Kentucky Private Security and Private Investigation Licensing Guide

Kentucky licenses private investigators and private investigation agencies through the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Private Investigators under KRS Chapter 329A, and issues a Kentucky Concealed Deadly Weapon License (CCDW) through the Kentucky State Police under KRS 237.110.

Last reviewed: February 2026

How Licensing Works in Kentucky

Kentucky regulates private investigation through a statewide licensing program administered by the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Private Investigators under KRS Chapter 329A. The statute provides for licensure of individual private investigators and private investigation companies.

Kentucky issues a Kentucky Concealed Deadly Weapon License (CCDW) through the Kentucky State Police under KRS 237.110. This is a firearms credential issued under a separate statutory scheme and is not itself a private investigation license.

Kentucky does not maintain a statewide security guard licensing board under KRS Chapter 329A. Local ordinances may impose additional requirements for certain security services in specific jurisdictions.

Regulation of private investigation is centralized at the state level.

Licenses Issued by the State

Security Services

  • Kentucky Concealed Deadly Weapon License (CCDW)

Private Investigation Services

  • Kentucky Private Investigator License
  • Kentucky Private Investigation Agency License

Operational Notes for Multi-State Firms

Kentucky uses a statewide licensing framework for private investigation under KRS Chapter 329A, administered by the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Private Investigators.

Kentucky issues a CCDW license under KRS 237.110 through the Kentucky State Police under a separate statutory framework.

Local ordinances may impose additional requirements for certain security services.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Licensing requirements, regulators, and statutes may change without notice. Always confirm licensing requirements through official state channels.