Close Protection Officer

Provide personal security for high-profile or at-risk clients - on the move and at residences.

This UK close protection officer career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.

Quick facts

Starting salary
£35,000 - £55,000
Mid-career salary
£60,000 - £100,000
Senior salary
£120,000 - £250,000+
Work environment
With client - UK and overseas
Time to entry
1 - 3 years (SIA CP licence + experience)
Degree required
Not required
Category
Self-Employed and Business Owner

What a Close Protection Officer does

Provide personal security for high-profile or at-risk clients - on the move and at residences.

How to become a Close Protection Officer

  1. Look up Close Protection Officer roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
  2. Talk to someone already working as a Close Protection Officer - even a 15-minute call helps
  3. Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
  4. Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
  5. Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month

Key skills

  • SIA CP licence
  • Threat assessment
  • Driving
  • First aid
  • Discretion