How to become a bodyguard
You can get into this career by:
- a college course
- applying directly
College
You could do a Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative.
You can search for approved training providers who offer this course through the Security Industry Authority.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Direct Application
You can apply to an organisation directly to work as a bodyguard or go through a recruitment agency specialising in security work. You'll need a Close Protection licence issued by the Security Industry Authority.
To get a licence, you'll usually need to have completed the Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative. If you've previously done older security qualifications, check whether they are still acceptable. If you need additional training you can find an approved training provider.
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Career tips
Many people enter this career after working in the police or the armed forces.
It may be useful if you can speak more than one language for certain jobs, for example diplomatic work.
Further information
You can find more details about training to be a bodyguard through the Security Industry Authority.