West Virginia § 30-18-5 - 30-18-5. Eligibility requirements to be licensed to conduct security guard business.

Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 30-18-5 — 30-18-5. Eligibility requirements to be licensed to conduct security guard business., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 30-18-5. 30-18-5. Eligibility requirements to be licensed to conduct security guard business.

(a) In order to be eligible for any license to conduct security guard business, an applicant shall:

(1) Be at least 18 years of age;

(2) Be a citizen of the United States or an alien who is legally residing within the United States;

(3) Not have had any previous license to conduct security guard business or to conduct the private investigation business revoked or any application for any such licenses or registrations denied by the appropriate governmental authority in this or any other state or territory;

(4) Not have been declared incompetent by reason of mental defect or disease by any court of competent jurisdiction unless said court has subsequently determined that the applicant’s competency has been restored;

(5) Not suffer from habitual drunkenness or from narcotics addiction or dependence;

(6) Have had at least one year verified, full time employment conducting security guard business or conducting the private investigation business working for a licensed firm or have one year of substantially equivalent training or experience;

(7) Not have been convicted of a felony in this state or any other state or territory;

(8) Not have been convicted of any of the following:

(A) Illegally using, carrying, or possessing a pistol or other dangerous weapon;

(B) Making or possessing burglar’s instruments;

(C) Buying or receiving stolen property;

(D) Entering a building unlawfully;

(E) Aiding an inmate’s escape from prison;

(F) Possessing or distributing illicit drugs; and

(9) Not have violated any provision of §30-18-8 of this code.

The provisions of this section shall not prevent the issuance of a license to any person who, subsequent to his or her conviction, shall have received an executive pardon therefor, removing this disability.

Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 30-18-5

What does West Virginia Code § 30-18-5 cover?

Section 30-18-5 ("30-18-5. Eligibility requirements to be licensed to conduct security guard business.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite West Virginia § 30-18-5?

A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 30-18-5" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of West Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.

How does West Virginia § 30-18-5 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.