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:

• no criminal convictions that directly relate to your capacity to perform the duties of a private investigator and/or hinders public safety. Read more about criminial conviction information.
• a physical location of the business within Washington.
• a valid business license with the Department of Licensing.

How to apply

You must submit:

• a completed Private Investigator Agency/Principal License Master Business Application Supplement.
• the non-refundable application fee.
• one completed fingerprint card.
• proof of three years investigative experience performed before applying for the license; an examination will be scheduled within three weeks of receipt of a paid application if no experience is provided.
• 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.