The level of proof required to obtain a search warrant is

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Probable cause is the standard you need to obtain a search warrant. It means there must be reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been, is being, or will be committed and that evidence or contraband connected to that crime is likely to be found at the place to be searched. This standard is based on the totality of the circumstances and is more than a mere hunch but less than absolute certainty. It’s designed to balance the government’s interest in gathering evidence with individuals’ privacy rights.

Reasonable suspicion is a lower bar used to justify brief detentions or stop-and-frisks, not warrants. Preponderance of the evidence is the civil standard—more likely than not—that applies in civil cases. Beyond a reasonable doubt is the high standard required to convict someone in a criminal trial. So for triggering a search warrant, probable cause is the appropriate standard.