SIA Licence Renewal
Operating a security business in the UK necessitates ensuring all staff hold valid SIA licences. While obtaining initial licences is crucial, maintaining their validity is equally important. This guide will delve into the intricacies of SIA licence renewal, offering essential information for security companies and their employees.
When do I need to renew my SIA licence?
After three years, individuals holding an SIA licence must renew it to continue working in regulated security roles.
Licence holders must keep track of their licence expiration date and begin the renewal process well before the expiration date to avoid any disruptions in their employment. The SIA usually sends out reminders to licence holders when it's time to renew, but it's the individual's responsibility to ensure they renew on time.
The renewal process may involve updating personal information, providing evidence of continued training or qualifications, and paying the required renewal fee. Failure to renew the SIA licence on time may result in the individual having to stop working in the regulated security role until the renewal process is completed.
How much does it cost to renew your SIA licence?
The cost of renewing an SIA licence is the same as getting your licence the first time around, so £184 per application. Remember that this is non-refundable, so make sure everything is accurate in your application before you send it to SIA and get started.
How long do you get to renew your SIA licence?
You need to renew SIA licences before their expiration date, which you can do up to four months before, so get started early if you can. Early renewal does not affect your licence's end date; any remaining time on your licence at renewal will be added to your new one.
If your SIA licence has expired entirely, you cannot renew it. You’ll instead need to apply for a new one, which is the same price but may require additional qualifications or your ability to show that you’ve undertaken an accredited training course. You also legally cannot work in your previously licensed role until the new licence is granted, which can take a long time. So again, get started early on your application process if you can.
How to renew your SIA licence
If your current licence expires, you should follow these steps to renew your SIA licence in the UK:
Check eligibility: Ensure that you are eligible for licence renewal. You must still be working in a regulated security role, and your current SIA licence should be within its renewal period (usually four months before the expiration date).
Create an online account: If you don't have one already, create one on the SIA's website (https://www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk) by providing the necessary details.
Access your account: Log in to your SIA online account using your credentials.
Complete the renewal form: Once logged in, navigate to the licence renewal section and complete the renewal application form. You'll need to update your personal information to match your previous SIA licence application and provide any relevant documentation, such as proof of continued training or qualifications.
Pay the renewal fee: You will be required to pay the licence fee during the application process. The licence renewal costs may vary based on the type of licence you hold.
Submit the SIA licence application: Review all the information you provided and submit your renewal application.
Await confirmation: The SIA will process your application. If everything is in order, they will renew your licence and send you a confirmation email or letter.
Receive your new licence: Once your application is approved, you will receive your renewed SIA licence. It's crucial to keep this updated licence with you while working in a regulated security role.
Remember that it is your responsibility to initiate the renewal process in a timely manner. Ideally, you should begin the renewal process at least three months before your current SIA licence expires to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any gaps in your licensure.
Please note that licensing procedures may change over time, so it's essential to verify the most up-to-date information and see the official SIA licence renewal guide.
How can PARiM help with SIA licence renewal?
PARiM is a workforce management software with specific features tailored for the security industry that will help both managers and staff members stay up to date with SIA licence expirations.
Automated Licence Reminders: Both managers and staff receive automated notifications about upcoming licence expirations, ensuring everyone stays proactive with renewals.
Centralised Document Management: Our secure platform allows for easy storage, access, and verification of all staff licences and certifications, reducing administrative burdens for managers and offering staff transparency over their compliance documents.
Real-Time Updates: Managers get immediate notifications on licence status and document uploads, facilitating prompt action on compliance matters.
Seamless Communication: PARiM facilitates communication between managers and staff. Staff can notify managers of licence renewals and document uploads, ensuring everyone remains informed.
By automating reminders and centralising document storage, PARiM minimises the risk of expired licenses and non-compliance issues. Staff benefit from a more efficient process for uploading and accessing their documents, while both managers and staff gain increased transparency through clear visibility into licence status and compliance information. Ultimately, this comprehensive approach to licence management contributes to a well-organized and compliant security workforce, fostering a strong foundation for your security operations.
