SIA Refresher Training 2026: What Security Professionals Need to Know (Complete Guide)
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has introduced mandatory refresher training requirements that will reshape professional security standards across the UK. These changes affect every licensed security professional, with critical deadlines approaching in 2026.
Get ready now. Your license renewal depends on it.
Who Must Complete SIA Refresher Training
The refresher training requirement applies to all SIA license holders across multiple categories:
Door Supervisors – Must complete two-day refresher courses when renewing licenses. This includes comprehensive physical intervention training.
Security Guards – Required to complete one-day refresher training covering essential safety-critical skills.
Close Protection Officers – Face the April 1, 2026 deadline. All license renewals after this date require completed refresher training.
CCTV Operators – Must update surveillance technology knowledge and legal compliance requirements.
Cash & Valuables Transport Personnel – Required refresher training covers modern security threats and procedures.
The SIA estimates thousands of security professionals need refresher training before their next license renewal. Don't wait until the last minute.
Critical Deadlines You Cannot Miss
April 1, 2025 – Door supervisors and security guards already face mandatory requirements.
April 1, 2026 – Close protection operatives must complete refresher training for any license renewal after this date.
October 1, 2025 – New refresher qualification became available for close protection roles.
License holders can complete training early. The SIA encourages this proactive approach to avoid renewal complications.
Book your refresher training now. Waiting until renewal creates unnecessary stress and potential delays.
What's Included in Your Refresher Training
Terror Threat Awareness
Every refresher course includes updated terror threat recognition and response training. You'll learn to identify, respond to, and report potential threats effectively.
Physical Intervention Skills
Door supervisors and close protection operatives receive comprehensive physical intervention updates. Training includes both knowledge components and practical skill assessments.
Advanced Searching Techniques
Updated search procedures cover modern security screening methods. Learn efficient yet thorough techniques for effective security checks.
Vulnerability Awareness Training
This represents a significant new focus area. Training covers:
- Recognizing and protecting vulnerable people
- Mental health awareness
- Identifying sexual predator behaviors
- Stopping spiking incidents
- Supporting elderly and disabled individuals
Modern Security Challenges
The curriculum addresses contemporary threats including:
- Cybersecurity awareness and phishing protection
- Digital incident reporting procedures
- Updated CCTV and surveillance compliance
- Emergency first aid for modern threats (stabbings, acid attacks)
Prerequisites You Need Before Training
Valid First Aid Qualification – All candidates must hold current first aid certification before attending refresher training.
Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) Course – Door supervisors and security guards must complete the ACT course and bring certificates to training sessions.
Current SIA License – You must hold a valid SIA license in the relevant category.
Get your prerequisites sorted first. Missing requirements delay your progress and license renewal.
Role-Specific Training Requirements
Door Supervisors (2-Day Course)
- Terror threat awareness
- Comprehensive physical intervention (knowledge and practical)
- Advanced searching techniques
- Vulnerability training including spiking prevention
- Conflict management and de-escalation
- Updated emergency first aid
Security Guards (1-Day Course)
- Terror threat awareness
- Searching procedures
- Vulnerability training
- Basic conflict resolution
- Emergency response protocols
Close Protection Operatives
- Terror threat awareness equivalent to door supervisor standards
- Advanced physical intervention skills
- Specialized searching techniques
- Comprehensive vulnerability training
- Multi-role qualification maintenance
Close protection professionals using licenses for door supervisor or security guard work maintain qualifications across all functions with one refresher course.
Training Providers and Booking
Choose accredited training providers. Zems Academy offers comprehensive SIA refresher training courses designed to meet all current requirements.
Quality training providers offer:
- Same-day results where possible
- Step-by-step qualification support
- Reasonable adjustment policies
- Comprehensive course materials
- Expert instructor guidance
Book early to secure preferred dates. Popular training slots fill quickly as deadlines approach.
Ongoing Requirements After 2026
Refresher training is not a one-time requirement. You must complete refresher training every time you renew your SIA license.
This ongoing obligation ensures:
- Skills remain sharp and current
- Knowledge stays updated with evolving threats
- Professional standards maintain consistency
- Public safety receives continuous protection
The SIA emphasizes that security skills fade over time. Regular refresher training combats this natural decline and maintains professional competency.
Preparing for Your Training
Before Your Course
- Verify your license renewal date
- Complete required prerequisites
- Gather necessary certificates
- Book training well in advance
- Review current security procedures
During Training
- Engage actively with practical exercises
- Ask questions about unclear procedures
- Practice physical intervention techniques
- Take detailed notes for future reference
- Network with other security professionals
After Completion
- Store certificates securely
- Update your professional records
- Apply new knowledge immediately
- Plan for next renewal cycle
- Stay updated on industry changes
Industry Impact and Professional Standards
The refresher training represents the SIA's commitment to elevating security industry standards. Subject matter experts consulted on curriculum development identified skills most susceptible to degradation over time.
Professional development continues beyond basic licensing. The refresher system acknowledges that security threats evolve constantly, requiring ongoing education and skill updates.
Security professionals who embrace continuous learning position themselves for career advancement and increased earning potential.
Take Action Now
Don't wait for your renewal notice. Proactive professionals complete refresher training early, avoiding last-minute complications and ensuring smooth license renewal.
Check your renewal date today. Mark your calendar with training deadlines and book courses immediately.
Invest in your professional future. Quality refresher training enhances your skills, knowledge, and career prospects in the growing security industry.
The security industry demands excellence. SIA refresher training ensures you meet these elevated standards while protecting public safety and advancing your professional career.
Get started now. Your next license renewal depends on completing this mandatory training. Choose quality training providers, complete prerequisites early, and invest in your continued professional success.
Visit Zems Academy to explore our comprehensive SIA refresher training options and secure your professional future in the security industry.