Washington Private Investigator Laws, Rules & Resources
The following links and resources are provided as helpful references but are not all-inclusive. Laws, regulations, and requirements can change, so always stay current with Washington State laws and regulations applicable to private investigators and investigative work.
Private Investigator Licensing – RCW 18.165: The primary Washington statute governing private investigators, including licensing, training, agency requirements, unprofessional conduct, and enforcement. RCW Chapter 18.165 – Private Investigators
Private Investigative Agencies & Private Investigators – WAC 308-17: Washington Administrative Code provisions governing private investigative agencies and investigators. WAC Chapter 308-17 – Private Investigative Agencies and Private Investigators
Uniform Regulation of Business & Professions Act – RCW 18.235: Contains general provisions relating to professional licensing, discipline, and regulatory enforcement. RCW Chapter 18.235 – Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions Act
Privacy & Recording – RCW 9.73: Important provisions regarding privacy, recording, communications, and surveillance. The DOL specifically identifies RCW 9.73 as part of the law covered in its PI trainer/principal examination materials. RCW Chapter 9.73 – Privacy
Washington Criminal Code – RCW 9A: Useful for understanding criminal offenses that may be relevant to investigative activities. DOL identifies RCW 9A as part of the legal resources for PI licensing/examination purposes. RCW Chapter 9A – Washington Criminal Code
Public Records – RCW 42.56: Important for investigators conducting public-records research and understanding Washington's Public Records Act. RCW Chapter 42.56 – Public Records Act