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Why the SIA Door Refresher Course Is Now Mandatory
The security industry in the United Kingdom is in continuous and constant change. Hence, new bills are passed regularly, and the recent one is the Martyn’s Law. One of the most important changes is the requirement to complete the SIA Door Supervisor refresher Course before renewing a licence. This blog explains when the course became mandatory, what it covers, why it is important, and what happens if you do not meet the defined criteria.
When did the SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course become mandatory?
The SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course became a legal requirement in different stages, as there has to be a timeline for when any rule is introduced or a transition. It was first introduced in October 2024. However, it only became fully mandatory on 1 April 2025. Consequently, this gave licence holders several months to prepare.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) allowed this transition period to help people plan their training. Door supervisors who renewed their licences before 1 April 2025 could still do so without the new training. However, from April onwards, no one can renew without it. This rule applies across the UK and affects thousands of professionals.
What exactly is the SIA Door Supervisor refresher Course?
The SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course is a refresher programme. It is designed for people who already hold a Door Supervisor licence and want to renew it. The course updates your knowledge and ensures you meet the latest industry standards.
The training usually lasts two days. It also includes some online learning before the classroom sessions. Common pre-course work includes the ACT Awareness and ACT Security e-learning modules.
During the training, you will cover:
- Searching and screening techniques
- Safeguarding vulnerable people, including those at risk of spiking or abuse
- Counter-terrorism awareness
- Updated physical intervention skills
Changes in relevant laws and best practices
By the end of the course, you will be assessed through practical demonstrations and multiple-choice tests. Passing these assessments is essential for your licence renewal.
Why is the SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course mandatory now?
The security industry faces new challenges. Threats to public safety are always changing. This means door supervisors must be ready to handle more than just unruly customers. They may face situations involving drugs, violence, terrorism, and vulnerable individuals.
The SIA introduced the Door Supervisor Refresher Course to make sure all licence holders have the latest skills. Without regular training, some supervisors might rely on outdated methods. That could put both the public and the supervisor at risk.
In simple terms, this training helps keep venues safe, protects the public, and reduces legal risks for employers.
Who must complete the SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course?
If you hold a Door Supervisor licence that expires on or after 1 April 2025, you must complete the course before you can renew. This rule applies even if you have many years of experience.
It also applies if your original qualification was achieved before April 2021. The industry has changed a lot since then, so the training ensures everyone meets the same standard.
Only those who renew before 1 April 2025 can avoid the refresher requirement, and even then, they will need it at the next renewal.
What are the first aid requirements for the SIA Door Supervisor refresher Course?
Before starting the course, you must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate or equivalent. The certificate must be valid for at least 12 more months from the date of your course.
This rule exists because first aid skills are a critical part of modern security work. A door supervisor might need to help someone who is injured, unconscious, or experiencing a medical emergency. The SIA wants to ensure all supervisors can provide basic medical care until professional help arrives.
If you do not have the certificate, you must complete first aid training before your refresher course.
What happens if you do not complete the SIA Door Supervisor refresher Course?
If you fail to complete the course, you cannot renew your licence. Without a valid licence, it is illegal to work as a door supervisor in the UK.
This could mean losing your job or missing out on work opportunities. Employers are required by law to hire only licensed staff. They will not risk fines or legal trouble by employing someone without a current licence.
In short, skipping the course could cost you your livelihood.
How long is the SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course, and what is included?
The training typically lasts two days in person. There may also be extra online learning that you must complete before attending.
The in-person training focuses on practical and theoretical skills. You will practise safe and legal physical intervention techniques. You will also learn how to identify and assist vulnerable people, such as those who are intoxicated, spiked, or otherwise at risk.
Another key part of the course is counter-terrorism awareness. This includes spotting suspicious behaviour and knowing how to respond to threats.
Finally, you will review and update your understanding of relevant laws, such as those covering searching and the use of reasonable force.
Can you avoid the SIA Door Supervisor refresher Course by renewing early?
You can avoid it only once. If your licence expires after 1 April 2025, you must complete the course before renewing.
If your licence is due for renewal before that date, you can renew early and skip the training for this cycle. However, when your licence expires again three years later, the refresher will be required.
This means that delaying the training only postpones the inevitable. Many supervisors choose to complete it early so they are fully up to date.
How often do you need to take the SIA Door Supervisor Refresher Course?
You need to complete the course every time you renew your Door Supervisor licence. Licences last for three years. That means you will take the refresher training once every three years for as long as you work in the role.
This cycle ensures your skills are always current. It also means you regularly practise essential safety and legal procedures.
Conclusion
The SIA Door Supervisor refresher Course is now a vital part of the security profession. It became mandatory on 1 April 2025 to make sure all door supervisors have the skills and knowledge to deal with modern security challenges.
Completing the course is not just a legal requirement. It is also a way to protect the public, improve workplace safety, and strengthen your career. Without it, you cannot renew your licence or continue working legally.
If you are due to renew your licence soon, start planning your training now. Make sure you have your first aid certificate in place and book a course with an approved provider. This will keep you compliant, confident, and ready for the challenges of today’s security industry.
