Private Investigator Licensing in New York
Private investigation licenses are typically issued for individuals and organizations conducting investigative services. This guide contains information about private investigator licensing in New York. For assistance with licensing, please contact us to learn about our software and managed license services.
Company Licenses
New York Security Company Licenses
New York Private Investigation Agency License
| Agency: | New York Department of State - Division of Licensing Services |
| Bond Requirements: | $10,000 |
Initial Registration
| Form: | |
| Agency Fee: | $500 license fee + $500 for each branch office |
Registration Renewal
| Agency Fee: | $500 |
| Due: | Biennially |
| Notes: | Renewal forms are provided by the division. |
New York Security or Fire Alarm Installer
| Agency: | New York Department of State - Division of Licensing Services |
| Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
| Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
| Form: | |
| Filing Method: | |
| Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on selections made during the initial application process. The minimum fee is $50 and the maximum fee is $200. |
| Background Check Requirements: | ACCESS PREMIUM DATA |
Registration Renewal
| Form: | Security or Fire Alarm System Installer Course Approval Renewal Application |
| Filing Method: | |
| Agency Fee: | $100 |
| Due: | Biennially by date of issuance |
Individual Licenses
New York Individual Security Licenses
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.
