How to Become a Private Investigator in San Antonio, Texas

Private investigators use surveillance techniques to gather evidence.

Private investigators provide important investigative services to individuals, companies and attorneys. They are often sought out because of their ability to use unconventional or covert methods for gaining information. They also use traditional investigative techniques to accomplish their goals. Becoming a private investigator in San Antonio requires that you abide by the laws of the state of Texas for private investigator licensing. Private investigators must be able to prove their qualifications and exhibit their sense of responsibility to work in this field.

Instructions

1. Obtain private investigator training. There is no formal education requirement to become a private investigator, but many investigators do start their careers obtaining the proper level of education, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This usually comes in the form of some post-secondary training through a community college, four-year college or private investigator training school. These schools will teach you the basic techniques and theories of private investigation. San Antonio offers opportunities for fledgling investigators to gain initial and continuing education. Schools include Daniel D. Phillips Continuing Education, Alamo Area Forensic Labs, the P. I. Institute of Education, South Texas Investigations, Lindow & Treat, L.L.P., Security Management International, Southwest Institute of Management Development & Training, Inc., Neff & Neff Associates and Detective & Security San Antonio Academy.

2. Submit an application to the Texas Department of Public Safety for a private investigator's license. To qualify for a license in Texas, you must be at least 18 years old and have a clean criminal record. Your background should reflect a history of mental competence and you must not be required to register as a sex offender in any state. Texas law requires that you submit your fingerprints for a background check to both the state and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

3. Gain experience working for a private investigative firm or agency. This is how most investigators get the majority of their training, since there is no formal education requirement for the industry, according to the BLS. Working for an investigation agency will allow you the opportunity to shadow an experienced investigator and learn the ins and outs of the business. San Antonio private investigators include Kelmar & Associates, International Counterintelligence Services, Inc., Alfaro & Johns Investigations, Action Investigators, Argus Investigations LLC and San Antonio Investigations & Security.

4. Obtain liability insurance in accordance with Texas state law. This is only necessary if you plan on starting your insurance company or working on your own as a sole proprietor. You will need to carry a minimum of $200,000 in general liability coverage, as of 2010.

References

• State of Texas: Occupation Code
• International Counterintelligence Services, Inc.: Texas Private Investigator
• Texas Association of Licensed Investigators: Licensing Requirements
• Texas Department of Public Safety: FAQs
• Bureau of Labor Statitics: Private Detectives and Investigators
• Texas Department of Public Safety: Active Private Investigator Continuing Education Schools