New York — Private Investigator Bond
Applying for a New York private investigator license? The Department of State's application calls for a $10,000 bond for PI applicants. Start your bond application through The Southern Agency using Purchase Now.
Continue to our secure checkout partner, Propeller (opens in a new tab).
- Recorded state
- New York
- Bond type
- Private Investigator / Detective Bond
- Category
- Professional & occupational licenses
What this bond does
The bond supports the New York private investigator licensing file. It is not an individual investigation contract guarantee or a substitute for professional liability coverage.
- Who needs it
- A private investigator license applicant preparing the Department of State submission. Match the applicant's business structure and principals to the application and accepted bond.
- Who it protects
- The accepted PI bond condition determines the protected public or client interests and claim requirements. Do not treat the $10,000 security amount as money available for every complaint without satisfying those conditions.
Your bond option
This is the option on record for this bond.
- Bond optionPurchase Now (opens in a new tab)Continue to our secure checkout partner, Propeller (opens in a new tab).
The bond amount describes the limit of the bond obligation, not the price. A listed amount does not establish what the requesting party requires. The premium is what you pay and must be confirmed for the actual option. An E&O limit, where listed, is separate errors and omissions insurance.
Sources
- New York Department of State: private investigator licensing (opens in a new tab)Checked October 18, 2026
- New York Department of State: PI/WGP/BEA application instructions (opens in a new tab)Checked October 18, 2026
Have these ready
- Confirm the PI applicant entity and current Department of State bond form.
- Have the department's $10,000 PI bond requirement ready when you apply.
- Assemble examination, experience and principal documentation separately.
- Check whether employing guards creates additional insurance evidence requirements.
Questions about this bond
What sum does the posted PI application list?
It lists proof of a $10,000 surety bond for PI and WGP applicants. Confirm the current PI form and accepted execution.
Should I use the packet's $500,000 amount?
That figure is listed for bail enforcement applicants, not the PI bond described here. Use the requirements for the exact license class.
Does the bond replace guard liability insurance?
No. The packet separately describes liability evidence when security guards are employed.
Does purchasing the bond allow me to begin investigating?
No. Licensing eligibility, application review and authorization remain with New York's Department of State.