How to become a private investigator in West Virginia
West Virginia private investigators are licensed by the West Virginia Secretary of State, Licensing Division. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in West Virginia, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in West Virginia?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Good moral character
- No felony conviction
- No convictions for listed offenses such as illegal weapon carrying, receiving stolen property or drug offenses
- No prior PI or security guard license revoked or application denied in any state
- Five character references who have known you five years
West Virginia private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Licensed statewide by the Secretary of State. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | West Virginia Secretary of State, Licensing Division |
| License name | Individual Private Investigator License |
| Education or training | At least one year of experience, education or training, such as relevant college coursework (W. Va. Code 30-18-2). The Secretary of State accepts a related college diploma or a transcript with at least 60 credit hours in investigative studies. |
| Experience | At least one year of experience, education or training: work for a licensed PI agency, law enforcement or government investigative service, military service, or college coursework. Experience alone must be at least 32 hours per week for 100 weeks. |
| License term | 2 years |
How much does it cost?
| Individual license, West Virginia resident (includes $50 non-refundable processing fee) | $150 |
|---|---|
| Individual license, non-resident (includes $50 non-refundable processing fee) | $550 |
| Surety bond (or proof of liability insurance instead) | $5,000 bond |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a private investigator in West Virginia
- Check the basic eligibility requirements and exemptions
- Get the application packet and fingerprint instructions from the Secretary of State
- Get one passport-size color photo taken within the last year
- Get a $5,000 surety bond or proof of liability insurance
- Collect five completed character references
- Gather proof of education or experience
- Mail the application, documents and fee to the Licensing Division in Charleston
- After approval, register your business with the State Tax Department
Apply on the official West Virginia site
How do you check a private investigator's license in West Virginia?
- Search the name or license number on the official West Virginia private investigator license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.