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

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

Company Licenses

Washington Security Company Licenses

Washington Private Investigation Agency License

Agency:Washington Department of Licensing - Business and Professions Division
Bond Requirements:

$10,000

Initial Registration

Form:

Private Investigative Agency Application

Agency Fee:

$600 for agencies with an unarmed principal or $700 for agencies with an armed principal.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Private Investigator Renewal Application

Agency Fee:

$350

Due:

Annually

Washington Private Security Guard Company License

Agency:Washington Department of Licensing - Business and Professions Division
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:Yes
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Registration Renewal

Form:

Private Security Guard Company License Renewal Application

Filing Method:

Mail or online.

Agency Fee:

$300

Due:

Annually

Individual Licenses

Washington Individual Security Licenses

Washington Private Investigator License

Agency:Washington Department of Licensing - Business and Professions Division

Initial Registration

Form:

Private Investigator License Application

Agency Fee:

$200 for unarmed private investigators, $300 for armed private investigators.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Private Investigator License Renewal

Agency Fee:

$175

Due:

Annually

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.