by

UK Close Protection Licensing & Compliance Guide (2026)

Operating as a Close Protection Operative (CPO) in the UK requires compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. This guide provides a clear, factual overview of licensing requirements, regulatory obligations, and professional standards that affect both self-employed operators and small companies.

SIA Licensing Requirements

To work legally as a Close Protection Operative in the UK:

SIA Close Protection Licence

  • Mandatory for all operatives providing close protection services.
  • Requires completion of an approved SIA CP course.
  • Licences are issued under the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and must be renewed periodically.

     

Eligibility Checks

  • Criminal records check: Convictions and cautions are considered.
  • Age: Must be 18 or over.
  • Right to work in the UK: Operatives must have legal employment status.

Ongoing Compliance

  • Operators must maintain up-to-date personal details with the SIA.

  • Refresher, top-up or additional SIA training may be mandated as new requirements arise.

👉 Read: New CPO Refresher Training (2026)

Insurance & Professional Obligations

While licensing permits operation, insurance is separate but essential:

  • Public liability and professional indemnity insurance are standard.
  • Self-employed operators or small companies must ensure coverage matches the scope of work.
  • Client contracts may require confirmation of valid insurance.

👉 Read: Insurance for Security Professionals

Training & Refresher Requirements

  • Initial SIA-approved CP training is mandatory.
  • Operators must stay current with any SIA refresher requirements (FROS, medical standards if updated).
  • Training ensures competence in operational planning, risk assessment, and lawful conduct.

👉 Read: Close Protection Training Providers (UK, 2026 Guide)

Regulatory & Operational Standards

Operators are expected to:

  • Comply with all relevant UK laws, including Health & Safety, Employment, and Data Protection where applicable.
  • Act professionally at all times, maintaining discretion and client confidentiality.
  • Keep accurate operational records as part of audit and accountability practices.

👉 Read: Record Keeping for Security Professionals

Summary

Being compliant in the UK Close Protection sector is not optional, it is the foundation of professional credibility and legal operation.
Operators must ensure they hold a valid SIA licence, maintain insurance, complete approved training, and adhere to operational standards.

Read next:
👉 UK Close Protection Guide (2026)
👉 The Modern Close Protection Operative


Ready to Get Started?


Visit our Close Protection Hub