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Attention

  • To access Lotus, please go to https://lotus.dcjs.virginia.gov and follow the instructions at the top of the page.
  • Visit our Lotus Resources page for more information and resources, including FAQs and the Lotus Self-Service Guide.
  • We understand there are currently issues with application renewals and training schools. These bugs have been submitted to our vendor and are being worked. Thank you for your patience.
  • Because your work is vital to public safety in Virginia, DCJS has authorized numerous credential extensions.
    • Credentials with an expiration date of December 31, 2024, January 31, 2025, or February 28, 2025, were extended to March 31, 2025.
    • Only credentials with paid/pending renewal applications have been given an extension to late May 2025.
    • Please log in to your Lotus account to confirm your expiration date(s) and any outstanding requirements.

Private Security

Courses

Below are links to the outlines for the training courses required by DCJS. Click on a course name to see the training outline. For online training information, click here.

Codes & Regulations

Private Security Services

Private Security Services reviews and processes all applications for registration, certification and licensure for Individuals, Businesses, and Training Schools involved in providing security services. Our dedicated staff is also responsible for providing technical assistance to our constituents and is granted statutory authority to proceed with enforcement action against regulants in an effort to protect the public from unlicensed and unethical business practices.

For in-depth information on each program within Private Security Services, 

please click the box below that most pertains to you.

Individual
Instructor
Business
Compliance Agent
Training Schools
 

Private Security Codes and Regulations:

Private Security Services Code - 9.1-138 - 9.1-150
Regulations Related to Private Security Businesses 6VAC20-172
Regulations Related to Private Security Services Training Schools 6VAC20-173
Regulations Related to Private Security Services Registered Personnel 6VAC20-174

 

Division of Licensure and Regulatory Services

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, Division of Licensure and Regulatory Services involves the oversight and enforcement of five regulatory programs: Private Security Services, Bail Bondsmen, Bail Enforcement Agents, Special Conservators of the Peace, and Tow Truck Drivers. The Division is dedicated to providing excellent customer service to our constituents and professionals serving the private side of public safety.
 

Attention: Fingerprint Submittal Reminder

  • As a reminder, an application and applicable fees must be submitted online prior to scheduling a fingerprint appointment. All fingerprints received prior to submitting an application and fees will not be accepted, and you will be required to submit new fingerprints when or after an application is submitted. Also, all criminal history records will be destroyed if received without an application and fees. 

Attention: Criminal History Background Checks

  • DCJS is currently experiencing longer-than-normal times for criminal history background checks to be processed due to increased demand on the agency that fulfills the background checks, the Virginia State Police.
  • The processing time from fingerprint submission (through Fieldprint) until DCJS receives the results can take up to 45 business days. Please note that business days include only Monday through Friday and exclude holidays.
  • DCJS will only contact the Virginia State Police when a background check submission has reached the 45th business day.

What this means for you:  

  • If you are an initial applicant, please allow 45 business days before contacting DCJS to follow up about your background check.
  • If you are an existing regulant, please start your renewal process as close as possible to 90 days prior to your expiration date to ensure that your criminal history is processed in a timely manner.
  • DCJS cannot expedite the background check process as it is dependent on external entities, nor can it provide applicants extensions due to processing delays. 

 

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