Who it is for
Experienced security staff, former police and armed forces personnel, and anyone serious about protecting clients as a close protection operative.
What you will learn
- Threat and risk assessment
- Surveillance awareness and anti surveillance
- Operational planning and route selection
- Venue security and advance work
- Foot drills and escort formations
- Vehicle movements and embus and debus drills
- Search procedures for people, vehicles and venues
- Conflict management for close protection
- The law and professional conduct
How you are assessed
A combination of written exams and practical assessments throughout the course.
After the course
Once Highfield confirms your result you can apply for your SIA Close Protection licence on the SIA website. You will need proof of identity and address, and the SIA carries out a criminal record check. Licences last three years.
Common questions
How long is the close protection course?
The course runs over 18 days. The SIA sets the minimum training time at 194 hours over 18 days, as set by the SIA.
Is the SIA licence fee included?
No. The SIA charges £204 for a three year licence and you pay it directly to the SIA when you apply.
Do I need any experience?
There is no formal experience requirement, but the course is demanding. Most learners come from security, police or military backgrounds.
My close protection licence is expiring. Which course do I need?
To renew you take the shorter refresher course, not the full qualification. The refresher runs over 2.5 to 4.5 days and starts from £449.