The security industry is evolving rapidly, and with it comes a fresh set of requirements that every professional needs to understand. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has rolled out significant changes to licensing requirements, If you’re working in security, or planning to, these updates will directly impact your career path.
Let’s break down exactly what’s happening, when these changes take effect, and most importantly, what you need to do to stay compliant and competitive in today’s security market.
The Big Picture: Why These Changes Matter
Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth understanding why the SIA has implemented these new requirements. The security industry isn’t the same as it was five or ten years ago. We’re dealing with new threats, advanced technology, evolving legal frameworks, and changing public expectations.
The SIA recognised that a “set it and forget it” approach to licensing simply wasn’t cutting it anymore. Security professionals needed ongoing training to:
- Stay current with emerging threats – From cyber security concerns to evolving physical security challenges
- Master new technologies – Modern security systems require updated skills and knowledge
- Understand legal changes – Security law continues to evolve, and professionals must stay informed
- Maintain public safety standards – The ultimate goal is keeping people safe, and that requires continuous improvement
Think of it like a doctor or solicitor maintaining their professional development, the security industry is finally catching up with other professions that have long required ongoing education.
What’s Changed for Door Supervisors and Security Guards
The April 2025 Milestone
The most significant change has already taken effect. Since 1st April 2025, anyone renewing their door supervisor or security guard licence must complete mandatory refresher training. This isn’t optional, it’s now a legal requirement.
Here’s what this means in practical terms:
Before April 2025: You could renew your licence by simply paying the fee and passing background checks.
After April 2025: You must complete refresher training before your licence renewal will be approved.
The First Aid Prerequisite
There’s another crucial requirement that catches many people off guard: you must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or equivalent) before you can even book your refresher training.
This isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. The SIA recognises that security professionals are often first responders in emergency situations. Whether you’re managing a medical emergency at a nightclub, dealing with an incident at a retail location, or responding to an alarm activation, having current first aid skills could literally save lives.
Accepted qualifications include:
- First Aid at Work (FAW)
- First Person on Scene (FPOS)
- First Response Emergency Care (FREC)
Your training provider can advise you on which qualification best suits your needs, but the key point is ensuring your first aid certification is current before attempting to book refresher training.
Flexibility in Licence Types
One interesting development is the flexibility the SIA has introduced around licence switching. If you currently hold a door supervisor licence, you have options when renewal time comes:
- Stay the course: Complete door supervisor refresher training and renew your existing licence
- Switch roles: Complete security guard refresher training and switch to a security guard licence
This flexibility recognises that career paths in security aren’t always linear, and professionals might want to pivot between different roles based on opportunities or personal preferences.
Close Protection: The 2026 Changes
Close protection operatives have a bit more time to prepare, but significant changes are coming their way too.
Timeline for Close Protection Changes
- 1st October 2025: New refresher training becomes available
- 1st April 2026: Refresher training becomes mandatory for licence renewals
This six-month window gives close protection professionals time to plan and book their training without the rush that some door supervisors and security guards experienced.
Higher First Aid Standards
Close protection work demands higher standards across the board, and first aid requirements reflect this reality. Close protection operatives must hold a Level 3 first aid qualification before taking their refresher training.
Acceptable qualifications include:
- Level 3 First Aid at Work (FAW)
- Level 3 First Person on Scene (FPOS)
- Level 3 First Response Emergency Care (FREC)
The higher standard makes sense when you consider the nature of close protection work. These professionals often operate in high-risk environments where immediate, advanced first aid response could be critical.
Career Flexibility for Close Protection Professionals
Similar to the door supervisor/security guard flexibility, close protection licence holders also have options:
- Maintain specialisation: Complete close protection refresher training and renew your close protection licence
- Broaden your scope: Complete door supervisor refresher training and switch to a door supervisor licence
This second option is particularly interesting for close protection professionals who might want to diversify their skill set or explore different areas of the security industry.
The Historical Context: Understanding the Journey
These changes didn’t happen overnight. The SIA has been systematically updating the industry over several years:
2021: The Foundation Changes
In 2021, the SIA introduced updated qualifications for most security sectors (except close protection and vehicle immobilisation). They also made Emergency First Aid at Work a prerequisite for door supervisor and security guard training.
This was the first major signal that the industry was moving toward higher standards and ongoing professional development.
2022: Close Protection Updates
Close protection got its turn in 2022 with updated qualifications and top-up training requirements. By this point, it was clear the SIA was committed to raising standards across all sectors.
2025-2026: The Refresher Revolution
The current changes represent the culmination of this multi-year effort. The introduction of mandatory refresher training for renewals is perhaps the most significant shift in SIA licensing since the system was established.
What This Means for Your Career
For Current Licence Holders
If you’re already working in the security industry, these changes require proactive planning:
Check your renewal date: Don’t wait until the last minute. Factor in time for first aid training, booking refresher courses, and completing the training well before your licence expires.
Budget accordingly: Refresher training and first aid courses represent additional costs. Build these into your professional development budget.
Stay informed: The SIA continues to refine these requirements. Follow official channels and reputable training providers for updates.
For New Entrants
If you’re just entering the security industry, you’re actually in a good position. You’ll be trained to current standards from day one, and the refresher requirement won’t affect you for three years.
However, it’s worth understanding that ongoing professional development is now part of the security career landscape. Factor this into your career planning and budget expectations.
For Employers
Security companies need to support their teams through these transitions. This might mean:
- Budgeting for employee training costs
- Planning work schedules around training requirements
- Ensuring all team members understand the new requirements
- Working with training providers to arrange group bookings or on-site training where possible
Practical Steps: What You Need to Do
Step 1: Assess Your Current Status
- Check your licence expiry date
- Verify your first aid certification status
- Determine which type of refresher training you need
Step 2: Plan Your Training
- Book first aid training if needed (remember, this must be completed before refresher training)
- Research approved training providers in your area
- Book refresher training well in advance of your licence expiry
Step 3: Budget and Schedule
- Factor in costs for both first aid and refresher training
- Allow time off work for training days
- Consider any travel costs if training isn’t available locally
Step 4: Complete and Document
- Attend all required training sessions
- Keep certificates and documentation safe
- Submit your licence renewal application with all required documentation
The Bigger Picture: Industry Professionalisation
These changes represent more than just additional training requirements, they’re part of a broader effort to professionalise the security industry.
Raising Standards
By requiring ongoing training, the SIA is sending a clear message that security work requires continuous professional development, just like other skilled professions.
Public Confidence
Higher training standards should translate to better service delivery and increased public confidence in security professionals.
Career Development
Ongoing training creates opportunities for career advancement and specialisation within the security industry.
Industry Recognition
As standards rise, the security industry gains greater recognition as a professional career path rather than just a job.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
While the current changes are significant, the security industry continues to evolve. We can expect:
Technology Integration
Future training requirements will likely include more technology-focused content as security systems become increasingly sophisticated.
Specialisation Opportunities
As the industry matures, we may see more specialised training pathways and licence categories.
International Standards
The UK’s approach to security licensing may influence international standards and create opportunities for UK-trained professionals abroad.
Continuous Evolution
The SIA has demonstrated its commitment to keeping pace with industry changes. Expect ongoing refinements and updates to training requirements.
Making the Transition Smooth
Change can be challenging, but these new requirements ultimately benefit everyone in the security industry. Here are some tips for making the transition as smooth as possible:
Start Early
Don’t wait until your licence is about to expire. Begin planning your refresher training well in advance.
Choose Quality Training
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, invest in quality training that will genuinely enhance your skills and knowledge. We would highly recommend Team Security Services UK Limited for the Hampshire area for all of your training needs. Visit their website at www.teamsecurity.co.uk/security-courses/, by emailing info@teamsecurity.uk or by calling 02380 871 763 for further information.
Network and Learn
Use training sessions as networking opportunities. Connect with other professionals and learn from their experiences.
Stay Positive
View these requirements as an investment in your professional development rather than just another hurdle to overcome.
Keep Learning
The refresher training is just the minimum requirement. Consider additional professional development opportunities to stay ahead of the curve.
The Bottom Line
The SIA’s new training requirements represent a significant shift in how the security industry operates. While these changes require time, effort, and investment from security professionals, they ultimately serve to elevate the entire industry.
For those already working in security, the message is clear: ongoing professional development is now part of the job. Plan accordingly, budget appropriately, and embrace the opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge.
For those considering a career in security, these changes signal that you’re entering a profession that values continuous improvement and professional growth. That’s something to be excited about.
The security industry is more professional, more skilled, and more respected than ever before. These new SIA requirements are helping to ensure it stays that way.
Whether you’re a seasoned security professional or just starting your career, staying informed about these changes and planning your training accordingly will keep you compliant, competitive, and ready for whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead in the evolving world of security.
Remember, these requirements aren’t just about ticking boxes – they’re about ensuring you have the skills, knowledge, and qualifications to excel in your security career while keeping the public safe. That’s a goal worth investing in.
This blog post reflects the current understanding of SIA requirements as of September 2025. Always check the official SIA website for the most up-to-date information and consult with approved training providers for specific guidance on your situation.
