three years. Most applicants receive a decision within 25 working days.
Entry-Level Pay and Career Progression
Most entry-level security officers in the UK earn between £10.50 – £13 per hour, depending on location and the type of work. Some high-risk or night shift roles can pay more.
As you gain experience and additional qualifications, your earning potential increases. Roles such as Security Supervisor, Control Room Operator, and Site Manager can earn between £28,000 – £40,000 annually.
Start Your Journey Today
The UK security industry is growing rapidly, with thousands of licensed roles available across the country. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, a second income, or a long-term career path, becoming an SIA licensed frontline security officer is a great way to get your foot in the door.
Training providers like London Security College and others offer flexible, affordable courses designed to get you licensed and job-ready in just one week.
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