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

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

Company Licenses

Texas Security Company Licenses

Texas Private Investigation Agency License

Agency:Texas Department of Public Safety

Initial Registration

Form:

Company License Application

Agency Fee:

$361 for investigation only license or $556 for investigations and other services.

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$361 for investigation only license or $556 for investigations and other services.

Due:

Annually by the last day of the month of issuance.

Individual Licenses

Texas Individual Security Licenses

Texas Private Investigator License

Agency:Texas Department of Public Safety

Initial Registration

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$57 for owners, officers, or partners of a firm and $37 for other investigators.

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$57 for owners, officers, or partners of a firm and $37 for other investigators.

Due:

Biennially 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.