Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services • Division of Licensure and Regulatory Services • Private Security Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,740 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of 48,740, Private Investigators in Virginia earn 7% below the national median of $52,370. Virginia ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$48,740Hourly estimate
$23.437% below national median
Difference: -$3,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | 77,320 |
| #2 | Maryland | 74,360 |
| #3 | Illinois | 73,070 |
| #4 | Minnesota | 72,070 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 68,290 |
Nearby States Comparison
Private Investigator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $48,740 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $46,830 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $55,190 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services • Division of Licensure and Regulatory Services • Private Security Services
1100 Bank Street, Richmond, VA, 23219-3639
Phone: 8047864700
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,190 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $99,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Virginia?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Private Investigators in Virginia?
Virginia lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Private Investigator licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Virginia is 48,740. Salaries range from $34,690 (10th percentile) to $103,910 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Virginia earn 7% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 48,740.
How many Private Investigators work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 900 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Private Investigators in Virginia?
The licensing agency is Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services / Division of Licensure and Regulatory Services / Private Security Services. Review agency details at https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/.