Private Investigator License Requirements in Virginia

Yes — to operate a private investigator business in Virginia, you need a Virginia Private Investigator Registration (DCJS 04) from Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). The license costs approximately $25 application + fingerprinting; business license $800+ and renews every 2 years. Key requirements include: Be at least 18 years old and Complete the 60-hour DCJS-approved entry-level private investigator training (01E).

Virginia Private Investigator License at a Glance

• License: Virginia Private Investigator Registration (DCJS 04)
• Regulator: Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)
• Estimated fee: $25 application + fingerprinting; business license $800+
• Renewal period: 2 years
• Processing time: 2-6 weeks after training
• Last verified: 2026-07-17

Key Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• Complete the 60-hour DCJS-approved entry-level private investigator training (01E)
• Pass fingerprint-based background check
• Register with DCJS as a private investigator
• Work under a DCJS-licensed private security services business (or license your own)
• Complete 8 hours of in-service training for each renewal

How to Apply for a Private Investigator License in Virginia

1. Complete the 60-hour DCJS entry-level PI training course (01E)
2. Submit fingerprints for the criminal history check
3. Apply for DCJS private investigator registration
4. Join a DCJS-licensed private security services business or obtain your own business license
5. Complete 8 hours of in-service training every 2 years to renew

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to run a private investigator business in Virginia?

Yes. Private Investigator businesses in Virginia need a Virginia Private Investigator Registration (DCJS 04) issued by Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) before operating. Operating without it can result in fines, business closure, and legal liability.

How do I get a private investigator license in Virginia?

To obtain a private investigator license in Virginia, you must: Be at least 18 years old, Complete the 60-hour DCJS-approved entry-level private investigator training (01E), Pass fingerprint-based background check. The license is issued by Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) and typically costs $25 application + fingerprinting; business license $800+.

How much does a private investigator license cost in Virginia?

A private investigator license in Virginia costs approximately $25 application + fingerprinting; business license $800+. This fee covers the initial application. Renewal occurs every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a private investigator license in Virginia?

Processing time for a Virginia private investigator license is typically 2-6 weeks after training. Processing times may vary based on application completeness and background check requirements.

Who regulates private investigator businesses in Virginia?

Private Investigator businesses in Virginia are regulated by Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). They oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement for this industry.