PSA Enforcement Guard Licence Ireland
— New Licence Explained
A relatively new PSA licence category that covers repossession, parking enforcement, and access control for debt recovery. If you work in enforcement, this is now required by law.
What It CoversWhat Is the PSA Enforcement Guard Licence?
The PSA Enforcement Guard Licence was introduced in March 2023 under the PSA Licensing Requirements — Enforcement Guards (PSA 91:2023). It covers individuals and contractors providing enforcement guard services — a category that was previously unregulated or covered loosely under general security guard licences.
The PSA defines enforcement guard services as activities that involve controlling, supervising, or restricting entry to premises in order to take possession of those premises, or seizing goods in lieu of an outstanding debt. In plain terms: repossession agents, parking enforcement officers, and similar roles.
Transition — Existing Licence Holders
Those who previously worked in enforcement roles under a Security Guard or Door Supervisor licence may continue until their current licence comes up for renewal. At that point they must switch to the Enforcement Guard Licence. New entrants to enforcement work must hold this licence from the outset.
What Does the Enforcement Guard Licence Cover?
The Enforcement Guard Licence applies specifically to security activities connected with enforcement of debt, repossession, and related access control. It does not replace the standard Security Guard or Door Supervisor licences for those roles.
| Activity | Security Guard Licence | Enforcement Guard Licence |
|---|---|---|
| Static guarding (offices, retail) | ✔ Covered | ✘ Not applicable |
| Door supervision (pubs, clubs) | ✘ Requires Door Supervisor licence | ✘ Not applicable |
| Parking enforcement / clamping | ✘ No longer sufficient | ✔ Required |
| Repossession support / asset seizure | ✘ No longer sufficient | ✔ Required |
| Access control for debt enforcement | ✘ No longer sufficient | ✔ Required |
Applying for the Enforcement Guard Licence
The application process follows the standard PSA individual licence route. Because the Enforcement Guard is a newer category, always verify the current training requirements directly with the PSA before beginning.
Check Current Training Requirements with the PSA
Contact the PSA at licensing@psa.gov.ie or visit psa.gov.ie to confirm the current approved training pathway for Enforcement Guard applicants. Requirements may be updated as the licence category matures.
Complete the Required Training
Complete training through a PSA-approved provider. Your employer (if working for a licensed enforcement contractor) may be able to provide or direct you to the required training.
Register and Apply Online at psa.gov.ie
Apply through the PSA's online portal and pay the applicable licence fee. After payment you will receive your application pack by post within 5 days.
Complete Garda Vetting
A National Vetting Bureau background check is mandatory. Respond to the vetting email within 7 days to avoid delays.
Return Your Signed Application and Await Your Licence
Return your signed form, photograph, and training documentation within 21 days. Allow approximately 6 weeks for processing. Your licence card will be issued once approved.
Enforcement Guard Licence — FAQ
Yes, but not immediately. You can continue on your current licence until it comes up for renewal. At that point you must apply for the Enforcement Guard Licence instead of renewing your Security Guard licence for this work.
Licensing for the enforcement guard sector commenced on 31 March 2023 under PSA 91:2023. Both individual employees and contractors providing enforcement services have been required to hold the appropriate licence since that date.
No. It is specific to enforcement guard activities. If you also want to work in static guarding or door supervision you would need the appropriate additional licence for those categories.
The PSA is responsible for licensing and regulating enforcement guard contractors and their employees. PSA inspectors audit contractors against the PSA 91:2023 requirements document. Operating without a licence is an offence under the Private Security Services Acts.