Private investigator agency
Requirements
All agency owners, partners, or qualifying agents must be:
- At least 18 years old, if applying unarmed.
- At least 21 years old, if applying armed.
- A United States citizen or resident alien.
You must have:
How to apply
You must submit:
- A completed
Private Investigator Agency/Principal License Business License Application Supplement.
- The non-refundable application fee (check or money order payable to "Department of Revenue").
- 1 completed fingerprint card.
- Proof of 3 years’ investigative experience performed before applying for the license. If no experience is provided, the Department of Licensing will schedule an examination within 3 weeks after receiving the paid application.
- A certificate of liability insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage or a $10,000 Private Investigative Agency Surety Bond.
- If a corporation, a copy of articles of incorporation and a list of officers and departments and their addresses.
Post your license
A license must be posted at each location where the licensee operates. You may not begin this business activity until you receive a Business License listing the required license.
Fees
| Application fees |
Fee |
| Private Investigator Agency with unarmed principal |
$600 |
| Private Investigator Agency with armed principal |
$700 |
| Unarmed Private Investigator |
$200 |
| Armed Private Investigator (in addition to Unarmed Private Investigator fee) |
$100 |
| Transfer |
$25 |
| Certified Trainer Examination |
$25 |
| Renewal fees |
Fee |
| Private Investigator Agency |
$350 |
| Unarmed Private Investigator |
$175 |
| Armed Private Investigator |
$175 |
| Certified Trainer |
$15 |
Contact information
State of Washington
Business Licensing Service
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034
Phone: 1-800-451-7985
Email: BLS@dor.wa.gov
Fax: 360-705-6699
Office hours
Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mailing information
Please remember to enclose all necessary documents and fees with your completed application. Incomplete submissions will result in a delay in your licensure.
It is important that you contact our office, in writing, with any changes in address.
Regulatory questions
Department of Licensing
Private Investigators
Phone: 360-664-6611
Fax: 360-570-7888
