Private Investigator Licensing in West Virginia
Private investigation licenses are typically issued for individuals and organizations conducting investigative services. This guide contains information about private investigator licensing in West Virginia. For assistance with licensing, please contact us to learn about our software and managed license services.
Company Licenses
West Virginia Security Company Licenses
West Virginia Private Investigation Agency License
| Agency: | West Virginia Secretary of State - Business and Licensing Division |
| Bond Requirements: | $2,500 |
Initial Registration
| Form: | |
| Agency Fee: | $200 for in-state or $500 for out-of-state private investigator firms. $400 for in-state or $1,000 for out-of-state combined private investigator and security firms. |
Registration Renewal
| Form: | |
| Agency Fee: | $200 for in-state or $500 for out-of-state private investigator firms. $400 for in-state or $1,000 for out-of-state combined private investigator and security firms. |
| Due: | Annually by the date issued. |
Individual Licenses
West Virginia Individual Security Licenses
West Virginia Private Investigator License
| Agency: | West Virginia Secretary of State - Business and Licensing Division |
| Bond Requirements: | $2,500 |
Initial Registration
| Form: | |
| Agency Fee: | $100 for West Virginia residents, $500 for out-of-state applicants. |
Registration Renewal
| Form: | |
| Agency Fee: | $100 for West Virginia residents, $500 for out-of-state applicants. |
| Due: | Annually by the date issued. |
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.
