Private Investigator Laws for the State of Maine

Maine requires private investigators to be licensed.

Private investigators in Maine are licensed by the Maine Department of Public Safety. The Maine State Police has oversight of private investigators and publishes "State of Maine Laws Relating to Private Investigators and Investigative Assistants."

Private Investigator's License Qualifications

A private investigator needs a camera for investigative work.

A person applying to obtain a private investigator's license should be 18 or older and be a citizen or alien resident of the United States. He must be a high school graduate or have a GED. Candidates will be investigated and must be considered of good moral character.

Application

The applicant tenders an application with name, address, birth information and physical description. She gives the chief of police authority to check for a criminal record. The applicant must supply more information, including experience, and pass an examination. She then applies to the commissioner for application.

Bonding Requirement, Fees and Firearms

A licensed private investigator in Maine must post a $10,000 bond. The original biennial license fee is $400; $350 is required when the license is issued. When the license expires, it must be renewed within 60 days to continue. A private investigator may carry a firearm when he performs a private investigator's duties.

References

• Maine State Police: Firearm Permits, Contract Security, Private Investigators and Investigative Assistants