SIA Training vs Security Guard Jobs — What’s the Difference?
A lot of people looking to get into security work in the UK get confused by the terms.
Here’s the clear breakdown between SIA training, licensing, and the job of a security guard.
✅ Step 1: You Need Training to Get Licensed
You can’t become a legal security guard in the UK without:
✔ Completing an SIA-approved course
✔ Getting a valid SIA Licence
Think of training as step one, and the job as step three.
What Is SIA Training?
SIA training means taking an approved course in one of these roles:
- Security Guard – daytime, unlicensed premises
- Door Supervisor – covers most public-facing jobs
- CCTV Operator – monitoring systems
- Close Protection – bodyguard work
- Top-Up Training – for renewals
Once passed, you apply for your SIA Licence.
What Is a Security Guard Job?
A security guard job typically involves:
✔ Patrolling premises
✔ Preventing theft or damage
✔ Managing access points
✔ Reporting incidents
✔ Sometimes monitoring CCTV
It’s a regulated job — you must have an SIA Licence to be employed legally.
Training Doesn’t Equal a Job — But It Opens Doors
🟢 Finishing SIA training and getting licensed means you’re eligible to work
🟢 You still need to find a role through a company or agency
🟢 Employers will often prefer licensed candidates who’ve passed recently
What If You Do the Training but Don’t Work?
That’s fine — your licence is valid for 3 years. Some people train in advance, others wait for the right opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Training gets you certified. The licence makes you legal. The job gives you experience. All three steps work together — and the first one starts with choosing the right course.