You can apply quickly and easily for a NSW security Master or Operative licence online via Service NSW.

The simple steps below detail the online application process for Master and Operative licences.

Operative Licences
  1. Apply online via Service NSW and attach all necessary documentation when requested.
  2. SLED will process your payment.
  3. SLED will contact you within two to three weeks with instructions to visit a police station to have your finger/palmprints taken or requesting further information if required.
  4. SLED conducts probity checks, to determine if you have a NSW or national criminal history. This takes four to six weeks to complete.
  5. If your licence is granted you will receive a Photograph Advice letter.
  6. You have 60 days to take the Photograph Advice letter to a Service NSW centre to have your photograph taken.
  7. Your licence card will be sent to your postal address within 10 working days.
  8. If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reason/s and the appeals process. For more information, see the Refusal, Revocation and Right of Review page.

Master Licences
  1. Apply online via Service NSW and attach all necessary documentation when requested.
  2. SLED processes your payment.
  3. SLED will contact you within two to three weeks with instructions to visit a police station to have your finger/palmprints taken or requesting further information if required.
  4. SLED conducts probity checks, investigating the nominated person’s NSW and national criminal history and that of their close associates. This takes four to six weeks to complete.
  5. If the licence is granted the nominated person will receive the Master licence certificate in the post.
  6. If the application is refused, the nominated person will receive a letter explaining the reason/s and the appeals process. For more information, see the Refusal, Revocation and Right of Review page.

SLED uses SMS and emails to communicate with applicants throughout the application process. We recommend you regularly check your spam folder and add SLED (sled@police.nsw.gov.au) to your contacts to ensure you don’t miss out on important information.

If you are not able to apply online, you can download and send in a paper-based application form.

Click here for the full list of SLED’s application forms.