Iowa PI, Security Agency & Bail Enforcement Bond Overview
- Purpose: To hold security agencies liable for upholding state laws and regulations
- Who Needs It: Owners of private investigation agencies, security agencies and bail enforcement agencies in Iowa
- Regulating Body: The Iowa Department of Public Safety
- Bond Amount: $5,000 for one license; $10,000 for 2+ licenses
- Premium Price: $100 for one year
What Is an Iowa Private Investigation Agency Bond?
Under Iowa Code Chapter 80A.10, individuals must file a $5,000 surety bond when applying for any of the following licenses:
- Private security business license
- Private investigation business license
- Bail enforcement business license
Each business type uses the same bond form. However, if you’re applying for multiple licenses, you’ll need a $10,000 bond instead.
The Iowa PI, private security and bail enforcement agency bond holds you responsible for following all applicable laws and ordinances.
How Much Do PI and Security Agency Bonds Cost in Iowa?
Iowa PI, security agency or bail enforcement bonds cost $100 for one year of coverage. The $5,000 and $10,000 bonds cost the same amount.
You can also save 25% by selecting a two- or three-year term. Buy your bond in minutes below.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does an Iowa Private Security Agency Bond Work?
When you file this bond, you become the “principal” in the three-party bond contract.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| 1) Principal | The agency owner filing the bond |
| 2) Obligee | The Iowa Department of Public Safety |
| 3) Surety | The issuing surety provider |
As the principal, you agree to operate your agency according to all applicable laws and ordinances.
If you or your employees fail to do so, the surety will pay valid claims up to the full bond amount, which you must reimburse.
How Do I Get a Private Investigation or Security Agency Bond in Iowa?
You can buy your Iowa private investigative agency or security agency bond online 24/7. Simply follow these steps:
- Choose your bond amount.
- Provide your name, address and license type.
- Complete the online payment.
We’ll email your official Iowa surety bond instantly. You’ll be prompted to file it with your license application to the Program Services Bureau.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, there is no credit requirement for this bond. All applicants are automatically approved at the $100 rate.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
You must maintain this bond for the duration of your license term. We’ll send out renewal reminders so you don’t have to worry about keeping track of your bond term. Just pay the invoice when prompted to extend your bond for another 1–3 years.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
The most common change requests are to update your name or address to match your license records. If you bought your bond from us, email [email protected] to explain the needed change.
Only surety providers can alter existing bond forms. Review this FAQ article to help streamline the process.
How to Get a PI or Security Agency License in Iowa
The Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Program Services Bureau oversees private investigation, private security, and bail enforcement agency licensing. Follow these steps to apply for a license:
- Register your business entity with the state.
- Get liability insurance and surety bond.
- Create an account and apply through the licensing portal.
- Upload proof of liability insurance and surety bond, a headshot photo, company information, criminal history questions, and all other supporting materials.
- Pay the license fees.
- Submit fingerprints.
Once the Bureau approves your application, they’ll issue your official license and ID card via email. Review the links below for more information about the licensing process.
