Quick answer: Any business that provides security services in South Africa must be registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA). Before the business can apply, it must be registered with CIPC, and every director, member, partner, trustee and manager must already be registered with PSIRA as a security service provider at the level PSIRA requires for their role. The business also needs its SARS registrations (tax compliance, VAT and PAYE numbers) and UIF and COID where applicable. You then apply and upload your documents on PSIRA's online portal.

Step 1: Set up the business

  • Register a company with CIPC. Security businesses are typically registered as a (Pty) Ltd. See how to register a company.

  • Register with SARS for income tax, VAT and PAYE, and get your tax compliance status in order.

  • Register for UIF and with the Compensation Fund (COID) once you employ people. See our COID registration service.

Step 2: Make sure every director is PSIRA registered

This is the requirement that trips up most new security businesses. PSIRA requires the business's directors, members, partners, trustees and managers to be registered as security service providers with the individual registration and training PSIRA requires for their role. Individual registration involves:

  • training at an accredited training provider;

  • background checks and fingerprints;

  • meeting PSIRA's criteria, for example not having committed certain criminal offences.

If any director isn't registered yet, complete their individual registration before the business applies.

Step 3: Prepare the business documents

Typically you'll need, among others:

  • CIPC registration documents and a list of directors;

  • directors' PSIRA registration details;

  • SARS tax compliance, VAT and PAYE registration details;

  • UIF and COID registration, if applicable;

  • proof of business premises and contact details;

  • other documents PSIRA requests, such as a business plan, suretyship forms and company letterhead.

Incomplete or unsigned documents are the most common cause of delays.

Step 4: Apply online

  1. Create a profile on PSIRA's online portal.

  2. Complete the business application. All directors and members must be listed and linked.

  3. Upload the supporting documents.

  4. Pay the non-refundable registration fee. Check PSIRA's current administration fee schedule, and pay only through PSIRA's official channels.

  5. Track your application with the reference number. PSIRA assesses the application in stages before approving it.

After registration: staying compliant

A PSIRA registration has to be maintained:

  • pay your annual PSIRA fees on time;

  • keep your tax compliance status valid;

  • keep COID and UIF up to date, and your COIDA letter of good standing current. See our letter of good standing guide;

  • make sure all your security officers are registered at the right grade for their work;

  • comply with the sectoral wage rules for the private security industry. See our private security payroll guide and why PSIRA renewals fail.

Frequently asked questions

Can a sole proprietor register a security business with PSIRA?

Security businesses are generally registered as companies or close corporations. Check PSIRA's current requirements for your structure.

Do all directors need to be PSIRA registered?

Yes. Directors, members, partners, trustees and managers must be registered at the level PSIRA requires for their role.

Do I need to be VAT registered?

PSIRA lists a VAT registration number among its business requirements. Confirm the current requirement with PSIRA before you apply.

How do I verify that a security company is registered?

Use PSIRA's online verification to check a business or security officer.

Starting a security company?

Smartbook sets up security businesses properly: CIPC registration, SARS tax, VAT and PAYE, COID and UIF. Then we run your payroll under the sector rules and keep your books ready for PSIRA and tenders. Read our security company compliance calendar or email hello@smartbookie.co.za.

Last reviewed: 2 October 2026. General guidance, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements and fees with PSIRA before applying.