Private Investigator Licensing in Virginia
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 |
| Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | Not Set |
| Bond Requirements: | $100,000 |
| Exam Required? | Not Set |
| Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | Not Set |
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 |
| Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | Not Set |
| Exam Required? | Not Set |
| Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | Not Set |
Initial Registration
| Form: | |
| Agency Fee: | $39 application fee + $50 fingerprint fee. |
Registration Renewal
| Form: | |
| 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.
