A Step-by-Step Guide to SIA Top-Up and Refresher Training

For Close Protection Operatives, Door Supervisors, and Security Guards....

With evolving industry standards and updated safety requirements, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) now requires specific top-up or refresher training when renewing certain licences.

This guide provides a clear, chronological process for renewing your licence through the appropriate training route, whether you are a Close Protection Operative, Door Supervisor, or Security Guard.

Close Protection Top-Up Training

Step 1: Check Your Licence Expiry

• Confirm the expiry date of your current SIA Close Protection licence.

• If your licence is due to expire within four months, you are eligible to renew it.

Step 2: Check Eligibility for Top-Up

You must:

• Hold a valid Level 3 First Aid at Work or First Response Emergency Care (FREC) certificate.

• Have held an SIA Close Protection licence (valid or expired within the past 3 years).

Step 3: Book Your Close Protection Top-Up Course

Choose an SIA-accredited training provider offering the Close Protection Top-Up course.

The training includes:

• Terror Threat Awareness

• Physical Intervention Skills Refresher

• First Aid update (if not already current)

• Use of Equipment (including communications and surveillance)

• Working as a Close Protection Operative in the Private Security Industry

Duration: Usually 3–5 days, depending on provider and course format.

Step 4: Attend and Complete the Course

You must:

• Attend all sessions.

• Pass any written and practical assessments.

• Provide ID and evidence of your current or previous licence.

• Submit your first aid certificate if not included in the training.

Step 5: Receive Certification

Once passed, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, which must be submitted during your licence renewal application.

Door Supervisor Refresher Training

Step 1: Check Licence Status

• Ensure your SIA Door Supervisor licence is currently valid or has expired within the past 3 years.

Step 2: Verify First Aid Requirement

You must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work or equivalent certificate (minimum 12 months remaining validity at the time of course).

Step 3: Book the Door Supervisor Refresher Course

The refresher course includes:

• Terror Threat Awareness

• Physical Intervention Refresher

• Use of Communication and Incident Management Skills

• Powers to Search

Duration: Typically 2 days.

Step 4: Attend Training and Assessments

Bring:

• Photographic ID

• Proof of existing Door Supervisor licence

• First aid certificate (if not covered during training)

You must successfully complete:

• Multiple-choice exams

• Practical demonstrations (especially for physical intervention)

Step 5: Receive Your Certificate

Upon completion, your training provider will issue your Refresher Training Certificate, which is mandatory for licence renewal.

Security Guard Refresher Training

Step 1: Confirm Licence Eligibility

• Licence must be valid or expired within the last 3 years.

• You must also meet the first aid requirement.

Step 2: Meet First Aid Criteria

Have a valid Emergency First Aid at Work certificate (or equivalent). This is a pre-requisite for the top-up course.

Step 3: Book Your Top-Up Course

The Security Guard Refresher Training covers:

• Recognising and Responding to Terror Threats

• Effective Incident Reporting

• Communication and Conflict Management

• Updated Legislation and Industry Standards

Duration: Usually 1 day.

Step 4: Attend and Pass the Course

You will:

• Sit a multiple-choice exam.

• Participate in scenario-based discussions.

• Provide ID and first aid certificate.

Step 5: Obtain Your Certificate

Successful candidates will receive their refresher certificate, required for SIA renewal.

Final Step for All Roles: Renewing Your Licence

Once training is complete:

1. Log into your SIA online account

2. Select your licence and begin the renewal application

3. Upload your top-up training and first aid certificates

4. Pay the £184 renewal fee

5. Submit and track your application

6. Await delivery of your updated SIA licence card

   
   

Summary Table

Role	Training Duration	Requirements	Certificate Needed for Renewal
Close Protection	3–5 Days	Valid 1st Aid, Previous Licence	Top-Up + First Aid
Door Supervisor	2 Days	Valid 1st Aid, Previous Licence	Refresher + First Aid
Security Guard	1 Day	Valid 1st Aid, Previous Licence	Refresher + First Aid

Important Reminders

• You cannot work while your licence is expired or pending renewal unless authorised.

• Top-up training is mandatory for licence renewal in affected roles.

• Some training providers offer bundled packages that include the first aid course if needed.

• Always use an SIA-approved training centre to ensure your certificate is recognised.

Conclusion

Dont fall in to the trap of waiting until your licence is a few weeks away from expring to renew it, get it done ASAP.

Top-up and refresher training are now essential components of maintaining your SIA licence.

By following the correct process for your specific licence type, you will remain compliant with current regulations and continue working legally and safely in the private security industry.

For further details or to begin your renewal, visit:🔗 www.gov.uk/guidance/renew-your-sia-licence