Your SIA Licence Has an Expiry Date Now : Here’s What Happens If You Skip the Refresher
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has changed the rules.
From April 2026, you cannot renew your SIA licence without completing mandatory refresher training.
This is not a suggestion. It is a legal requirement for all Door Supervisors, Security Guards, and Close Protection operatives.
If you ignore the deadline, your licence will expire. You will not be able to work.
You need to act now to stay legal.
At Zems Academy, we provide the security refresher courses you need to stay in the job.
The April 2026 Deadline: What You Need to Know
The SIA now requires a security refresher every single time you renew your licence.
This replaces the old one-off top-up system.
If your licence expires after April 2026, you must show proof of new training.
You must also have a valid first aid certificate before you even start the refresher course.
Zems Academy is your local choice for a sia top up course near me in Birmingham.
We ensure you meet every requirement so your renewal is successful.
First Aid is Now Mandatory Step One
You cannot book a course security training refresher without first aid.
The SIA requires all licence holders to be first aid trained.
For Door Supervisors and Security Guards, you need the Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate.
For Close Protection, you need a higher Level 3 First Aid at Work (FAW) or equivalent.
You must hold this certificate before a training provider can register you.
Most providers require your first aid certificate to have at least 12 months of validity remaining.
Zems Academy includes first aid training in our refresher packages to make it easy for you.
Door Supervisor Refresher Training
Are you a Door Supervisor in Birmingham?
You must complete the security refresher for Door Supervisors every three years.
The course typically lasts 2 full days.
It covers safety-critical skills that the SIA demands.
You will refresh your knowledge on:
- Physical intervention and escorting techniques.
- Searching procedures.
- Emergency procedures and equipment.
- Protecting vulnerable people.
- Counter-terrorism awareness.
Search for a sia training course birmingham and choose Zems Academy for expert instruction.
We provide the hands-on physical intervention training required by the SIA.
Explore our compliance training options here.
Security Guard Refresher Training
Security Guards also face mandatory training changes.
The security refresher for Security Officers is usually a 1-day course.
It focuses on updated risks and legal responsibilities.
You will learn about:
- Updated risk assessment methods.
- Emergency response protocols.
- Terrorism awareness (including the latest ACT modules).
- Changes in private security legislation.
Do not wait until your licence is about to expire.
Book your sia training course birmingham at Zems Academy today.
Close Protection Training UK: The New 2026 Standard
The rules for Close Protection (CP) operatives are even stricter.
From 1 April 2026, all CP renewals require the new close protection training uk refresher.
This course is longer and more intensive than the standard security refresher.
Expect to spend 3 to 5 days in training.
You must also have a Level 3 First Aid qualification before you start.
The CP refresher covers:
- Advanced physical intervention for CP.
- Updated search techniques for individuals and vehicles.
- Threat awareness and drone detection.
- Protection of vulnerable persons in a CP context.
If you are looking for a close protection course birmingham, Zems Academy provides high-level training at our Birmingham site.
Check our Close Protection course availability.
What Happens if You Skip the Refresher?
The consequences of skipping your security refresher are clear.
- Rejected Renewal: The SIA will not process your renewal application.
- Expired Licence: Your current licence will run out.
- Loss of Income: You cannot legally work in security with an expired licence.
- Fines and Prosecution: Working without a valid licence can lead to heavy fines or prison time.
Avoid these risks.
Get your sia top up course near me completed well in advance of your expiry date.
Zems Academy makes the process simple and fast.
Your Renewal Checklist
Follow these steps to ensure you stay licensed:
- Check your expiry date: Look at your SIA card now.
- Verify your First Aid: Ensure you have a valid EFAW or FAW certificate.
- Book your refresher: Choose your course security training at Zems Academy.
- Complete the course: Attend the 1, 2, or 5-day training in Birmingham.
- Submit your renewal: Apply to the SIA as soon as your results are processed.
Why Choose Zems Academy Birmingham?
Zems Academy is a specialist provider of sia training course birmingham.
We are located at Invicta House, Warwick Road, Birmingham.
Our trainers are industry experts with real-world experience.
We offer:
- Nationwide standard training in a local Birmingham setting.
- Accredited qualifications accepted by the SIA.
- Practical, hands-on learning environments.
- Support with your renewal application process.
We focus on your outcomes.
We want you to get your licence and get back to work.
View all our accredited courses here.
Book Your Security Refresher Now
Don't let the April 2026 deadline catch you off guard.
The demand for security refresher courses is increasing.
Secure your spot at Zems Academy today.
Get security trained.
Get your licence renewed.
Stay in work.
Call Zems Academy or visit our website to book.
Browse our safety and compliance courses.
Frequent Updates and Guidance
Zems Academy remains committed to your professional development.
We provide the latest SIA updates as they happen.
Our training facilities in Birmingham are ready to help you meet the new 2026 standards.
Join the hundreds of successful learners who have secured their careers with Zems Academy.
Book Now. Get Trained. Stay Licensed.