About the role
Mobile patrol officers drive between sites to check buildings, respond to alarms, lock and unlock premises and hold keys. You need an SIA security guard licence (key holding is covered by guarding and door supervisor licences), plus a full driving licence.
The minimum you can be paid
Your average hourly pay in each pay period must be at least the legal minimum for your age:
- Aged 21 and over (National Living Wage): £12.71 an hour
- Aged 18 to 20: £10.85 an hour
- Aged 16 to 17: £8.00 an hour
- Apprentices (under 19, or in the first year of an apprenticeship): £8.00 an hour
These are the legal minimum rates from April 2026. Some employers and contracts are accredited by the Living Wage Foundation and pay the voluntary Real Living Wage instead: £13.45 an hour across the UK and £14.80 in London (2025/26 rates — new rates are announced each autumn).
Things that affect mobile patrol officers' pay
- Time driving between sites during your shift is working time and must be paid at least the minimum wage.
- Night patrols and alarm response are common, so rest between shifts matters.
- If you use your own vehicle, check what mileage you're paid and keep a record.
Check every shift
Work out what a shift should pay with the shift pay calculator, and check your breaks and rest with the break and rest calculator. Shiftaan keeps every shift, rate and payment in one place, so you can check each payslip in seconds. Try it free.
Common questions
What is the minimum wage for mobile patrol officers?
£12.71 an hour if you're 21 or over, from April 2026. Living Wage accredited employers pay at least £13.45 (£14.80 in London).
Do I get paid for my breaks?
Only if your contract says so. You have a legal right to a 20-minute break on shifts over 6 hours, but not to be paid for it.