If you're wondering how to start a security company in Virginia, there are a few key steps you'll need to follow before taking on your first job. The state requires all private security businesses to be licensed through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), and they’ve got specific rules around training, insurance, and background checks.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What licenses and paperwork you’ll need to legally operate
• How to train, hire, and manage your security team
• Steps to grow and keep your company in good standing

Let’s jump right into the steps.

How to start a security company in Virginia: 8 steps

Starting a private security company in Virginia means working through a clear set of state rules. Once you understand what DCJS requires, the rest becomes a step-by-step process. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Understand Virginia’s private security regulations

Virginia’s Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) handles all licensing and oversight for private security companies. If you’ve been asking yourself, “What licenses do I need to start a security company in Virginia?” — this is the place to start.

DCJS requires licensing for several types of services, including:

• Security officers (armed and unarmed)
  
• Private investigators
  
• Electronic security services (such as alarm response or monitoring)

Each of these has its own rules for training, background checks, and documentation. Knowing which license applies to your business will help you avoid delays when it’s time to apply.

2. Meet licensing requirements

To start a licensed security company in Virginia, you’ll need to meet some basic qualifications set by DCJS. These apply to the business owner and may also apply to key personnel who manage or supervise security staff.

Here’s what’s required:

• Age and legal status: You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
  
  
• Training: Complete the required entry-level training through a DCJS-approved training school. The number of hours depends on whether you’re applying for armed, unarmed, or electronic security roles.
  
  
• Background check: Submit electronic fingerprints and pass a criminal history check through the Virginia State Police and FBI. All applicants must be of good character and reputation, which generally means no serious criminal history and a clean professional record.

3. Prepare and submit your business license application

Once you meet the state’s basic requirements, it’s time to apply for your business license through the Virginia DCJS online portal.

Here’s what to prepare:

• Proof of insurance: General liability insurance is absolutely required. The minimum coverage amount varies based on your services, but most companies carry at least $300,000.
  
  
• Corporate documents: If you’re forming an LLC or corporation, include your Articles of Organization or Incorporation from the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
  
  
• Training and experience: Submit documentation showing you or your qualifying agent completed DCJS training or meet experience requirements.
  
  
• Application and fees: DCJS charges a license application fee and additional service category fees depending on the work you’re offering. Fees start at $550 for one year.

For more information on what you need to prepare, the Virginia DCJS website lists everything you need to know.

4. Register your business and get insured

Before you can legally operate, you’ll need to make your business official with the state and secure the right insurance.

Here’s what to do:

• Register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC): If you're forming an LLC or corporation, file your Articles of Organization or Incorporation through the Virginia SCC.
  
  
• Get an EIN: Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS website. You’ll need this for taxes, banking, and payroll.
  
  
• Carry the right insurance: DCJS requires general liability coverage. Many security companies carry at least $300,000 in coverage, though your needs may vary based on the services you offer. If you're hiring employees, you'll likely need workers' compensation too.

5. Submit your application and pay fees

Once your documents and insurance are ready, it’s time to submit your application through the DCJS online portal.

Here’s what to expect:

• License fees:
  
  • 1-year license: $550
  • 2-year license: $800
  • Each additional service category (like private investigations or electronic security): $50 each
    
    
• Upload supporting documents: Include your business registration, proof of insurance, and training or experience verification.
  
  
• Background check: DCJS will verify your fingerprints and criminal history during their review process.

Once submitted, DCJS will contact you if they need anything else. Most applications are processed within 2 to 4 weeks, but delays can happen if anything is missing or if the background check takes longer than usual.

6. Set up operations and training

Once your license is submitted, it’s time to build out how your company runs day to day and make sure your guards are trained and ready for the job. Here’s what you need to set up:

• Training requirements: All security officers (armed and unarmed) must complete training for security duties through a DCJS-approved school. Unarmed guards need entry-level training, while armed guards need additional firearms training and qualification.
  
  
• Track renewals: Virginia licenses and certifications don’t last forever. Use security guard software like Belfry to track expiration dates so you don’t fall behind.
  
  
• SOPs and handbook: Write up standard operating procedures for things like incident reporting, post duties, and emergency response. Your employee handbook should cover company policies, scheduling, uniforms, and how to report issues. You may want to check out some security guard safety tips to help you establish both.

7. Hire and onboard your team

Now that your company’s structure is in place, it’s time to bring on staff and get them job-ready. Start with a small, reliable team you can trust. That’ll make it easier to build a reputation for solid, dependable work.

Here’s where to focus:

• Background checks: All of your guards must pass a fingerprint-based background check through DCJS before they can work.
  
• Onboarding: Make sure your team knows your policies, expectations, and post orders. Include any company-specific training.
  
• Keep records: You’re required to keep training certificates, license copies, and employment records on file in case DCJS requests them.

Remember that your guards need to be licensed. If you need some help, here’s how to get a security guard license in Virginia

8. Market your company and grow smart

Once you're licensed, staffed, and trained, it's time to get your name out there and start building a client base.

Here are a few ways to get started:

• Build your local presence: Create a simple website (you can pay someone or use a service like Squarespace), print business cards, and set up a Google Business Profile so people in your area can find you.
  
  
• Start networking: Reach out to property managers, event planners, retail stores, and residential communities. Offer to take smaller jobs at first to build trust and get referrals.
  
  
• Stay compliant as you grow: Keep track of training, license renewals, and employee files. If you start to scale, consider adding services like mobile patrols or consulting.

How Belfry can help you streamline operations in Virginia

The security industry is growing fast, and the latest security industry statistics show that demand for private security services continues to rise. Now that you know how to start a security company in Virginia, the next step is managing it efficiently without getting buried in paperwork and scheduling problems. That’s where Belfry can help.

Belfry helps you stay organized by putting everything in one place. Here’s how it helps you stay on top of your security operations: 

• Easy scheduling: Minimize scheduling conflicts and avoid unmanned shifts thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
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• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
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• Digital incident reporting: Goodbye pen and paper — guards can more easily keep you up-to-date by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any evidence if needed.
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• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
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• Custom reporting: Need to create reports? Belfry allows you to design tailored reports, including incident documentation, patrol activities, and compliance status.
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• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

Ready to run your Virginia security company efficiently? Schedule a free Belfry demo today.