50-State Security Licensing Compliance Guide
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Private Investigator Licensing in Washington D.C.

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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 Washington D.C.. For assistance with licensing, please contact us to learn about our software and managed license services.

Company Licenses

Washington D.C. Security Company Licenses

District of Columbia Private Detective Agency License

Agency:District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection - Security Officers Management Branch
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:Not Set
Bond Requirements:

$25,000

Exam Required?Not Set
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?Not Set

Initial Registration

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$99

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$99

Due:

By October 31 of even-numbered years.

Individual Licenses

Washington D.C. Individual Security Licenses

District of Columbia Private Detective License

Agency:District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection - Security Officers Management Branch
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:Not Set
Bond Requirements:

$5,000

Exam Required?Not Set
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?Not Set

Initial Registration

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$99

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$99

Due:

By October 31 of even-numbered years.

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.