Requirements for Getting a Private Investigator License
The licensing requirements for a private investigator vary state by state and by investigative specialty. A few states do not require licensing at all, other than a business license. In other states, such as California, there are strict licensing requirements, including minimum education restrictions and passage of a licensing exam.
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Find State Licensing Requirements
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Information can usually be found on state websites, but it can be difficult to locate. Some states have licensing departments that regulate this field. In other states, there might be a more specific department regulating private investigator licensing, such as California's Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. In other states, the state police or public safety departments handle licensing. There are websites that provide links to individual state requirements (see link in References).
Education for Private Investigators
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There are no set educational requirements for private investigator licensing. However, the majority of investigators hold bachelor's degrees. Corporate investigators often obtain degrees in business-related fields. Computer forensics investigators often have degrees in computer science. Educational programs in criminal justice or police science are also common.
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Specialties within the Field
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Different specialties within private investigation have different requirements. For example, computer forensic investigators need a private investigator license in some states, but not in others. Employers may prefer investigators with training in specific skills. For example, accounting experience is a good background for fraud investigators. Employers of legal investigators might prefer candidates with a background in law.
Private Investigator Certification
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Certification is usually voluntary, but taking that extra step might show potential clients and employers a higher degree of professionalism. Several organizations offer certification. The National Association of Legal Investigators provides a nationally recognized certification program primarily for criminal defense investigators. ASIS International (formerly the American Society for Industrial Security) provides certification for security professionals who are involved with investigation. There are many on-line training programs that offer certification as well.
Other Qualifications for Private Investigators
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Aside from licensing and certification, private investigators need to be assertive and quick-thinking. These individuals must possess good interrogation and interview skills. Often, private investigators enter the profession from other fields, such as law enforcement, finance, law or the military and bring their skills and expertise from that field into an investigative specialty.
Additional Requirements and Considerations
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Private investigators who carry concealed weapons must meet additional state requirements and obtain a permit. Information can be found on state websites. Additionally, investigators who work across state lines will need to be licensed in those states.
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