Weekly FAQs – Answers to Common Questions

Read top answers to common questions related to security in our weekly FAQs blog to help you understand the security industry better. 

Welcome to our Weekly FAQs blog, where we provide clear and simple answers to common questions about the security industry. If you’re curious about security, licences, or how things work in this field, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to make understanding the security industry easier for you. Whether you’re just starting or have been in the field for a while, our aim is to provide straightforward insights that anyone can grasp. Let’s dive into the world of security and find answers to your questions in this weekly FAQs blog!

1. What is the duration of the course? – Weekly FAQs

Answer: The duration of the courses is as follows:

Door Supervisor and Security Guard courses: 6 and 4 days respectively.

Top-up Door Supervisor and Top-up Security Guard courses: 2 and 1 day respectively.

CCTV course: 3 days.

The length of our courses varies depending on your specific training needs. For instance, if you’re considering the Door Supervisor or Security Guard courses, they typically span 6 days and 4 days, respectively. 

If you’ve already completed a related course and are looking for a “Top-up course”, those courses are shorter, with the Door Supervisor Top-up taking 2 days and the Security Guard Top-up requiring just 1 day. 

For individuals interested in CCTV training, our course typically runs for 3 days. We understand that everyone’s schedule and learning pace can differ, so we offer these options to assist you according to your requirements effectively. Feel free to explore which course duration suits you best!

2. How long is the certificate valid for? – Question answered!

Answer: Our certificates are like your work permit in security. When you get one, it is valid for three years. This means you have three years to use your skills as a door supervisor, security guard, or in other security jobs. We want to make sure you have enough time to learn and do well in your career. So, you can start your security job knowing your certificate is valid for 3 years and renew it before it expires. 

3. I want to renew my Door Supervisor/Security Guard licence, Which course will I need? – Weekly FAQs

Answer: To renew your Door Supervisor or Security Guard licence, you are required to complete the corresponding Top-up course. A “Top-up course” is a shorter training program designed to renew or update your existing Door Supervisor or Security Guard licence. It will take you only 2 days to complete your course for renewal. 

4. How can I apply for my licence through SIA?

Answer: You can apply for your SIA licence by visiting the SIA website here: https://services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/

Here are the clear steps to apply for an SIA licence:

• Visit the SIA website.
• Register for an account if you’re a new user.
• Log in using your username and password.
• Choose your licence type.
• Complete the online application with accurate details.
• Pay the application fee online.
• Submit the required supporting documents.
• Review and submit your application.
• Wait for processing by the SIA.
• Once approved, receive your SIA licence.

5. I currently hold a Door Supervisor Licence and would like to switch to a Security Guard licence. How can I proceed with this change?

Answer: If you hold a Door Supervisor Licence, you can convert it to a Security Guard Licence by completing the Top-Up Security Guard course.

To switch from a Door Supervisor Licence to a Security Guard Licence, follow these steps:

1. Enroll in the Top-Up Security Guard course.

2. Apply for the Security Guard Licence on the SIA website.

3. Wait for SIA approval.

4. Receive your Security Guard Licence.

This transition allows you to switch roles in the security industry effectively. But to make your choice wiser, we suggest you stick with your door supervisor licence as it has more opportunities in the security industry.

6. Which elements will the course cover?

Answer: Each course consists of various units, and within each unit, multiple elements are addressed. You can find detailed information about these units and their respective contents on our website by selecting your desired course. To make it easier for you we have designed a simple 2 min process that can help you in your decision making.  

7. Hi my licence didn’t show up so it doesn’t let me apply, What do I do?

Answer: If you require information regarding your licence application, you can contact SIA directly by calling 0300 123 9298. We are here to help you every step of the way.

8. My licence expired a month ago, can I still renew my licence by doing a Top-up course?

Answer: It depends on the licence you’re attempting to renew and whether this is the first renewal. The best course of action is to get in touch with SIA and seek their confirmation. Furthermore, you need to get a top-up course for that respective course to renew your security licence. 

9. How can I renew my CCTV licence?

Answer: To renew your CCTV licence, there is no requirement for a Top-Up course. You can simply renew it by submitting your application through SIA.

10. What is the required duration of validity for a First Aid certificate to enrol in the course?

Answer: Your First Aid certificate needs to remain valid for a minimum of 12 months from the date of the course. You can also review the First Aid requirements set by the SIA by visiting the following link: Link to SIA First Aid Training Requirement

In conclusion

Get Licensed is here to solve all of your security-related queries. Feel free to question and find answers in our weekly FAQs blog. Our motive is to make the security industry more accessible, understandable, and straightforward for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for updated certifications or someone just stepping into the security field, we have the answers and resources you need.