Security Training for New Entrants and Career Upskilling
New to security?
This page will help you get answers to frequently asked questions and give guidance on how to get your career started in the Security Industry.
Where do you start to get a job in security?
For most new entrants, We recommend DSP (Door Supervisor) and Static (Security Guarding) because it covers the widest range of entry-level roles: sites, receptions, construction, retail, events, and licensed venues.
Getting trained in these areas keeps your options open and helps you get experience and gives you flexibility.
What training you get (and what you receive after)
With C&T Security Group, you complete the core PSA-aligned training for the licence type you’re going for:
- Static / Security Guarding: you receive the QQI Level 4 Security Guarding Skills (4N20604) award (once issued).
- DSP / Door Supervisor: you receive the QQI Level 4 Door Security Skills (4N20611) award (once issued).
After you pass, you won’t be left waiting. While your official QQI certificate is being processed, you receive a TRF (Training Results Form) from us through the Security Institute of Ireland, which the Private Security Authority checks as part of the licence process. The PSA states a TRF can be accepted for a period after training (up to 6 months).
This means you can move forward with your PSA licence application without delays, and you’ll be ready to apply for roles across the most common security sectors in Ireland.
Register Today
Register today and take the first step into the security industry with C&T Security Group.
Registration
The PSA Licence FAQs:
To work in most security roles in Ireland, you’ll need the right PSA licence for the job you’re doing.
This section answers the most common questions about getting licensed, what training you need, what documents are required (including your TRF while waiting on your QQI certificate), and the steps to apply so you can get working as soon as possible.
Do I need a PSA licence to work in security in Ireland?
Yes. If you’re doing licensable work (like security guarding, door supervision, monitoring, or event security), you must hold the correct licence from the Private Security Authority (PSA)
Which PSA licence should I apply for?
Most new starters go for one of these:
- Security Guard (Guarding): static/site security (premises, access control, patrols).
- Door Supervisor: working at or near a licensed premises.
This will cover you for most roles in the Republic of Ireland
What training do I need for a PSA licence?
You must complete the right approved training and submit valid proof (often a Training Results Form (TRF). If the TRF isn’t valid, your application can be rejected.
We always recommend doing training through ourselves or another Security Institute of Ireland registered trainer
Training Register:
https://www.sii.ie/contact-us/national-register-of-approved-trainers/
How do I apply for my first PSA licence, and how long does it take?
Apply as a first-time employee applicant and follow the steps in the application pack. The PSA advises it can take about 6 weeks to process a new application.
Do I need Garda vetting?
Yes. After your application is processed, you’ll get a vetting invite by email and you must complete it online. Vetting is carried out via An Garda Síochána / the Garda National Vetting Bureau
How much is a PSA licence, and how long does it last?
Common employee licence fees include:
- Security Guard (Guarding): *€90 (3 years)
- Door Supervisor: *€150 (3 years)
- Combined Guarding + Door Supervisor: *€220
*Correct as of January 2026
The Security Training FAQs:
These questions cover what most new entrants want to know before booking a course with C&T Security Group which PSA training we deliver, course length and availability, what you receive after passing , what you’ll learn day-to-day, what you need to start, and the support we offer after training to help you take the next step into the industry.
Which PSA licence does your training cover and what jobs does it lead to?
C&T Security Group provides training for the most common entry routes into the security industry in Ireland:
- Security Guard (Guarding / Static): ideal for site security, static guarding, reception/corporate security, retail security, and mobile patrol support roles.
- Door Supervisor (DSP): suited to licensed venues (pubs/clubs), late-night venues, and event access control roles where door supervision is required.
- Combined (Guarding + Door Supervisor): gives you the widest job options, covering both static security work and door/event roles.
How long is the course and what’s the schedule?
Our PSA-aligned training is delivered in-person and kept practical and easy to follow.
- Security Guard (Guarding / Static): 4 days
- Door Supervisor (DSP): 6 days
- Combined (Guarding + Door Supervisor): 6 days
Course dates:
Register your interest and we’ll contact you when the next course is running.
We aim to run at least 1 course per month, with additional courses depending on demand.
Our training normally runs in Dublin, Laois and Carlow, but with enough demand we can deliver courses nationwide.
What do I leave with at the end?
Once you pass, you also leave with the skills to enter the security workforce including situational awareness, professional communication, conflict management, safe procedures, report writing, and the confidence to handle common incidents properly on shift from day one.
you will also receive your TRF (Training Results Form) upon successful completion and passing of exams, so you can move forward with your PSA licence application while you’re waiting on your QQI certificate to be issued. When QQI releases your results,
you’ll then receive your official
QQI award.
What will I actually learn day-to-day?
Our training is practical and focused on what you’ll use on shift. You’ll cover:
- Situational awareness and spotting risk early
- Professional communication and customer service
- Conflict management and de-escalation
- Incident response and emergency procedures
- Basic legal knowledge for security work
- Searching procedures and access control
- Patrol routines and site duties
- Radio use and clear handovers
- Report writing (clear, simple, professional)
- Physical intervention (DSP only)
What do I need to start?
To enrol, you’ll need:
- Photo ID
- Proof of address
- Good English (spoken and written)
You’ll also need Human Trafficking Awareness training
If you haven’t done it yet, we can assist you during the course.
What support do you give after training?
We want you to succeed. We’ve all been at the start, and we do our best to help students take the next step into the industry.
After your course, C&T Security Group can:
- Guide you through the PSA licence application process
- Assist with job applications and give practical advice
- Make introductions where possible
We can’t guarantee outcomes every time, but we’ll support you as much as we can.
If roles are available, we also
welcome applications to work within our own organisation.
Where is the course held?
Courses are normally delivered in Dublin, Laois and Carlow.
With enough demand, we can also run courses nationwide.
Exact venue details are sent after registration.
How much is each course and do you offer payment plans?
Security Guard (Guarding / Static & Retail): €395
Door Supervisor (DSP): €450
SG & DSP booked together €800
Payment options may be available
Course must be fully paid before Examinations Commence & issuance of Certification
Is there any physical requirement for DSP physical intervention?
DSP training includes physical intervention, so you should be able to take part in basic, controlled practical exercises.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but a reasonable level of mobility and fitness helps.
If you have an injury, medical condition, or any concern about taking part, tell us before the course starts and we’ll advise you on the safest option.
Register Today
Register today and take the first step into the security industry with C&T Security Group.
