Become a security guard
in South Africa.

Your route into security

How to become a security officer in South Africa

Check your eligibility

• Be at least 18 and meet the citizenship or permanent-residence requirement.
• Meet PSiRA's suitability and criminal-history requirements.
• Complete training through an accredited training centre.
• Declare any military, police, security or intelligence service. Former members need the required clearance; current service can affect eligibility.

1. Check eligibility and pre-register

   Create your ePSiRA profile and complete pre-registration before training. This sequence applies to new entrants from 5 January 2026.

2. Choose an accredited centre

   Check the centre and its training accreditation with PSiRA. Confirm the grades, attendance requirements and all fees before enrolling.

3. Complete training and course reporting

   Pass the required assessments and ask the provider to submit your course report through ePSiRA.

4. Finalise individual registration

   After course-report approval, follow ePSiRA's full registration steps, pay the applicable fee and submit fingerprints and certified identity documents as instructed.

5. Verify registration before deployment

   Check your recorded grade and registration status, obtain the required ID card and keep up with renewal and fee requirements.

Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA)

Training in South Africa

What training do you need?

Choose accredited training for the security grade and duties required by the employer. Providers commonly offer combined Grade E, D and C courses. Complete ePSiRA pre-registration before training, then ensure the provider submits your course report for approval.

How long is the training?

Course length depends on the grade and provider. The verified Midlands Training Centre example advertises three weeks for Grades E, D and C. PSiRA registration and verification take additional time.

How much does it cost?

Training providers in South Africa

Prices and availability are checked on the dates cited. Directory inclusion identifies a source to investigate; confirmed partnerships are agreed separately.

Security guard & officer pay

How much do security guards earn in South Africa?

Compare hours, gross or net pay, overtime and benefits. Wage floors and occupational medians describe different measures.

Before you take your next step

• Pre-registration before training is a 2026 requirement. Check that a provider follows the current ePSiRA sequence.
• Grade E/D/C course packages are provider examples. Match the grade to the intended duties and employer requirements.
• PSiRA regulates nationally; the wage agreement uses geographical Areas 1, 2 and 3 with different rates.
• The NBCPSS hourly equivalent should be used only for its stated purpose. The circular expressly excludes using it to calculate ordinary basic salary.
• Firearm duties require separate competencies and legal permissions.
• Provider accreditation claims should be checked in PSiRA's live verification service before enrolment.

Official sources and course information

• PSiRA: individual registration requirements
• Civilian Secretariat for Police Service: Act, section 23
• PSiRA: mandatory pre-registration circular
• PSiRA: 2026/27 administration fees
• PSiRA: registration, verification and ID card FAQs
• NBCPSS: 2026/27 wage and allowance circular
• Midlands Training Centre: course and fee

Reviewed 2026-09-16. Follow the current instructions for your precise role and work location.