50-State Security Licensing Compliance Guide
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Private Investigator Licensing in Virginia

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Private investigation licenses are typically issued for individuals and organizations conducting investigative services. This guide contains information about private investigator licensing in Virginia. For assistance with licensing, please contact us to learn about our software and managed license services.

Company Licenses

Virginia Security Company Licenses

Virginia Private Investigation Agency License

Agency:Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
Bond Requirements:

$100,000

Initial Registration

Form:

Private Security Servives - Initial Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$550 for a one-year license or $800 for a two-year license + $50 fingerprint fee for all principals. Additional license classes can be added for $50 each.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Private Security Services - Renewal Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$500 application fee + $50 fingerprint fee for all new principals.

Due:

Biennially after the initial license expires.

Individual Licenses

Virginia Individual Security Licenses

Virginia Private Investigator License

Agency:Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services

Initial Registration

Form:

Initial Registration Application

Agency Fee:

$39 application fee + $50 fingerprint fee.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Renewal Private Security Registration Application

Agency Fee:

$34

Due:

Biennially

Learn about security licensing in other states:

Firearm Qualification - An additional qualification attached to license applications for armed private investigators.

Private Investigator Apprentice - Apprentices are issued limited licenses and can only operate under the direction of a licensed investigator.

Qualified Representative - A licensed private investigator who is responsible for the operation and management of an investigative agency.

Reciprocity - When a private investigator is allowed to do business in a different state under the license issued by their home state.

National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI)
Industry association that sponsors education and certification efforts for members.

National Council of Investigation and Security Services (NCISS)
Private investigation and security advocacy group.

United States Association of Professional Investigators (USAPI)
Industry association focused on education and certification.

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