how to get a private investigator license course

by Elisha Lindgren 8 min read

The ideal education for a private investigator candidate is an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a field such as criminal justice, psychology or related field. These degrees will give you the best educational background for the career. These degrees are worthwhile because they offer coursework such as:

Full Answer

What qualifications do you need to be a private investigator?

You typically need training in the following:

  • Local, state and national laws regarding a private investigator’s legal role
  • Physical and health requirements
  • Communication devices
  • Desk investigations
  • Surveillance methods
  • Evidence documentation
  • Private investigator’s mindset

How can I get into being a private investigator?

  • Conducting interviews and obtaining witness statements from people to gather information.
  • Investigate consumer fraud, fraudulent cashier’s checks and online dating profiles.
  • Gather evidence to assist in a criminal defense for an innocent person.
  • Verify employment applications and provided data for background checks.

More items...

What to expect when hiring a private investigator?

Of course, you should also have an opportunity to ask questions, such as:

  • Is your investigative agency properly licensed? ...
  • Do you specialize in specific types of investigative services or have experts in different areas (i.e., litigation support, background checks, corporate investigations)? ...
  • Do you guarantee discreet, confidential results?

More items...

How to become a licensed private investigator?

  • You must be 19 or older.
  • Have a clean criminal record.
  • Be a Canadian citizen.
  • Be English language proficient.
  • Take government PI license course.
  • Pass government test.
  • Get a passport photo.
  • Submit documents online/ mail.
  • Get a guarantor.
  • Pay fee.

How much does PI training cost?

Community and State Colleges. Programs offered through community colleges usually cost between $1,000-$1,500 for 30 course hours leading to a certificate.

What education is required to be a private investigator?

High school diploma or equivalentPrivate investigator / Entry level education

How do you get a private investigator's license in Ontario?

Ontario Private Investigator License RequirementsYou must be 19 or older.Have a clean criminal record.Be a Canadian citizen.Be English language proficient.Take government PI license course.Pass government test.Get a passport photo.Submit documents online/ mail.More items...

How long does it take to become a private investigator in Florida?

How Do I Become a Private Investigator in Florida? First, you'll need to take a 40-hour Florida Private Investigator “CC” Intern Training Course that meets the State of Florida's Division of Licensing requirements.

Is being a PI worth it?

Earning Potential. As a self-employed Private Investigator, you have the freedom to work as much or as little as you want, and you can also set your rates. If you choose to work for an investigative firm, you may earn a little less, but you may not have to cover as many job-related expenses as a self-employed PI.

Do private investigators need a license?

PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS WILL need to obtain a licence from the Private Security Authority (PSA), under new rules announced by the Department of Justice.

How long does it take to become a private investigator in Ontario?

In Ontario, it is necessary to take a 50-hour training course, which can be an online private investigator training course or an in-class private eye training course.

How much does a PI make in Ontario?

The average salary for a private investigator is $24.27 per hour in Ontario.

How long does it take to get a PI license Ontario?

It can take up to 30 business days for a correctly completed mail-in application to be processed and approved. After your application is approved, your new licence card will arrive by mail within eight weeks.

How much does it cost to get a PI license in Florida?

Also, enclose a check or money order payable to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for $154 (license fee of $112 and fingerprint processing fee of $42). Submit all of this to the Division of Licensing address listed above.

How much does it cost to become a PI in Florida?

Forms Needed for a Private Detective License in Florida Fees Required: There is a $50 application fee, $42 fingerprint processing fee and $75 license fee. The Florida private investigator exam fee is $100.

What disqualifies you from being a private investigator?

Do not have three years of investigative experience. Are not a citizen or legal resident who is authorized to seek employment in the United States. Have ever been convicted of a felony, whether or not your conviction was subsequently set aside and your Civil Rights were restored.

What Is A Licensed Private Investigator?

A licensed private investigator is sometimes referred to as a P.I., gumshoe, sleuth and sometimes even a spy. In general, the terms generally refer...

The Private Investigator’S Licensing Handbook: How to Get A Private Investigator License in Any State

Think you might be interested in pursuing a career as a private investigator? Browse through the pages of this eBook to learn about the services pr...

Private Investigator Job Functions

In many cases, spouses hire professional investigators to obtain proof of adultery or other illegal conduct to establish grounds for a divorce. In...

Services, Training, and Reference Material

1. View a list of potential services provided 2. Private Investigator training courses for increasing your knowledge and skills 3. List of Private...

What is the training required for a private investigator?

For this reason, training for private investigators needs to be diverse enough to train candidates for a multitude of situations.

What are the areas covered in the state regulated examination?

Some of the areas that will be covered include: State Regulations. National Regulations. Operations in Court.

Do you have to complete continuing education to renew your license?

In a lot of states, you will be required to complete continuing education of some kind in order to renew your license. This education can be a great way to stay up-to-date with the state’s laws and regulations.

What is private investigator training?

Private Investigator training is offered by universities, colleges, schools, and investigation companies.

How long does it take to become a private investigator in Nevada?

This state-approved online program can be completed by most students within 10 weeks.

What is the best resource for an overview of the private investigator profession?

The best resource for an overview of the private investigator profession is the U.S. Department of Labor – Occupational Outlook Handbook. The handbook describes the nature of private investigation work, working conditions, earning potential, qualifications, and other significant points for private investigators.

What is Global School of Investigation?

Global School of Investigation. The Global School of Investigation offers online education and distance learning programs for private investigation studies.

How to become a licensed investigator?

Registration Process: You will complete and submit your license to the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Include a copy of your insurance policy or bond, the required five character references, and a copy of your certificate of Incorporation. When your application is approved , you will become a licensed professional investigator.

How many years of experience do you need to be a licensed investigator in Michigan?

This requirement can be waived if you have at least three years of experience as a licensed investigator in another state, an investigator employed by a government agency, worked as an in-house investigator for a business, or were employed as an investigative reporter.

What is a private investigator in Michigan?

In Michigan, private investigators are known as professional investigators, and must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). LARA maintains a set of qualifications necessary for licensure, including educational and experience requirements.

How old do you have to be to be a professional investigator in Michigan?

Age: Professional investigators in Michigan must be 25 years of age or older. Provisions: You must be a US citizen and have earned at least a high school degree or equivalent. Applicants must also earn a Certificate of Corporation and be able to provide five character references from Michigan citizens who have known you for five years or more ...

What is a professional investigator?

A professional investigator can be hired by an individual, a business, or even the government to track down vital information and people. If you choose to work as a private investigator, you may investigate fraud, locate missing persons or fugitives, and investigate infidelity. In Michigan, private investigators are known as professional ...

How much does it cost to renew a professional investigator license?

Maintenance: You will be notified when your license is set to expire and will be required to pay a $350 renewal fee.

What are the disqualifications for investigative work?

Disqualifications: You will be disqualified from investigative work if you have committed a felony or misdemeanor involving impersonating a government official, assault, illegal possession or use of a firearm, fraud, selling information or evidence, controlled substances or two or more alcohol based offenses.

How many years of experience do you need to get a private investigator license?

Private Investigator License. In order to qualify for a PI license, you must have three years of experience in private investigative work (equivalent of 3,000 hours), or three years in an investigative capacity as a member of a law enforcement agency or other governmental agency.

How long can a private investigator work in North Carolina?

These agreements allow currently licensed private investigators from states to come into North Carolina for a specific period of time (30 days maximum, except for Tennessee, which is 15 days) to work a case which originated in their home state.

image