Checking if you can get an SIA licence with a criminal record is a question that is asked frequently. It is not as simple as yes or no whether having a criminal record will stop you from getting an SIA licence.
Will a criminal record affect my application?
Each SIA Licence application is judged on a case-by-case basis with all information forming part of the decision. Getting an SIA Licence with a criminal record will depend on a few different factors.
- Whether your offence is relevant to your application.
- The sentence given to you.
- Was the offence recent?
Is the Criminal Record relevant?
What does the relevance of a criminal record mean when it comes to getting an SIA Licence with a criminal record? Well, this means whether your criminal record shows that you may not have the temperament to work in the security industry.
So, this means that if your criminal record is for something relatively minor it may not be a deciding factor in your licensing decision. However, if your criminal record has a violent offence this may become a factor that means you will be less likely to get a licence.
The criminal sentence
But the decision alone may not be based on the offence in isolation. There may well be mitigating factors involved in the sentencing process and these will be taken into account in your SIA Licence application.
Check if you can get an SIA Licence with a Criminal Record
Another factor is when the offence took place. We are all capable of mistakes and bad choices. An offence that happened long ago and a clean record following this may well mean that the offence affects your licence application less.
If you are still wondering where you stand, the SIA have a Criminal Record Indicator tool that will help you check if you are likely to be accepted for a licence.
So, a criminal record doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be accepted for your SIA Licence. There are ways to check if acceptance is likely and will help you know where you stand.
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If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain an SIA Licence.
To obtain an SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.
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