To become a bodyguard in the UK, you need a close protection licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA): first get a first aid qualification, then pass a Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives through an approved training provider, then apply for the licence, which costs £204 and lasts 3 years as of October 2026. You must be over 18, pass criminal record checks and have the right to work in the UK.
Bodyguard work is called close protection in the UK, and it's one of the licensed security jobs, so you can't legally do it without the right licence. This guide follows the UK route because the rules are set nationally by the SIA. Here's what the SIA's GOV.UK guidance and the National Careers Service said when I read them on 26 October 2026.
What you need at a glance
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age | Over 18 |
| Licence | SIA close protection licence (front line) |
| Qualification | Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives Working in the Private Security Industry |
| First aid | Needed before training, and valid for at least another 12 months |
| Checks | Criminal record checks, plus overseas checks if you've spent 6 continuous months or more outside the UK in the last 10 years |
| Other | Right to work in the UK, good fitness and a full driving licence |
How to become a bodyguard, step by step
- Get your first aid qualification. The SIA says you must have it before you start the licence-linked training, and it must be valid for at least another 12 months.
- Book an approved course. The current Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives is awarded by Highfield Qualifications, NOCN, Pearson, Qualifications Network (QNUK) and SFJ Awards, through approved training providers.
- Pass the qualification. It's the licence-linked qualification the SIA lists for a close protection licence, so check your course leads to it before you pay.
- Gather your documents. You'll need identity documents and your address history for identity and criminal record checks.
- Apply online and pay. Create an SIA online account, submit the form and pay the fee, unless an employer has agreed to pay it for you.
- Find work. The National Careers Service says you can apply directly to organisations or go through a recruitment agency that specialises in close protection.
What the SIA checks
Applying doesn't guarantee a licence. The SIA's guidance says you'll be checked on:
- your identity, using documents that prove who you are
- your address history, used for identity and criminal record checks
- your criminal record, including overseas checks where they apply
- your right to work in the UK, which SIA staff check against Home Office records
- your licence-linked qualification
The SIA says being prepared can save you time and even the fee, because it's not refunded if your application fails. So check you're likely to pass before you apply.
Fees and renewals, as of October 2026
| Item | SIA rule |
|---|---|
| Licence fee | £204 for one licence, not refundable |
| Extra licences in the same application | 50% discount, so £102 each |
| How long it lasts | 3 years |
| Renewing | You need your full qualification plus the Level 2 Award for Close Protection Operatives in the Private Security Industry (Refresher) |
The fee changed to £204 on 1 April 2026, because the SIA stopped the £20 rebate it had used since April 2020. If you've let your licence lapse for more than 3 years, you need a current full qualification again, not just the refresher.
Already trained years ago?
The SIA will accept an older close protection qualification only if it's been less than 3 years since you last held a close protection licence and you also hold the Level 2 refresher award. If your right to work needs checking and the SIA asks for evidence, it'll cancel your application if it doesn't get it within 21 days, so keep your documents ready before you apply. Don't send your share code or residence permit unless the SIA asks for it.
What the job involves
The National Careers Service lists protecting clients from threats such as terrorism, political opponents, stalkers or over-enthusiastic press and fans, and checking and securing premises before clients arrive. Hours run about 37 to 51 a week, often including evenings, weekends, bank holidays and time away from home.
What bodyguards earn
The National Careers Service doesn't give a salary band. It says salaries vary widely, and as a guide, daily rates can range from £150 to over £300, depending on location, level of risk and the extent of the threat. That's as of October 2026.
One sourced detail worth knowing: the National Careers Service notes increasing demand from clients for female bodyguards. And experience in the police, armed forces or prison service could be useful, though it isn't required.
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Skills you'll need
- Knowledge of public safety and security
- Calm under pressure, and the ability to accept criticism
- Concentration and attention to detail for long, quiet hours
- Leadership and clear, logical thinking
- Physical fitness and endurance
If you'd rather start with a shorter security course, my guide on how to become a security guard covers the guarding licence. And for protective work in the US government, see how to become a Secret Service agent.
My verdict
The UK route into close protection is clear: first aid, the Level 3 course, then the SIA licence. The hard part isn't the paperwork, it's getting hired, because clients trust experience. If you've got a police or forces background, use it. If not, pick a well-regarded training provider, keep your fitness and driving record spotless, and be ready to start on lower-risk jobs before the higher day rates come.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a licence to be a bodyguard in the UK?
Yes. You need a Security Industry Authority close protection licence, which requires a licence-linked qualification and criminal record checks.
How much does an SIA close protection licence cost?
As of October 2026, the SIA licence fee is £204 for one licence, it lasts 3 years, and additional licences in the same application are £102 each.
How much do bodyguards get paid in the UK?
The National Careers Service says daily rates can range from £150 to over £300, depending on location and the level of risk.
Do I need first aid to be a bodyguard?
Yes. The SIA says you must have a first aid qualification before the training, valid for at least another 12 months.
