Virginia Law

Chapter 172. Regulations Relating to Private Security Services Businesses

Part I
Definitions

6VAC20-172-10. Definitions.

In addition to the words and terms defined in § 9.1-138 of the Code of Virginia, the following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Administrative Process Act" means Chapter 40 (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) of Title 2.2 of the Code of Virginia.

"Board" means the Criminal Justice Services Board or any successor board or agency.

"Date of hire" means the date any employee of a private security services business or training school performs services regulated or required to be regulated by the department.

"Department" or "DCJS" means the Department of Criminal Justice Services or any successor agency.

"Director" means the chief administrative officer of the department.

"Electronic images" means an acceptable method of maintaining required documentation through the scanning, storage, and maintenance of verifiable electronic copies of original documentation.

"Employee" means a natural person employed by a licensee to perform private security services that are regulated by the department.

"Firearms endorsement" means a method of regulation that identifies an individual registered as a private security registrant and has successfully completed the annual firearms training and has met the requirements as set forth in 6VAC20-174.

"Firm" means a business entity, regardless of method of organization, applying for an initial or renewal private security services business license or private security services training school certification.

"Incident" means an event that exceeds the normal extent of one's duties.

"Independent contractor" means a self-employed personal protection specialist or a private investigator who (i) maintains comprehensive liability insurance in an amount fixed by the department, (ii) has been issued a registration by the department, and (iii) enters into a contract to perform work for a private security business licensed to provide services within the Commonwealth.

"Intermediate weapon" means a tool not fundamentally designed to cause deadly force with conventional use. This would exclude all metal ammunition firearms or edged weapons. These weapons include baton/collapsible baton, chemical irritants, electronic restraining devices, projectiles, and other less lethal weapons as defined by the department.

"Licensed firm" means a business entity, regardless of method of organization, that holds a valid private security services business license issued by the department.

"Licensee" means a licensed private security services business.

"Official documentation" means personnel records; Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD214); copies of business licenses indicating ownership; law-enforcement transcripts; certificates of training completion; a signed letter provided directly by a current or previous employer detailing dates of employment and job duties; college transcripts; letters of commendation; private security services registrations, certifications or licenses from other states; and other employment, training, or experience verification documents. A resume is not considered official documentation.

"On duty" means the time during which private security services business personnel receive or are entitled to receive compensation for employment for which a registration or certification is required.

"Performance of his duties" means on duty in the context of this chapter.

"Person" means any individual, group of individuals, firm, company, corporation, partnership, business, trust, association, or other legal entity.

"Physical address" means the location of the building that houses a private security services business or training school or the location where the individual principals of a business reside. A post office box is not a physical address.

"Principal" means any sole proprietor, individual listed as an officer or director with the Virginia State Corporation Commission, board member of the association, or partner of a licensed firm or applicant for licensure.

"Private security services business personnel" means each employee of a private security services business who is employed as an unarmed security officer, armed security officer/courier, armored car personnel, security canine handler, detector canine handler, private investigator, personal protection specialist, alarm respondent, a locksmith, central station dispatcher, electronic security employee, an electronic security sales representative, electronic security technician, or electronic security technician's assistant.

"Reciprocity" means the relation existing between Virginia and any other state, commonwealth, or province as established by agreements approved by the board.

"Recognition" means the relation of accepting various application requirements between Virginia and any other state, commonwealth, or province as established by agreements approved by the board.

"Related field" means any field with training requirements, job duties, and experience similar to those of the private security services field in which the applicant wishes to be licensed, certified, or registered. This term includes law enforcement and certain categories of the military.

"This chapter" means the Regulations Relating to Private Security Services Businesses (6VAC20-172).

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015; amended, Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2017.

Part II
Application Fees

6VAC20-172-20. Application fees.

A. Schedule of fees. The fees listed below reflect the costs of handling, issuance, and production associated with administering and processing applications for licensing, certification, and other administrative requests for services relating to private security services.

B. Reinstatement fee.

1. The department shall collect a reinstatement fee for license or certification renewal applications not received on or before the expiration date of the expiring license or certification.

2. The reinstatement fee shall be 50% above and beyond the renewal fee of the license, certification, or any other credential issued by the department wherein a fee is established and renewal is required.

C. Dishonor of fee payment due to insufficient funds.

1. The department may suspend the license, certification, or authority it has granted any person who submits a check or similar instrument for payment of a fee required by statute or regulation that is not honored by the financial institution upon which the check or similar instrument is drawn.

2. The suspension shall become effective upon receipt of written notice of the dishonored payment. Upon notification of the suspension, the person or licensee may request that the suspended license, certification, or authority be reinstated, provided payment of the dishonored amount plus any penalties or fees required under the statute or regulation accompanies the request. Suspension under this provision shall be exempt from the Administrative Process Act.

D. Manual processing service fee. The department shall collect a $5.00 service fee for any applications under this chapter that are submitted to the department by other means than the available electronic methods established by the department.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

Part III
Criminal History Records Search

6VAC20-172-30. Fingerprint processing.

A. On or before the first date of hire, each person applying for licensure as a private security services business, including principals, supervisors, and electronic security employees or for certification as a compliance agent shall submit to the department:

1. One completed fingerprint card provided by the department or another electronic method approved by the department;

2. A fingerprint processing application;

3. The applicable, nonrefundable fee; and

4. All criminal history conviction information on a form provided by the department.

B. The department shall submit those fingerprints to the Virginia State Police for the purpose of conducting a Virginia Criminal History Records search and a National Criminal Records search to determine whether the individual or individuals have a record of conviction.

C. Fingerprint cards found to be unclassifiable will suspend all action on the application pending the resubmission of a classifiable fingerprint card. The applicant shall be so notified in writing and must submit a new fingerprint card within 30 days of notification before the processing of his application shall resume. If a fingerprint card is not submitted within the 30 days, the initial fingerprint application process will be required to include applicable application fees.

D. If the applicant is denied by DCJS, the department will notify the applicant by letter regarding the reasons for the denial. The compliance agent will also be notified in writing by DCJS that the applicant has been denied.

E. Fingerprint applications will be active for 120 days from the date of submittal. Applications for licenses and certifications must be submitted within that 120-day period or initial fingerprint submittal will be required.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

Part IV
Business License Application Procedures; Administrative Requirements; Standards of Conduct

6VAC20-172-40. Initial business license application.

A. Prior to the issuance of a private security services business license, the applicant shall meet or exceed the requirements of licensing and application submittal to the department as set forth in this section.

B. Each person seeking a license shall file a completed application provided by the department including:

1. For each principal and supervisor of the applying business and for each electronic security employee of an electronic security services business, his fingerprints pursuant to this chapter;

2. A certificate of insurance reflecting the department as a certificate holder and showing a policy of comprehensive general liability insurance in the minimum coverage amount of $1 million of general aggregate liability insurance issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in Virginia.

a. Every personal protection specialist and private investigator who has been issued a registration by the department and is hired as an independent contractor by a licensed private security services business shall maintain comprehensive general liability insurance in the minimum coverage amount of $1 million of general aggregate liability insurance; and

b. Documentation verifying the personal protection specialist or private investigator has obtained the required insurance shall be provided to the private security services business prior to the hiring of such independent contractor;

3. For each nonresident applicant for a license, on a form provided by the department, a completed irrevocable consent for the department to serve as service agent for all actions filed in any court in this Commonwealth;

4. For each applicant for a license except a sole proprietor or partnership, the identification number issued by the Virginia State Corporation Commission for verification that the entity is authorized to conduct business in the Commonwealth;

5. A physical address in Virginia where records required to be maintained by the Code of Virginia and this chapter are kept and available for inspection by the department. A post office box is not a physical address;

6. On the license application, designation of at least one individual as compliance agent who is certified or eligible for certification;

7. The applicable, nonrefundable license application fee; and

8. Designation on the license application of the type of private security business license the applicant is seeking. The initial business license fee includes one category. A separate fee will be charged for each additional category. The separate categories are identified as follows: (i) security officers/couriers (armed and unarmed), (ii) private investigators, (iii) electronic security personnel, (iv) armored car personnel, (v) personal protection specialists, (vi) locksmiths, and (vii) detector canine handlers and security canine handlers. Alarm respondents crossover into both the security officer and electronic security category; therefore, if an applicant is licensed in either of these categories, he can provide these services without an additional category fee.

C. Upon completion of the initial license application requirements, the department may issue an initial license for a period not to exceed 24 months.

D. The department may issue a letter of temporary licensure to businesses seeking licensure under § 9.1-139 of the Code of Virginia for not more than 120 days while awaiting the results of the state and national fingerprint search conducted on the principals and compliance agent of the business, provided the applicant has met the necessary conditions and requirements.

E. A new license is required whenever there is any change in the ownership or type of organization of the licensed entity that results in the creation of a new legal entity. Such changes include:

1. Death of a sole proprietor;

2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and

3. Formation or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, or an association or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

F. Each license shall be issued to the legal business entity named on the application, whether it is a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or other legal entity, and shall be valid only for the legal entity named on the license. No license shall be assigned or otherwise transferred to another legal entity.

G. Each licensee shall comply with all applicable administrative requirements and standards of conduct and shall not engage in any acts prohibited by applicable sections of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

H. Each licensee shall be a United States citizen or legal resident alien of the United States.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015; amended, Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

6VAC20-172-50. Renewal business license application.

A. Applications for license renewal should be received by the department at least 30 days prior to expiration. The department will provide a renewal notification to the last known mailing address of the licensee. However, if a renewal notification is not received by the licensee, it is the responsibility of the licensee to ensure renewal requirements are filed with the department. License renewal applications must be received by the department and all license requirements must be completed prior to the expiration date or shall be subject to all applicable, nonrefundable renewal fees plus reinstatement fees. Outstanding fees or monetary penalties owed to DCJS must be paid prior to issuance of said renewal.

B. Licenses will be renewed for a period not to exceed 24 months.

C. The department may renew a license when the following are received by the department:

1. A properly completed renewal application;

2. A certificate of insurance reflecting the department as a certificate holder and showing a policy of comprehensive general liability insurance in the minimum coverage amount of $1 million general aggregate issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in Virginia.

a. Every personal protection specialist and private investigator who has been issued a registration by the department and is hired as an independent contractor by a licensed private security services business shall maintain comprehensive general liability insurance in the minimum coverage amount of $1 million of general aggregate liability insurance; and

b. Documentation verifying the personal protection specialist or private investigator has obtained the required insurance shall be provided to the private security services business prior to the hiring of such independent contractor;

3. Fingerprint records for any new or additional principals submitted to the department within 30 days of their hire date provided, however, that any change in the ownership or type of organization of the licensed entity has not resulted in the creation of a new legal entity;

4. On the application, designation of at least one compliance agent who has satisfactorily completed all applicable training requirements;

5. The applicable, nonrefundable license renewal fee and applicable category of service fees; and

6. On the first day of employment, each new and additional supervisor's fingerprints submitted to the department pursuant to § 9.1-139 I of the Code of Virginia.

D. Each business applying for a license renewal shall be in good standing in every jurisdiction where licensed, registered, or certified in a private security services or related field. This subsection shall not apply to any probationary periods during which the individual is eligible to operate under the license, registration, or certification.

E. Any renewal application received after the expiration date of a license shall be subject to the requirements set forth by the reinstatement provisions of this chapter.

F. On the renewal application the licensee must designate the type of private security business license he wishes to renew. The fee will be based upon the category selected on the renewal application.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015; amended, Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

6VAC20-172-60. General requirements.

All private security services licensed businesses are required to maintain administrative requirements and standards of conduct as determined by the Code of Virginia, department guidelines, and this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-70. Business administrative requirements.

A licensee shall:

1. Maintain at all times with the department its physical address in Virginia where records required to be maintained by the Code of Virginia and this chapter are kept and available for inspection by the department, the physical address of all locations in Virginia utilized by the licensee in which regulated services are offered, and email address if applicable. A post office box is not a physical address. Notification of any change shall be in writing and received by the department no later than 10 days after the effective date of the change.

2. Maintain at all times with the department its current operating name and all fictitious names. Any name change reports shall be submitted in writing within 10 days after the occurrence of such change and accompanied by certified true copies of the documents that establish the name change.

3. Report in writing to the department any change in its ownership or principals that does not result in the creation of a new legal entity. Such written report shall be received by the department within 30 days after the occurrence of such change to include fingerprint cards pursuant to this chapter.

4. Report in writing to the department any change in the entity of the licensee that results in continued operation requiring a license. Such written report shall be received by the department within 10 days after the occurrence of such change.

5. Maintain at all times current liability coverage at least in the minimum amounts prescribed by the application requirements of this chapter. Each day of uninsured activity would be construed as an individual violation of this requirement.

6. Maintain at all times with the department a completed irrevocable consent for service if the licensee is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Licensees that move their business from the Commonwealth shall file a completed irrevocable consent for services within 15 days of the change in location.

7. Employ at all times at least one individual designated as a compliance agent who is in good standing and is certified pursuant to this chapter. In the event there is more than one compliance agent designated for the business, designate one as the primary compliance agent and point of contact.

8. Maintain at all times and for a period of not less than three years from the date of termination of employment the following documentation concerning all regulants: documentation or electronic images of the date of hire in the regulated category; documentation that the fingerprint processing application was submitted on the date of hire; verification that the employee is a United States citizen or legal resident alien and is properly registered or certified and trained; and current physical and mailing addresses for all regulated employees and telephone numbers if applicable.

9. Upon termination of employment of a certified compliance agent, notify the department in writing within 10 calendar days. This notification shall include the name of the individual responsible for the licensee's adherence to applicable administrative requirements and standards of conduct during the period of replacement.

10. Within 90 days of termination of employment of the sole remaining compliance agent, submit the name of a new compliance agent who is eligible for certification. Individuals not currently eligible may pursue certification pursuant to this chapter. This notification shall be in writing and signed by a principal of the business and the designated compliance agent.

11. Prominently display at all times for public inspection, in a conspicuous place where the public has access, the business license issued by the department.

12. Ensure that all individuals submit fingerprint cards pursuant to this chapter and as required by the Code of Virginia.

13. Inform the department in writing within 10 days of receiving knowledge of any principal, partner, officer, or compliance agent regulated by this chapter or any employee regulated or required to be regulated by the board, pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted or found guilty of any felony or of a misdemeanor as outlined in § 9.1-139 K of the Code of Virginia.

14. Inform the department in writing within 10 days of receiving knowledge of any principal, licensee, subsidiary, partner, officer, or compliance agent regulated by this chapter, or any employee regulated or required to be regulated by the board, having been found guilty by any court or administrative body of competent jurisdiction to have violated the private security services business statutes or regulations of that jurisdiction.

15. On a form provided by the department and within 10 calendar days of receiving knowledge of an incident, submit a report of any incident in which any registrant has discharged a firearm while on duty, excluding any training exercise.

16. In the event a complaint against the licensee is received by the department, be required to furnish documentary evidence (written agreement) of the terms agreed to between licensee and client, which shall include at a minimum the specific scope of services and fees assessed for such services. The licensee shall retain a copy for a period of not less than three years from completion of said agreement.

17. Not fail to honor the terms and conditions of a warranty or written agreement.

18. In the event a licensee sells or otherwise transfers the ownership of a monitoring agreement of an electronic security customer in Virginia, notify the end user, in writing, within 30 days of the transfer of monitoring services. No licensee shall sell or otherwise transfer to an entity not licensed in Virginia.

19. Ensure that all employees regulated by the board carry a department issued registration card or temporary registration letter along with a photo identification while on duty.

20. Ensure that all regulated employees authorized to provide private security services while completing compulsory minimum training standards pursuant to § 9.1-139 H of the Code of Virginia carry a photo identification along with an authorization form provided by the department while on duty.

21. Maintain a written use of force policy dictating the business' policy for using deadly force and for use of less lethal force. A statement certifying that the employee has read and understands the business' use of force policy must be signed by each employee who is permitted to carry firearms or intermediate weapons and maintained in the employee's file.

22. Maintain records for individual employees permitted to carry intermediate weapons while on duty to verify training in the use of the permitted intermediate weapons.

23. Maintain at all times and for a period of not less than three years from the date of termination, decertification, or other separation records of detector canine handler team certifications to include a photo of detector canine teams utilized to provide regulated private security services.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-80. Business standards of conduct.

A licensee shall:

1. Conform to all requirements pursuant to the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

2. Ensure that all employees regulated or required to be regulated by the board conform to all application requirements, administrative requirements, and standards of conduct pursuant to the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-174, and this chapter.

3. Not direct any employee regulated or required to be regulated by the board to engage in any acts prohibited by the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-174, and this chapter.

4. Employ individuals regulated or required to be regulated as follows:

a. A licensee shall employ or otherwise utilize individuals possessing a valid registration issued by the department showing the registration categories required to perform duties requiring registration pursuant to the Code of Virginia;

b. A licensee shall not allow individuals requiring registration as armored car personnel, armed security officers/couriers, armed alarm respondents with firearm endorsement, private investigators, personal protection specialists, detector canine handlers, or security canine handlers to perform private security services until such time as the individual has been issued a registration by the department;

c. A licensee may employ individuals requiring registration as an unarmed alarm respondent, a locksmith, a central station dispatcher, an electronic security sales representative, an electronic security technician, an unarmed armored car driver, an unarmed security officer, or an electronic security technician's assistant for a period not to exceed 90 consecutive days in any registered category listed in this subdivision 4 c while completing the compulsory minimum training standards as set forth in 6VAC20-174 provided:

(1) The individual's fingerprint card has been submitted;

(2) The individual is not employed in excess of 120 days without having been issued a registration from the department; and

(3) The individual did not fail to timely complete the required training with a previous employer;

d. A licensee shall not employ any individual carrying or having access to a firearm in the performance of his duties who has not obtained a valid registration and firearms endorsement from the department; and

e. A licensee shall maintain appropriate documentation to verify compliance with these requirements. A licensee shall maintain these documents after employment is terminated for a period of not less than three years.

5. Not contract or subcontract any private security services in the Commonwealth of Virginia to a person not licensed by the department. Verification of a contractor's or subcontractor's license issued by the department shall be maintained for a period of not less than three years.

6. Enter into contracts with self-employed personal protection specialists and private investigators to work as independent contractors in accordance with § 9.1-144 of the Code of Virginia and require documentation verifying the personal protection specialist or private investigator has obtained the required insurance in accordance with 6VAC20-172-40 and 6VAC20-172-50 prior to the hiring of such independent contractor.

7. Ensure that the compliance agent conforms to all applicable application requirements, administrative requirements, and standards of conduct pursuant to the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

8. Permit the department during regular business hours to inspect, review, or copy those documents, electronic images, business records, or training records that are required to be maintained by the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

9. Not violate or aid and abet others in violating the provisions of Article 4 (§ 9.1-138 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 9.1 of the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-173, 6VAC20-174, or this chapter.

10. Not commit any act or omission that results in a private security license or registration being suspended, revoked, or not renewed, or the licensee or registrant otherwise being disciplined in any jurisdiction.

11. Not have been convicted or found guilty in any jurisdiction of the United States of any felony or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, assault and battery, damage to real or personal property, controlled substances or imitation controlled substances as defined in Article 1 (§ 18.2-247 et seq.) of Chapter 7 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia, prohibited sexual behavior as described in Article 7 (§ 18.2-61 et seq.) of Chapter 4 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia, or firearms. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purpose of this chapter. The record of conviction certified or authenticated in such form as to be admissible in evidence under the laws of the jurisdiction where convicted shall be prima facie evidence of such guilt.

12. Not obtain or aid and abet others to obtain a license, license renewal, registration, registration renewal, certification, certification renewal, or firearms endorsement through any fraud or misrepresentation.

13. Include the business license number issued by the department on all business advertising materials pursuant to the Code of Virginia. Business advertising materials containing information regarding more than one licensee must contain the business license numbers of each licensee identified.

14. Not conduct a private security services business in such a manner as to endanger the public health, safety, and welfare.

15. Not falsify or aid and abet others in falsifying training records for the purpose of obtaining a license, registration, or certification.

16. Not represent as one's own a license issued to another private security services business.

17. When providing central station monitoring services, attempt to verify the legitimacy of a burglar alarm activation by calling the site of the alarm. If unable to make contact, call one additional number provided by the alarm user who has the authority to cancel the dispatch. This shall not apply if the alarm user has provided written authorization requesting immediate or one-call dispatch to both his local police department and his dealer of record. This shall not apply to duress or hold-up alarms.

18. Not perform any unlawful or negligent act resulting in loss, injury, or death to any person.

19. Utilize vehicles for private security services using or displaying an amber flashing light only as specifically authorized by § 46.2-1025 A 9 of the Code of Virginia.

20. Not use or display the state seal of Virginia or the seal of the Department of Criminal Justice Services, or any portion thereof, or the seal of any political subdivision of the Commonwealth, or any portion thereof, as a part of any logo, stationery, letter, training document, business card, badge, patch, insignia, or other form of identification or advertisement.

21. Not provide information obtained by the firm or its employees to any person other than the client who secured the services of the licensee without the client's prior written consent. Provision of information in response to official requests from law-enforcement agencies, the courts, or the department shall not constitute a violation of this chapter. Provision of information to law-enforcement agencies pertinent to criminal activity or to planned criminal activity shall not constitute a violation of this chapter.

22. Not engage in acts of unprofessional conduct in the practice of private security services.

23. Not engage in acts of negligent or incompetent private security services.

24. Not make any misrepresentation or false promise to a private security services business client or potential private security services business client.

25. Not violate any state or local ordinance.

26. Satisfy all judgments to include binding arbitrations related to private security services not provided.

27. Not publish or cause to be published any material relating to private security services that contains an assertion, representation, or statement of fact that is false, deceptive, or misleading.

28. Not conduct private security business under a fictitious or assumed name unless the name is on file with the Department of Criminal Justice Services. This does not apply to a private investigator conducting a "pretext," provided that the private investigator does not state that he is representing a private security business that does not exist or otherwise prohibited under federal law.

29. Not act as or be an ostensible licensee for undisclosed persons who do or will control directly or indirectly the operations of the licensee's business.

30. Not provide false or misleading information to representatives of the department.

31. Not provide materially incorrect, misleading, incomplete, or untrue information on any email, application, or other document filed with the department.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015; amended, Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2017.

Part V
Compliance Agent Application Procedures; Administrative Requirements; Standards of Conduct

6VAC20-172-90. Compliance agent certification requirements.

A. Each person applying for certification as compliance agent shall meet the following minimum requirements for eligibility:

1. Be a minimum of 18 years of age; and

2. Be a United States citizen or legal resident alien of the United States.

B. Each person applying for certification as compliance agent shall file with the department:

1. A properly completed application provided by the department;

2. Fingerprint card pursuant to this chapter; and

3. The applicable, nonrefundable application fee.

C. The department may issue a certification for a period not to exceed 24 months when the following are received by the department:

1. A properly completed application provided by the department;

2. The applicable, nonrefundable certification fee;

3. Verification of eligibility pursuant to § 9.1-139 A of the Code of Virginia; and

4. Verification of satisfactory completion of department regulatory compliance entry-level training requirements pursuant to this chapter.

D. Each compliance agent shall comply with all applicable administrative requirements and standards of conduct and shall not engage in any acts prohibited by applicable sections of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015; amended, Virginia Register Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

6VAC20-172-100. Compliance agent certification renewal requirements.

A. Applications for certification renewal should be received by the department at least 30 days prior to expiration. The department will provide a renewal notification to the last known mailing address or email address provided by the certified compliance agent. However, if a renewal notification is not received by the compliance agent, it is the responsibility of the compliance agent to ensure renewal requirements are filed with the department. Certification renewal applications received by the department after the expiration date shall be subject to all applicable, nonrefundable renewal fees plus reinstatement fees.

B. Each person applying for compliance agent certification renewal shall meet the minimum requirements for eligibility as follows:

1. Successfully apply on an application provided by the department and complete the in-service regulatory compliance agent classroom training session provided by the department, or successfully complete an approved online in-service training session pursuant to this chapter. Training must be completed within the 12 months immediately preceding the expiration date of the current certification; and

2. Be in good standing in every jurisdiction where licensed, registered, or certified in private security services or a related field. This subdivision shall not apply to any probationary periods during which the individual is eligible to operate under the license, registration, or certification.

C. The department may renew a certification for a period not to exceed 24 months.

D. The department may renew a certification when the following are received by the department:

1. A properly completed renewal application provided by the department;

2. The applicable, nonrefundable certification renewal fee; and

3. Verification of satisfactory completion of department regulatory compliance agent in-service training.

E. Any renewal application received after the expiration date of a certification shall be subject to the requirements set forth by the reinstatement provisions of this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-110. Compliance agent regulatory compliance training requirements.

A. Each eligible person applying to attend a regulatory compliance entry-level or in-service training session provided by the department shall file with the department:

1. A properly completed application provided by the department; and

2. The applicable, nonrefundable application fee.

Upon receipt of the training enrollment application the department will assign the applicant to a training session provided by the department. Applicants for initial certification as a compliance agent must achieve a minimum passing score of 80% on the entry-level regulatory compliance training examination.

B. Department entry-level regulatory compliance training must be completed within 12 months of approval of application for an initial compliance agent certification.

C. Each person certified by the department to act as a compliance agent shall complete the department in-service regulatory compliance training within the last 12-month period of certification.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-120. Compliance agent administrative requirements and standards of conduct.

Private security services certified compliance agents are required to maintain administrative requirements and standards of conduct as determined by the Code of Virginia, department guidelines, and this chapter. A compliance agent shall:

1. Conform to all requirements pursuant to the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

2. Maintain at all times with the department his mailing address and email address if applicable. Written notification of any change of address shall be received by the department no later than 10 days after the effective date of the change.

3. Not violate or aid and abet others in violating the provisions of Article 4 (§ 9.1-138 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 9.1 of the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-173, 6VAC20-174, or this chapter.

4. Not commit any act or omission that results in a private security license or registration being suspended, revoked, or not renewed, or the licensee or registrant otherwise being disciplined in any jurisdiction.

5. Not have been convicted or found guilty in any jurisdiction of the United States of any felony or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, assault and battery, damage to real or personal property, controlled substances or imitation controlled substances as defined in Article 1 (§ 18.2-247 et seq.) of Chapter 7 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia, prohibited sexual behavior as described in Article 7 (§ 18.2-61 et seq.) of Chapter 4 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia, or firearms. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purpose of this chapter. The record of conviction certified or authenticated in such form as to be admissible in evidence under the laws of the jurisdiction where convicted shall be prima facie evidence of such guilt.

6. Inform the department, and the licensee for which the individual is designated as compliance agent if applicable, in writing within 10 days after pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted or found guilty of any felony or of a misdemeanor as outlined in § 9.1-139 K of the Code of Virginia.

7. Inform the department, and the licensee for which the individual is designated as compliance agent if applicable, in writing within 10 days after having been found guilty by any court or administrative body of competent jurisdiction to have violated the private security services business statutes or regulations of that jurisdiction.

8. Not obtain a license, license renewal, registration, registration renewal, certification, or certification renewal through any fraud or misrepresentation.

9. Be designated with the department as compliance agent for a licensee and shall:

a. Ensure that the licensee and all employees regulated or required to be regulated by the board conform to all application requirements, administrative requirements, and standards of conduct pursuant to the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-174, and this chapter;

b. Maintain documentation for all employees or persons otherwise utilized that verifies compliance with requirements pursuant to the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-174, and this chapter;

c. Notify the department in writing within 10 calendar days following termination of his employment as compliance agent for the licensee;

d. Ensure that all employees regulated by the board carry a department-issued registration card or temporary registration letter along with a photo identification while on duty; and

e. Ensure that all regulated employees authorized to provide private security services while completing compulsory minimum training standards pursuant to § 9.1-139 H of the Code of Virginia carry a photo identification along with an authorization form provided by the department while on duty.

10. Not engage in acts of unprofessional conduct in the practice of private security services.

11. Not engage in acts of negligent or incompetent private security services.

12. Not make any misrepresentation or false promise to a private security services business client or potential private security services business client.

13. Satisfy all judgments to include binding arbitrations related to private security services not provided.

14. Not publish or cause to be published any material relating to private security services that contain an assertion, representation, or statement of fact that is false, deceptive, or misleading.

15. Not conduct private security business under a fictitious or assumed name unless the name is on file with the Department of Criminal Justice Services. This does not apply to a private investigator conducting a "pretext," provided that the private investigator does not state that he is representing a private security business that does not exist or otherwise prohibited under federal laws.

16. Not violate any state or local ordinances related to private security services.

17. Not provide false or misleading information to representatives of the department.

18. Not use access to the department's database information for any other purpose than verifying employee's application status.

19. Not allow another to use access granted to the department's database for any purpose.

20. Not provide materially incorrect, misleading, incomplete, or untrue information on any email, application, or other document filed with the department.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

Part VI
Reinstatement and Renewal Extensions

6VAC20-172-130. Reinstatement.

A. Any business license or compliance agent certification not renewed on or before the expiration date shall become null and void. Pursuant to the Code of Virginia, all such persons must currently be licensed or certified with the department to provide private security services.

B. A renewal application must be received by the department within 60 days following the expiration date of the license or certification in order to be reinstated by the department providing all renewal requirements have been met. Prior to reinstatement the following shall be submitted to the department:

1. The appropriate renewal application and completion of renewal requirements including required training pursuant to this chapter; and

2. The applicable, nonrefundable reinstatement fee pursuant to this chapter.

The department shall not reinstate renewal applications received after the 60-day reinstatement period has expired. It is unlawful to operate without a valid certification or license, including during the reinstatement period.

C. No license or certification shall be renewed or reinstated when all renewal application requirements are received by the department more than 60 days following the expiration date of the license or certification. After that date, the applicant shall meet all initial application requirements, including applicable training requirements.

D. Following submittal of all reinstatement requirements, the department will process and may approve any application for reinstatement pursuant to the renewal process for the application.

E. When a license or certification is reinstated, the applicant shall continue to have the same DCJS number and shall be assigned an expiration date two years from the previous expiration date of the license or certification.

F. An applicant who reinstates shall be regarded as having been continuously licensed or certified without interruption. Therefore, the applicant shall remain under the disciplinary authority of the department during this entire period and may be held accountable for his activities during this period.

G. A person who fails to reinstate his license or certification shall be regarded as unlicensed or uncertified from the expiration date of the license or certification forward.

H. Nothing in this chapter shall divest the department of its authority to discipline a person for a violation of the law or regulations during the period of time for which the person was licensed or certified.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-140. Renewal extension.

A. An extension of the time period to meet renewal requirements may be approved only under specific circumstances that do not allow private security personnel or businesses to complete the required procedures within the prescribed time period. The following are the only circumstances for which extensions may be granted:

1. Extended illness;

2. Extended injury;

3. Military or foreign service; or

4. Any emergency temporary assignment of private security personnel for purposes of natural disaster, homeland security, or documented threat by the private security services business for which he is employed.

B. A request for extension shall:

1. Be submitted in writing, dated, and signed by the individual or principal of a licensed entity prior to the expiration date of the time limit required for completion of the requirements. This requirement may be waived by the department based on an evaluation of the justification for waiver;

2. Indicate the projected date the person or business will be able to comply with the requirements; and

3. Include a copy of the physician's record of the injury or illness, a copy of the government orders, or documentation of emergency temporary assignment.

C. Applications for additional extensions may be approved upon written request of the person or business.

D. The total time for renewal extension, including additional extensions, shall not exceed 12 months beyond the original expiration date. If renewal requirements are not met during the period of extension, the individual must complete all initial training requirements to include applicable entry-level training.

E. The private security services person or business shall be nonoperational during the period of extension unless (i) otherwise issued a temporary exemption and (ii) authorized by the department pursuant to § 9.1-139 of the Code of Virginia.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

Part VII
Sanctions; Exemptions; Recognition and Reciprocity

6VAC20-172-150. Denial, probation, suspension, and revocation.

A. The department may deny a license or certification in which any person or principal of an applying business has been convicted in any jurisdiction of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, assault and battery, damage to real or personal property, controlled substances or imitation controlled substances as defined in Article 1 (§ 18.2-247 et seq.) of Chapter 7 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia, prohibited sexual behavior as described in Article 7 (§ 18.2-61 et seq.) of Chapter 4 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia, or firearms. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purposes of this chapter. The record of a conviction, authenticated in such form as to be admissible in evidence under the laws of the jurisdiction where convicted, shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such conviction.

B. The department may deny a license or certification in which any person or principal of an applying business (i) has not maintained good standing in every jurisdiction where licensed, registered, or certified in a private security services or related field; (ii) has had his license, registration, or certification denied upon initial application, suspended, revoked, surrendered, or not renewed; or (iii) has otherwise been disciplined in connection with a disciplinary action prior to applying for licensing, registration, or certification in Virginia.

C. Any false or misleading statement on any state application or supporting documentation is grounds for denial or revocation and may be subject to criminal prosecution.

D. The department may deny licensure or certification for other just cause.

E. A licensee or compliance agent shall be subject to disciplinary action for violations or noncompliance with the Code of Virginia or this chapter. Disciplinary action shall be in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Administrative Process Act. The disciplinary action may include but is not limited to a letter of censure, fine, probation, suspension, or revocation.

F. If a registrant or certified person is subject to disciplinary action for violations or noncompliance with the Code of Virginia, 6VAC20-174, or this chapter, the department will notify the last known licensed private security services business by which the registrant or certified person was employed or affiliated.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-160. Exemptions; recognition and reciprocity.

A. The department may grant a temporary exemption from the requirements for licensing or certification for a period of not more than 30 days in a situation deemed an emergency by the department.

B. The department may recognize administrative and application requirements for licensing or certification based on agreements that have been entered into with other states and approved by the board.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

Part VIII
Complaints; Department Action and Sanctions; Adjudication

6VAC20-172-170. Complaint submittal requirements.

A. In accordance with § 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia, this chapter establishes standards designed to secure the public safety and welfare against incompetent or unqualified persons engaging in private security services. It shall be the responsibility of the licensee, its compliance agents, and its employees to provide private security services in a professional and ethical manner utilizing sound business practices.

B. Any aggrieved or interested person may file a complaint against any individual, person, firm, or licensed firm whose conduct and activities are regulated or required to be regulated by the board. The complaint must allege a violation of the law governing private security services or this chapter.

C. Complaints may be submitted:

1. In writing, or on a form provided by the department, by a signed complainant;

2. In writing, submitted anonymously, and providing sufficient detailed information for the department to conduct an investigation; or

3. By telephone, providing the complaint alleges activities that constitute a life-threatening situation or have resulted in personal injury or loss to the public or to a consumer or that may result in imminent harm or personal injury and that provide sufficient detailed information for the department to conduct an investigation.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-180. Department investigation.

A. The department may initiate or conduct an investigation based on any information received or action taken by the department to determine compliance with the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

B. Documentation.

1. Persons regulated or required to be regulated by this chapter pursuant to the Code of Virginia are required to provide department investigators with any and all records required to be maintained by this chapter.

a. This shall not be construed to authorize the department to demand records protected under applicable federal and state laws. If such records are necessary to complete an investigation, the department may seek a subpoena to satisfy the request.

b. The department shall endeavor to review, and request as necessary, only those records required to verify alleged violations of compliance with the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

2. The department shall endeavor to keep any documentation, evidence, or information on an investigation confidential until such time as adjudication has been completed, at which time information may be released upon request pursuant to applicable federal and state laws or regulations.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-190. Disciplinary action; sanctions; publication of records.

A. Each person subject to jurisdiction of this chapter who violates any statute or regulation pertaining to private security services shall be subject to sanctions imposed by the department regardless of criminal prosecution.

B. The department may impose any of the following sanctions, singly or in combination, when it finds the respondent in violation of or in noncompliance with the Code of Virginia or this chapter:

1. Letter of reprimand or censure;

2. Probation for any period of time;

3. Suspension of license, certification, or approval granted for any period of time;

4. Revocation;

5. Refusal to issue, renew, or reinstate a license, certification, or approval;

6. Fine not to exceed $2,500 per violation as long as the respondent was not criminally prosecuted;

7. Remedial training; or

8. Conditional agreements.

C. The department may conduct hearings and issue cease and desist orders to persons who engage in activities prohibited by this chapter but do not hold a valid license or certification. Any person in violation of a cease and desist order entered by the department shall be subject to all of the remedies provided by law and, in addition, shall be subject to a civil penalty payable to the party injured by the violation.

D. The director may summarily suspend a license or certification under this chapter without a hearing, simultaneously with the filing of a formal complaint and notice for a hearing, if the director finds that the continued operations of the licensee or certified person would constitute a life-threatening situation, has resulted in personal injury or loss to the public or to a consumer, or may result in imminent harm, personal injury, or loss.

E. All proceedings pursuant to this section are matters of public record and shall be preserved. The department may publish a list of the names and addresses of all persons, licensees, firms, compliance agents, and licensed firms whose conduct and activities are subject to this chapter and have been sanctioned or denied licensure, certification, or approval.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-200. Fines; administrative and investigative costs.

A. The department may recover costs of any investigation and adjudication of any violations of the Code of Virginia or regulations that result in a sanction, including fine, probation, suspension, revocation, or denial of any license or certification. Such costs shall be in addition to any monetary penalty that may be imposed.

B. All monetary penalties imposed as a sanction shall be deposited into the state treasury to the credit of the State Literary Fund.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-210. Hearing process.

Following a preliminary investigative process, the department may initiate action to resolve the complaint through an informal fact-finding conference or formal hearing as established in this chapter. Pursuant to the authority conferred in § 9.1-141 C 6 of the Code of Virginia and in accordance with the procedures set forth by the Administrative Process Act and the procedures prescribed in this part, the department is empowered to receive, review, investigate, and adjudicate complaints concerning the conduct of any person whose activities are regulated by the board. The board will hear and act upon appeals arising from decisions made by the director. In all case decisions, the Criminal Justice Services Board shall be the final agency authority.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-220. Informal fact-finding conference.

The purpose of an informal fact-finding conference is to resolve allegations through informal consultation and negotiation. Informal fact-finding conferences shall be conducted in accordance with § 2.2-4019 of the Code of Virginia. The respondent, the person against whom the complaint is filed, may appeal the decision of an informal fact-finding conference and request a formal hearing, provided that written notification is given to the department within 30 days of the date the informal fact-finding decision notice was served, or the date it was mailed to the respondent, whichever occurred first. In the event the informal fact-finding decision was served by mail, three days shall be added to that period.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-230. Formal hearing.

A. Formal hearing proceedings may be initiated in any case in which the basic laws provide expressly for a case decision, or in any case to the extent the informal fact-finding conference has not been conducted or an appeal thereto has been timely received. Formal hearings shall be conducted in accordance with § 2.2-4020 of the Code of Virginia. The findings and decision of the director resulting from a formal hearing may be appealed to the board.

B. After a formal hearing pursuant to § 2.2-4020 of the Code of Virginia wherein a sanction is imposed to fine or to suspend, revoke, or deny issuance or renewal of any license, certification, or approval, the department may assess the holder thereof the cost of conducting such hearing when the department has final authority to grant such license, certification, or approval, unless the department determines that the offense was inadvertent or done in good faith belief that such act did not violate a statute or regulation. The cost shall be limited to (i) the reasonable hourly rate for the hearing officer and (ii) the actual cost of recording the proceedings. This assessment shall be in addition to any fine imposed by sanctions.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-240. Appeals.

The findings and the decision of the director may be appealed to the board provided that written notification is given to the attention of the Director, Department of Criminal Justice Services, within 30 days following the date notification of the hearing decision was served, or the date it was mailed to the respondent, whichever occurred first. In the event the hearing decision is served by mail, three days shall be added to that period. (Rule 2A:2 of Rules of the Virginia Supreme Court)

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

6VAC20-172-250. Court review; appeal of final agency order.

A. The agency's final administrative decision (final agency order) may be appealed. Any person affected by and claiming the unlawfulness of the agency's final case decision shall have the right to the direct review thereof by an appropriate and timely court action. Such appeal actions shall be initiated in the circuit court of jurisdiction in which the party applying for review resides; however, if such party is not a resident of Virginia, the venue shall be in the City of Richmond, Virginia.

B. Notification shall be given to the attention of the Director, Department of Criminal Justice Services, in writing within 30 days of the date notification of the board decision was served, or the date it was mailed to the respondent, whichever occurred first. In the event the board decision was served by mail, three days shall be added to that period. (Rule 2A:2 of Rules of the Virginia Supreme Court)

C. During all judicial proceedings incidental to such disciplinary action, the sanctions imposed by the board shall remain in effect, unless the court issues a stay of the order.

Statutory Authority

§ 9.1-141 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 25, eff. September 9, 2015.

Forms (6VAC20-172)

Business

Private Security Services - Business Compliance Inspection Form (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Irrevocable Consent for Service Form (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Initial Business License Application (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Renewal Business License Application (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Bond (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Compliance Agent Designation and Acceptance Form (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Additional License Category Application (eff. 10/2012)

Private Security Services - Address Change Form for Businesses (eff. 10/2012)

Compliance Agent

Compliance Agent - Training and Certification (eff. 10/2012)

Compliance Agent - In-Service Training Enrollment (eff. 10/2012)

Compliance Agent - Certification Application and Online Training Exemption Form (eff. 10/2012)

Fingerprint Processing

DCJS Fingerprint Cards Order Form (undated)

Fingerprint Processing Application (eff. 10/2012)

Criminal History Supplemental Form (eff. 10/2012)

Fingerprint Application Instructions (eff. 10/2012)

Acceptable Documents for Verifying Legal Presence/Name Change (eff. 10/2012)

Miscellaneous

Complaint Form (eff. 10/2012)

Firearms Discharge Report (eff. 10/2012)

Request for Extension Form (eff. 10/2012)

Individual Address Change Form (eff. 10/2012)

Credit Card Authorization Form (eff. 10/2012)