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

A private investigator listening to a clients issue

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

Company Licenses

Pennsylvania Security Company Licenses

Pennsylvania Private Investigation Agency License

Not required



Private Investigation Agency licensure is not required on the State level in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania does not issue private investigation agency licenses at the state level. Private investigative agencies should apply for a county level license through the clerk of courts.

Individual Licenses

Pennsylvania Individual Security Licenses

Pennsylvania Private Investigator License

Not required



Private Investigator licensure is not required on the State level in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania does not issue private investigator licenses at the state level. Private investigators should apply for a county level license through the clerk of courts.

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.