WV Private Investigator Bond Overview
- Purpose: To hold private investigators liable for following licensing laws
- Who Needs It: All private detectives and investigators in West Virginia
- Regulating Body: The WV Secretary of State
- Bond Amount: $5,000
- Premium Price: $100 for a one-year term
What Is a West Virginia Private Detective or Investigator Bond?
A West Virginia private detective or investigator bond holds private detectives liable for following licensing laws and operating honestly. The state requires the following professions to have either a $10,000 surety bond or liability insurance:
- Private Detective
- Private Investigator
- Watch, Guard, or Patrol Agency
This security protects the state and other individuals from financial loss if the investigator breaks laws or causes damages.
How Much Do Private Detective or Investigator Bonds Cost?
The $10,000 Virginia 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 the Surety Bond Work?
A private investigative surety bond creates a legal contract between three parties.
- Principal: The private detective or investigator filing the bond
- Obligee: The West Virginia Secretary of State – Licensing Division
- Surety: The issuing surety provider
As the principal, you promise to operate according to Chapter 30, Article 18 of the Code of West Virginia. If you don’t and cause harm, the surety holds you financially responsible for damages.
How Do I Get a PI Bond in West Virginia?
You can get your West Virginia private investigator bond online in minutes. Enter your information and checkout on this page.
The Licensing Division requires the original bond form with wet signatures. We offer three-day, two-day or overnight shipping options.
How Do I File My Bond?
You’ll submit your surety bond form along with your license application or renewal packet. Find the address in the licensing section at the end of this page.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, there is no minimum personal credit score required to qualify for this bond. All applicants pay the same flat rate with no credit check.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
These bonds expire every one to three years, depending on the term you choose. You must file a new bond form after the first term expires.
For current clients, we’ll send you reminders to purchase the new bond before yours expires.
How to Become a Private Investigator in West Virginia
To get an individual private investigator, PI agency, or security guard license in West Virginia, start by registering your business entity with the state. Then, you’ll need the following materials for your application packet:
- Application form
- Proof of surety bond or liability insurance
- 5 character references
- Passport-style photo
- Documentation of one year of qualifying training or experience
- Payment for licensing fee ($100–$450)
Mail everything to this address:
West Virginia Secretary of State
Licensing Division
1900 Kanawha Blvd. East, Building 1, Suite 157-K
Charleston, WV 25305
After your application is received, you’ll get instructions on how to submit fingerprints for a background check.
