Common Mistakes To Avoid When Applying For An SIA Licence

Obtaining an SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence is a crucial step for individuals looking to start their career in the security sector. However, the SIA licence application process can be daunting, with potential pitfalls that applicants must navigate. To ensure a successful application, we will discuss common errors people often make when applying for an SIA licence.

Criminal Records Check

Passing this check is crucial for obtaining an SIA licence. You can have a criminal record and still get a licence if certain conditions are met. The SIA is not bound by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, so you must declare spent convictions, warnings, cautions, admonishments, or pending charges.
Watch this video to check your eligibility, ensuring accurate information to get a helpful result. If you’ve lived outside the UK for over 6 months, you’ll need to provide criminal records checks for each country you have lived in.

Failure to Disclose Criminal Convictions

A significant blunder is concealing or inaccurately reporting past criminal convictions. Honesty is key in the SIA licence application. Concealing convictions can lead to immediate rejection.  Remember, the SIA have access to all of this information already, so you are best off being honest here and declare any and all offences. Lying will only delay your application process. 

Document Accuracy and Completeness

Accurate and complete documentation is essential for a smooth application process. Missing or incorrect information on your application can lead to rejection. Ensure that all documents, including proof of identity and training certificates, are up to date, legible, and correctly formatted.

Staying Informed about SIA Updates

The SIA frequently updates its regulations and requirements. Neglecting these updates can lead to issues in your application. Staying informed through external research and checking the official SIA website is vital to ensure your application aligns with current standards.

Seeking Professional Guidance

One of the best ways to avoid common pitfalls is to seek professional guidance. We offer an SIA Expert Helpline where our dedicated team will help you complete your SIA application without any mistakes.  

Other Common Mistakes

Some other common mistakes when applying for your SIA Licence include:
Entering their middle name in the forename field. For example if your name is David Lee Rodgers, your first name would be David, middle name Lee and Surname Rodgers. 

If your drivers licence has an abbreviated name on it – for example MD is short for Mohammad. If this is the case, you would fill out your name so it matches your Drivers licence and put MD as your forename and any other names in the middle name and surname field. 

Basically, the name on your ID documents, qualification and the application have to be the exact same! 

If you’re getting a message saying your qualification is not linked, there could be an error with how you’ve entered your name, like the previous mistake mentioned, or an error with the qualification. If you think it’s the former, get in contact with us and we usually aim to resolve within 3-5 days.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a successful SIA licence application and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in security.

How to get an SIA Licence

To get your SIA licence, you can book and complete one of Get Licensed security training courses. Our comprehensive training programs, expert training partners and the GuardPass app, give you everything you need to pass your SIA Training course and their exams.  Whether you’re pursuing a career as a door supervisor, security guard, or CCTV operator, our courses provide the essential tools to thrive in the security industry.