Have you recently earned your Level 2 CCTV Surveillance certification from the Security Industry Authority (SIA)? If so, you’re probably wondering – does this certification expire? How long will it remain valid for?
This is an important question for anyone pursuing a career as a CCTV operator or technician. After all, you’ve put in the time and effort to gain accredited certification to work in the security industry.
In this article, we’ll clear up whether SIA CCTV certifications expire, for how long they are valid, and what you need to do to maintain your certified status. Read on to learn the key facts!
The Initial Certification Period
Firstly, newly issued SIA CCTV surveillance certifications are valid for three years from the date of approval.
For example, if you were granted your Level 2 CCTV certification on 1st January 2022, it would remain fully valid until 31st December 2024.
This means you can work as a licensed CCTV operative for the entire three-year duration without having to renew or extend your certification.
During this initial 3-year period, your SIA CCTV certification officially proves your competence to legally perform your duties. It shows employers that you have the accredited training and qualifications for the role.
Renewing Expired SIA Certifications
Now, while SIA CCTV certifications do not expire during the first 3 years, they do need renewing after this period.
If you wish to continue working legally in CCTV roles beyond the 3-year validity, you will need to renew your certification through the SIA.
To renew an expired SIA CCTV surveillance certification, you must:
- Submit a renewal application to the SIA up to 90 days before the expiry date
- Prove you still meet the fitness requirements (e.g. no criminal convictions)
- Pay the renewal fee
Provided there are no issues, the SIA will then renew your CCTV certification for another 3 years. This allows ongoing validity past the original expiry date.
Maintaining Active Status
To keep your CCTV certification continually active, you need to renew it every 3 years for your entire career. Applications can be submitted 90 days prior to the expiry date.
As long as you meet the renewal criteria each time and pay the fee, you can essentially maintain your CCTV certification for life.
Staying properly certified is crucial for legally working in the security industry on an ongoing basis. An expired certification essentially nullifies your credentials until successfully renewed.
Additional Training Requirements
Beyond just renewing the certification, the SIA also requires ongoing training to maintain your skills and knowledge.
SIA CCTV license holders need to complete 3 hours of certified refresher training within each 3-year certification period.
This important regulation ensures certified CCTV operatives and technicians keep their expertise up to date through regular training.
Be sure to factor these compulsory refresher courses into your schedule and budget to preserve the validity of your certification long-term.
Options for Renewal Training
To complete your 3 hours of refresher training, you have several choices:
- In-person courses – Various colleges and training centers offer 1 or 2-day SIA refresher classes. This traditional classroom-based training allows hands-on practice and evaluation.
- Online training – For added convenience, you can now renew your training online through certified e-learning courses. This remote option allows training on your schedule.
- On-site training – Some employers provide on-site SIA refresher training for staff needing certification renewal. This saves time away and is tailored to your workplace systems.
No matter which option you choose, ensure your refresher training is approved by the SIA to keep your certification compliant.
Tracking Expiry Dates and Deadlines
To avoid accidentally letting your CCTV certification lapse, be sure to track key dates and deadlines. Mark your calendar with:
- Initial certification expiry date – Renewal must be completed before this date
- Refresher course deadline – Complete 3 hours training within 3-year certification cycle
- Renewal submission date – Apply 90 days before expiry date
Setting reminders will help you submit renewal paperwork on schedule and avoid any lapses in certification validity.
Staying on top of expiry dates and planning your refresher training is essential for maintaining your professional SIA certification long-term.
Renewing a Lapsed SIA CCTV Certification
If you do happen to let your SIA CCTV certification expire, you may have to undergo additional steps to renew.
Depending on how long it has been expired, you may need to:
- Retake the entry-level CCTV training courses
- Resubmit your criminal record check and other paperwork
- Provide references from certified professionals
- Pass the CCTV qualification exams again
To avoid these hassles, be vigilant in tracking expiry dates and completing your renewals on time. Letting certification lapse should be avoided whenever possible.
Is Recertification Worthwhile?
For professionals working in CCTV and wider security roles, keeping your SIA certification renewed is absolutely worth the time and costs involved.
Being properly certified authorizes you to continue:
- Working legally in CCTV surveillance roles
- Meeting insurance and regulatory requirements
- Satisfying employer expectations
- Demonstrating your ongoing competence
- Accessing more senior positions
Letting certification lapse can severely limit your career progression and earnings potential. Staying qualified shows your dedication to the profession.
Our Final Word
While SIA CCTV certifications do not expire during the first 3-year period, to maintain validity long-term, renewal is required every 3 years. This involves meeting fitness standards, paying fees, and completing refresher courses.
Tracking expiry dates and planning your renewal in advance is highly recommended to avoid any lapse in certification. Keeping your SIA credentials current will support your career growth and professional standing.
Book your refresher course today to renew your skills and keep compliant. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or concerns. You can contact us by phone at 02089650955 or 02084230169, or email us; Courses@Bssecurity.com.