WA State Private Investigator Pre-Assignment Training
Start your path toward becoming a licensed Private Investigator in Washington State with our PI Pre-Assignment Training and Exam. Our training gives you a practical introduction to the private investigation industry while preparing you to complete the required Washington State Pre-Assignment Exam.
Completed in Two Parts
The training is completed in two parts, allowing you to complete the first portion on your own schedule before meeting directly with a Washington State Certified PI Trainer.
Self-Paced Video Training
After registration and payment, you will receive access to the first portion of the course through our online video training. You can complete this section at your own pace and review the material as needed before scheduling your live session.
- Access online video training on your schedule
- Review the material as many times as you need
- Materials generally sent within 24 hours of payment
Live Zoom Training & Exam
The second portion is conducted through a live Zoom session with your instructor. We will review important material, discuss real-world investigative situations, and answer your questions about working in the private investigation industry.
At the end of the Zoom session, you will take the 50-question Washington State Pre-Assignment Exam. After completing the exam, we review the results with you, discuss additional real-world scenarios, and explain the next steps in the licensing process.
$250.00
Full self-paced video training, the live Zoom review session, the 50-question Pre-Assignment Exam, completion documentation for your DOL license application, and post-course Q&A access. Self-paced materials generally sent within 24 hours of payment.
- State-accepted certificate of completion
- Self-paced video + live Zoom exam format
- Direct access to instructor for questions
$200.00 / person
Bring 2 or more colleagues, business partners, or aspiring agency team members and Save $50 each on tuition!
- Perfect for agencies onboarding new PIs
- Customized scheduling for group availability
- Collaborative group Q&A discussions
Licensing Path & Agency Requirements
This training and exam are intended for individuals seeking to become licensed as a Private Investigator under an existing licensed PI agency in Washington State.
If your goal is to open and operate your own private investigation agency, Washington State has a separate agency licensing process. Many students still complete our training first to strengthen their understanding of WA requirements and prepare for the state licensing process.
Course Breakdown & Learning Modules
The pre-assignment training material is structured into four focused, digestible segments covered across your self-paced video training and the live Zoom review.
PI Foundations & Business Setup
Introduction to the private investigation industry in Washington. Setting up your business structure (sole proprietor, LLC), securing required insurance/surety bonds, and establishing professional client agreements.
Rules, Regulations & RCW 18.165
Comprehensive review of Washington State laws regulating Private Investigators. Understanding license requirements, fire-arm restrictions, trespass statutes, privacy boundaries, and Department of Licensing compliance.
Investigation & Surveillance Tactics
Field techniques for stationary and mobile surveillance. Using video equipment, taking notes, creating detailed investigation logs, skip tracing, public records research, and process serving fundamentals.
Legal Risk & Court Reporting
How to write clear, objective investigation reports that hold up in court. Understanding chain of custody for evidence, testifying as a witness, and mitigating civil or criminal liability.
What's Included & How You Attend
Complete Part 1 online at your own pace after your materials are sent (generally within 24 hours of payment). Review as often as needed.
Part 2 is a live Zoom review with your instructor, ending with the 50-question Washington State Pre-Assignment Exam and a results walkthrough.
After the exam we review results, discuss real-world scenarios, and walk through the next steps in the Washington State licensing process.
Ready to Get Started?
Register for the Washington State Private Investigator Pre-Assignment Training and begin your training on your schedule. Once payment is received, your self-paced training materials will generally be sent within 24 hours.