SIA Licence types are primarily divided into two main categories:

1. Front Line Licence
The front-line licence is necessary for individuals who personally perform a licensable front-line activity as part of their job. This requirement applies to all job roles, including employees, managers, and directors. However, the covert activity job roles such as store detectives are an exception, and the licence need not be displayed. Most front-line licences are in the form of a plastic photocard that must be worn while working. The key holding licence is the only exception that comes in the form of a letter.

2. Non-Front Line Licence
This type of SIA licence is required for support personnel who contribute to security operations behind the scenes by assisting with administration, monitoring systems, and providing logistical assistance. Additionally, directors and partners of companies or firms where other directors, partners, or employees perform such activities must have a non-front-line licence. This type of licence is in the form of a letter.

Under these two licences, there are seven distinct categories of SIA licences, each allowing you to work in a different sector of the security industry. These include:

● Door Supervision: Highly trained professionals who ensure safety and order at entrances (front line). They are mostly skilled in crowd management, conflict resolution, and ID verification.

● Public Space Surveillance (CCTV): Experts in monitoring and analysing surveillance footage to maintain public safety and deter criminal activities in public areas (front line).

● Close Protection: Elite security personnel who provide discreet and comprehensive protection to individuals at risk, employing advanced risk assessment and defensive techniques (front line).

● Security Guarding: Vigilant guards maintain security and safeguard premises, assets, and people (front line). Security guards are trained in access control, emergency response, and risk assessment.

● Key Holding Services: They are trusted custodians of keys, offering swift and secure access to properties during emergencies or for authorised purposes (non front line).

● Vehicle Immobilisation: Skilled operators proficient in immobilising vehicles, employing specialised techniques to enforce parking regulations and maintain order (non front line).

These licences are specific to the security fields they cover and allow you to operate legally in the United Kingdom. You must choose the appropriate course for your requirements, as each licence has a distinct curriculum.

You can prove to employers in the security industry that you have what it takes to do your job by earning an SIA licence.

With a bit of effort and commitment, you can join the ranks of professionally qualified and licenced security personnel, regardless of your background or experience.