How To Obtain A Private Investigator License

Private investigators are in demand; a career in private investigation is both rewarding and exciting. Private investigators and private detectives are well trained in techniques involving surveillance, background checks, gathering information and collecting evidence.

The requirements for obtaining a private investigation license vary from state to state. In most states there are no academic requirements, however, a two-year associates degree or a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice related course work is recommended. For example, the field of corporate investigation requires a bachelor’s degree and some degree of formal business training. Most states do require private investigators and detectives be licensed. Usually a candidate should be at least 18 years of age with no felony convictions. As an example, the California Department of Consumer Affairs requires private investigators have a combination of education in justice, criminal law or political science and investigation related work experience equal to three years or six thousand hours. The candidate must also pass a criminal history background check by the FBI and California Department of Justice and receive a sufficient score on a written examination covering regulations and laws.

Private investigators frequently work with law firms providing assistance in personal injury cases, marital infidelity, child custody and civil liability. Insurance companies frequently hire private investigators in cases involving workers compensation claims, arson, fraud and suspicious claims. Investigators conduct background checks and pre-employment verification for large corporations and small businesses alike. The life of a private investigator is quite different from the stereotypical detective seen on television and in the cinemas. Private investigators spend a great deal of time making telephones calls, interviewing witnesses, verifying facts and gathering data.

Many investigators receive additional certification from a professional organization in order to gain competency in a particular field such as legal investigation, financial investigation and corporate investigation.