Is it illegal to work in security without an SIA licence?

In Great Britain it’s a criminal offence to carry out licensable security work without an SIA licence. This guide explains who needs a licence, the in-house exceptions, what counts as licensable work, common myths, penalties and how to stay compliant—plus a quick note on Northern Ireland’s separate scheme. For compliant cover from SIA-approved professionals who actually care, contact Shoreditch Security for a no-obligation compliance health check today.

10/28/20253 min read

Is it illegal to work in security without an SIA licence?

Short answer: In general, yes

In Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland), it’s a criminal offence to undertake licensable security work without a valid Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. It’s also an offence for a company to deploy someone without the correct licence. The rules are set out in the Private Security Industry Act 2001 and enforced by the SIA.

Northern Ireland runs a separate licensing scheme via the Department of Justice; the principle is the same: if the role is licensable, you must be licensed.

Who needs an SIA licence? If you carry out licensable activity, you need the right SIA licence for that activity.

A note on “in-house”: If you’re directly employed by, say, a retailer or venue, in-house security guarding may not require a licence. Door supervision and public space CCTV do, even when in-house. If in doubt, ask.

What counts as “working in security”? You’re likely doing licensable work if you:

Control entry at a pub, club or licensed event, make entry/refusal decisions, conduct searches, or physically eject people (door supervision).
Guard premises or property against unauthorised access or disorder, deter theft, detain suspects, or patrol with the intent to protect (security guarding).
Monitor CCTV of public areas to spot individuals and direct a response (public space surveillance).
Hold keys and attend alarms (key holding).
Manage or deploy operatives who are doing any of the above (non-front-line).

Activities that are typically not licensable include purely concierge-style meet-and-greet without any guarding or enforcement; event stewarding that is strictly information and wayfinding with no searching, refusal, or ejections; or CCTV used solely for process control or health and safety where you’re not tracking the public or directing a security response. Be careful: roles can cross the line very quickly once you start enforcing, searching, or ejecting.

The legal bit: offences and penalties

It is a criminal offence to engage in licensable conduct without the appropriate SIA licence.
It is a criminal offence for a business to deploy or supply unlicensed individuals in licensable roles.
Penalties can include prosecution, an unlimited fine, and up to 6 months’ imprisonment. Expect knock-on damage too: failed audits, invalidated insurance, contract termination, and reputational harm.

Common myths that catch people out

“I can work while my renewal is processing.” You can only work while your current licence is still valid. There’s no grace period after expiry. Apply up to 4 months before it runs out.
“I can do a trial shift or shadowing on the door.” Observing is fine. As soon as you perform licensable duties (search, refuse entry, intervene), you’re breaking the law unless licensed.
“I’m a volunteer, so I don’t need a licence.” Volunteers are often out of scope, but the moment there’s payment, reward, or you’re supplied under contract, licensing can be required. For door supervision and public space CCTV, venues should use licensed staff regardless. Always check your specific circumstances.
“Borrowing a mate’s badge is okay in a pinch.” It isn’t. Using someone else’s licence or letting someone use yours is a serious offence and can end careers.

Practical pointers for staying compliant

Confirm the role and pick the right licence. Door supervision covers more (including licensed premises), security guarding is narrower.
Get the pre-requisites done. Emergency First Aid at Work (or equivalent) is required before taking SIA door supervision or security guarding training.
Complete SIA-approved training with a reputable provider and pass the assessments.
Apply early. Budget for the fee (currently £184), complete the background and identity checks, and allow time for processing.
Display your licence when working in a front-line role.
For managers: use the SIA Licence Checker to verify every operative, keep records, and audit sub-contractors. No licence, no deployment.

How Shoreditch Security does it differently

Quality you can feel. Our SIA-approved, highly trained security personnel actually care. We choose for skill and for character: approachable, respectful, and calm under pressure.
Security is personal. We build strong relationships with clients, keep communication open, and stay responsive so there are no surprises—only dependable cover and compliant operations.

Final word

Is it illegal to work in security without an SIA licence? For licensable roles across Great Britain, yes—full stop. Don’t risk it. Get the right licence, verify your teams, and partner with a provider that treats compliance and culture with equal seriousness.

If you’d like a quick compliance health check, help choosing the right licence, or dependable SIA-licensed cover, let’s talk. Contact Shoreditch Security today for a no-obligation chat and discover the difference a quality, people-first security team can make to your site.