Everything You Need to Know About Our Security Services

Who are the SIA?

The SIA, Security Industry Authority is the public body that regulates the private security industry in the UK.

Who can apply and how?

In order to qualify for a license you must be:

• Age 18+
• Pass an identity check
• Pass a criminal record check
• Have the appropriate SIA recognised licence linked qualification offered by us at FAAS Ltd.
• Have the right to work in the UK

Do the SIA have a role in delivering courses?

No, the SIA does not deliver courses. What the SIA does is set what training needs to cover in the "specifications for learning and qualifications" which can be found on the SIA website.

I have a criminal record, how can I check if I am eligible?

Applicants can go on-line using the SIA’s online criminal records indicator available on the SIA website at www.services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/Pages/licensing-cri.aspx

How do I know if my SIA application is successful?

Once you have completed and passed your course you will apply for a licence on the SIA website. If you are successful you will receive a letter from the SIA informing you of this decision and enclosing your licence. If you are unsuccessful you will receive a letter informing you of this decision and advising you of your options. This process can take up to 25 working days.

How much does an SIA licence cost and how long does it last?

The first licence will cost £190 to apply for 1 licence. Each other licence will cost £184. All licences last for 3 years, after which you will need to renew or top-up your licence.

What is the difference between a door supervisor and a security guard?

The main difference is that door supervisors are required by premises that are open to the public for the consumption of alcohol. They can work in sectors such as licensed restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, etc. A security guard can only work in environments where alcohol is not served.

How long is the door supervisor course?

The Door Supervisor course is a 6-day course that is mandatory to complete before applying for the SIA licence. Please note you must do the First Aid course prior to the course.

How long is the refresher course?

• The Door Supervisor refresher course (compulsory from April 2025) is 3 days.
• The Security Guard refresher course (compulsory from April 2025) is 1 day.
• Please note you must do the First Aid course prior to the refresher course.

How long is the CCTV course?

CCTV is a 3-day course. If you already have a Door Supervisor badge after April 2024, you can be exempt from unit 1, so you only attend 2 days instead of 3, and you take 1 exam instead of 2.

Do you need to have Door Supervisor qualification in order to do CCTV?

No, you do not need any qualifications like security guarding or door supervision to do the CCTV course.

What qualifications do I need to become a door supervisor?

To become a Door Supervisor, you need an SIA Door Supervisor licence. You will need to take the Door Supervisor training course to apply for the licence. It is also mandatory to have a first aid qualification before you start your training course.

Does my qualification or license transfer to other countries?

The SIA Licence is only valid in the UK. You will not be able to use the SIA Licence for work in any other country.

What happens if I fail my course?

Most people pass this course without any problem. But sometimes people fail one or more units of the course. Don’t worry, you can take your re-takes at no extra cost. You only need to re-take the unit you have failed.

Are all the courses listed by FAAS LTD approved by the SIA?

Yes, we make sure all training providers are fully approved and compliant.

Do I need my certificate to apply for an SIA License?

No, you do not need your certificate to apply for the SIA Licence. Your details are passed on to the SIA when you pass the course.

When will I receive my certificate?

Certificates are available via email once the course is complete and results have come through. You may request a physical certificate to be securely delivered at an additional cost of £8.99 (for next day special delivery) or standard post for £4.99.

When will I receive my examination result?

Results are published online within 10-14 working days after your examination date. You will be notified by SMS or email when they are ready to view. In the rare case your results are delayed, we will always keep you informed.

How can I book and pay for the course?

You can book and pay via bank transfer or cash. Please contact us if you would like to make the payment via bank transfer. You can also book a course online at www.faas.org.uk or call us on 07486030532.

Who is this course for?

This course is for individuals wishing to obtain the SIA Door Supervisor Licence and work in the following front-line roles:

• Corporate Security Guarding
• Manned Guarding
• Retail Security Guarding
• Site Security
• Music or Sporting Event Security
• Nightclub / Restaurant Security
• Shopping Centre Security
• Loss Prevention Officer
• Office Building Security Guarding
• and more...

Is it illegal to work without an SIA License?

Yes! If you work as a Door Supervisor in the UK without a valid SIA licence, you are liable to a fine and/or prison time.

Is English language a requirement for the SIA course?

It is a requirement of the SIA, Ofqual, and SIA training Awarding Organisations that learners who take the course have a basic knowledge of the English language. This includes the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English. It is very important that you are able to read, write, and communicate effectively in the English language for the following reasons:

• All assessments are conducted in the medium of English.
• As part of the course requirements, on day 1 of the course you are required to complete a (pass/fail) handwritten incident report based on an example situation provided by your course tutor.