Things You'll Need:
- Driver's license
- Working capital for equipment
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Step 1
Almost every state has a licensing board that governs fraud investigators. You will need to locate the private investigation licensing board for your state. See Resources below for assistance in finding the agency.
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Step 2
Once you have found the licensing agency, you will need to attend a pre-licensing course (usually 32 hours of instruction) that meets your state requirements. Some states have programs that are offered on-line, and some require classroom visits.
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Step 3
After taking the pre-licensing course, contact an investigation agency to set up an apprenticeship. Licensing requirements call for fraud investigators to work under licensed agents as apprentices for 12 to 24 months before they are granted a license of their own.
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Step 4
Most agencies will require you to supply your own equipment while working as an apprentice. You will need to purchase at a minimum the following items: a reliable vehicle, a GPS (global positioning system) monitor, a digital video camera and a digital audio recorder.
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Step 5
Complete your required apprenticeship and learn as much as you can about fraud investigation techniques. Once your internship is complete, you are ready to become licensed.
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Step 6
Contact the state board of fraud investigators to schedule the final licensing testing. You will need to provide your certificate of apprenticeship completion and your pre-licensing completion certificate. Once you have passed the test, your license should arrive within four to six weeks, and you are ready to start getting your own contracts with clients.
