How to Become a Licensed Private Detective in New York
Given the stereotype of private investigators as hard-working men and women who constantly get embroiled in intrigues and shoot-outs, it's no wonder that so many people want to get licensed. The process of licensing tends to separate the chaff from the wheat. Particularly in New York.
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Instructions
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Get experience. In order to be licensed in the state of New York as a private investigator, a person must be at least 25 years old and have at least three years of investigative experience. Often this is why police officers, both civilian and military, become private detectives.
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Take and pass the state private investigator examination. After passing this particular test, an individual can wait up to two years to apply for a private detective's license, but after that time, the test will need to be retaken.
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Apply for a private detective's license. There are fees associated with the application: $400 for an individual license, or $500 for a corporate or business license. These fees are nonrefundable.
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Receive your private detective's license. At this point you are considered to be a licensed private detective in the state of New York. The license must be renewed in two years.
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Open a business or attach yourself to an existing business. Law firms, both public and private, employ many investigators. Private detectives who own their own business may choose to investigate whatever their clients need, whether it's finding missing people or examining witness credibility in a legal matter.
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Tips & Warnings
Different states have different requirements for private detectives. A license in one state might not be valid in another, so it's best to research before crossing state lines.
