Required Licensing for Crime Scene Investigators
Crime scene investigators examine the scene of a crime to determine how it may have occurred and to possibly determine who committed it. Crime scene investigators are science technicians who generally have specialized training in the collection and analysis of crime scene evidence. They are required to have two types of licenses, but not necessarily licenses related to crime scene investigation per se.
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Education
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Crime scene investigators typically have an associate degree in applied science or a closely related field. Some investigators obtain their positions by obtaining an associate degree in a field like criminology and then working as a criminal investigator for several years while gaining some of the necessary education needed. Crime scene investigators typically need to obtain 720 hours of education in crime scene processing and obtain certification from the International Association for Identification. This is not a license per se, but it is necessary to work in this field.
Driver's License
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One of the only licenses the the crime scene investigator needs to have is a valid driver's license. A driver's license is needed because crime scene investigators serve as police officers and as such need to have a valid working license. Most police departments require a valid driver's license of all police officers before they will even consider hiring an applicant. Additionally, the need to drive to the crime scene necessitates that investigators have a valid license to be in compliance with the law.
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Weapon License
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Because crime scene investigators are police officers who visit crime scenes, they often need to have a valid license to carry a weapon. The investigator may serve in other capacities that involve apprehending criminals and, therefore, having a weapon on hand is necessary to ensure the safety of the investigator and other members of the investigation team.
Training
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In addition to the education obtained through a formal degree program and through the International Association for Identification, the crime scene investigator needs to be familiar with other aspects of police work. This is typically obtained by completing training at the police academy and only after completing a rigorous hiring process. Some investigators even work as police officers before moving on to become detectives and gaining specialized training in the field of crime scene investigation.
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References
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