South Carolina Private Detective Bond Overview
- Purpose: To hold private detectives liable for following licensing laws
- Who Needs It: All private detectives working in South Carolina
- Regulating Body: The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
- Bond Amount: $10,000
- Premium Price: $100 for a one-year term
What Is a South Carolina Private Detective Bond?
A South Carolina private detective bond holds private detectives liable for following licensing laws and operating honestly. This bond protects the state and other individuals from financial loss if the investigator breaks laws or causes damages.
Who Needs the Bond?
South Carolina requires all licensed private detectives and investigators to be licensed and file a $10,000 surety bond. Contract security agencies have a separate bond requirement. Visit our contract security surety bond page for more information.
How Much Do Private Detective Bonds Cost in South Carolina?
The state-required $10,000 private detective bond costs a flat rate of $100. Or, you can select a three-year term for $250 and save 25%. Buy your bond online in minutes.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a Private Detective Bond Work?
This type of licensing surety bond creates a legal contract between three parties.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| 1) Principal | The bonded private detective |
| 2) Obligee | The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division |
| 3) Surety | The issuing surety provider |
As the principal, you promise to operate according to South Carolina Code of Laws Title 40, Chapter 18. If you don’t and cause harm, the surety holds you financially responsible for damages.
How Do I Get My Bond?
You can get your South Carolina private detective bond online in minutes. Enter your information and checkout on this page. You’ll receive the official bond form via email in minutes.
How Do I Renew the Bond?
This bond will expire after one year. Before that date, we’ll send you reminders. Follow the instructions to pay your renewal invoice. Then file the continuation certificate with the Law Enforcement Division.
How to Become a Licensed Private Detective in South Carolina
To become a licensed private detective in South Carolina, first make sure you meet the eligibility qualifications including three years of relevant experience.
Then, complete the private detective license application.
- Submit a notarized private investigator license application form
- Pay the $350 license fee made out to the Law Enforcement Division
- Submit two complete sets of fingerprint cards
- Attach a recent color photograph
- File a $10,000 private investigator surety bond
- Include a statement from your county’s Clerk of Court’s office to indicate you have no outstanding civil judgments
- Attach all additional forms found on the SC Private Investigative Forms Page
Your license will remain active for one year. Complete 12 hours of continuing education per year to renew your license.
More Resources
- Security Agency Bond Guide
- Private Investigator Bond Guide
- SC LED: Security Companies
- South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
- Private Investigation Statutory Bond Form
- Private Investigation Business License / Employee Registrations
- Frequently Asked Questions - Private Investigations
- South Carolina Code of Laws Title 40, Chapter 18: Private Security and Investigation Agencies
