If you run a security company in South Africa, you cannot apply for tenders or operate legally without being registered with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority).
For Black-owned SMEs looking to enter the security sector, PSIRA registration is a must. This guide explains the grades, costs, and timelines involved so you can get compliant and tender-ready.
1. What Is PSIRA and Why Is It Important?
- PSIRA is the regulatory authority for the private security industry in South Africa.
- It ensures security providers meet professional, ethical, and legal standards.
- Both security companies and individual security officers must be registered.
Without PSIRA registration, your business cannot legally provide guarding, armed response, or security services.
2. Who Needs PSIRA Registration?
- Security service providers (companies)
- Security officers (individuals working for providers)
- Anyone offering guarding, armed response, access control, CCTV monitoring, or bodyguard services
3. PSIRA Grades Explained
PSIRA officers are graded from Grade A to Grade E based on training and responsibilities:
- Grade E: Entry-level, basic guarding
- Grade D: Access control, patrolling
- Grade C: Supervisors, control room operators
- Grade B: Site managers, senior supervisors
- Grade A: Highest grade, security managers and consultants
Companies must employ officers with appropriate grades depending on the type of tender/project.
4. Company Registration Requirements
To register a security company with PSIRA, you’ll need:
- Company registration documents (CIPC)
- Certified ID copies of directors/owners
- Tax compliance details (SARS PIN)
- Proof of address and bank confirmation letter
- B-BBEE affidavit or certificate
- At least one director/owner registered as a security officer with PSIRA
5. Costs of PSIRA Registration
- Application fee: ±R6,750 for companies (once-off, non-refundable)
- Annual renewal fee: Based on company turnover (ranges from R500 to R2,000+)
- Officer registration fees: Vary by grade and training costs (separate from company fee)
Training for grades is done at PSIRA-accredited training providers and fees differ by grade.
6. Timelines for Registration
- Company application processing: ±6–12 weeks (if documents are complete)
- Individual officer registration: ±2–4 weeks after training completion
- Renewals: Must be done annually to remain compliant
Delays happen if documents are missing or fees are unpaid—submit everything correctly to fast-track approval.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for tenders without PSIRA registration (instant disqualification)
- Using unregistered security officers on contracts
- Forgetting to renew annually—expired registration = illegal operation
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect company details
8. How etenderportal.co.za Helps
On etenderportal.co.za you can:
- Find tenders that specifically require PSIRA registration
- Access guides like this to ensure your compliance documents are ready
- Save time by focusing only on tenders you qualify for
9. Final Tips
- Start registration early—it takes weeks to process
- Ensure at least one director is a registered security officer
- Budget for training and registration costs
- Renew your PSIRA annually to avoid suspension
Government tenders are one of the most powerful ways to grow your security business — if you’re prepared and compliant. PSIRA registration is your license to compete fairly and legally in South Africa’s security sector.