Private Investigative & Security Services FAQs
What is the difference between becoming a Licensed Private Investigator/Security Guard and an Employee/Registrant?
Licensed Private Investigators/Security Guards act as the party responsible for an agency and oversee the Employees/Registrants.
Am I required to complete a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification?
All Security Guard Registrants and Licensed Security Guards must complete an approved Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification course within two years prior to the date they apply for licensure and prior to renewal. American Heart Association and American Red Cross are approved course providers. Current certification is required for renewal.
What are the training hour requirements?
Licensed Private Investigators and Security Guards (qualifying agents) must complete a 40-hour approved training program prior to licensure.
Registered Private Investigators and Security Guard (employees) must complete an 8-hour approved training program prior to registration.
Are VCIC background checks run on every applicant?
Yes, upon submission of your application the office will conduct an internal VCIC check. Anyone applying for the armed specialty must have an FBI Background Check.
I want to hold an armed endorsement. What do I need to do?
Once you hold an active license you will need to log in to your online account and click “add specialty.” You will select armed and follow the screen prompts. FBI background checks and a certificate of firearms training though an OPR-approved provider is required to hold this specialty.
I want to change agencies. What is required?
You will need to log in to your online account and upload a Supervisory Authorization form to your license by clicking “Update application/license.” Upon receiving this your license will be updated within 3 to 5 business days to reflect the new office association and you can reprint the license. You may be employed with more than one agency. Please be sure to let us know if you are adding or changing agencies.
What is a sole proprietor agency?
This means the agency has only one Licensed Private Investigator/Security Guard acting as the qualifying agent with no employees.
Can I work for more than one agency at a time?
Yes. A supervisory authorization form is required for each agency you work for.
What are the guidelines for security guard officer uniforms?
Rule 7-4 of the Administrative Rules for Private Investigators and Security Guards provides that “Uniforms, badges, and insignia must not suggest law enforcement authority.”
All security guards or private investigators must be identified as such and must not imitate the uniform, badge, or identification of law enforcement. There must be a clear, immediate distinction, whether you are observed from the front or behind, that you are a security guard or private investigator and not a law enforcement officer. Please refer to OPR's Guidance on Security Guard Uniforms for further information on appropriate attire and suggested uniform options.
For more answers to commonly asked questions, please visit our General FAQ page.
For more information, please contact us.