How to become Private Investigator in Delaware?

In order to work as a private investigator in Delaware, you need to possess a license issued by Delaware State Police. You must be of good moral character. You must undergo a thorough background check which scrutinizes your criminal history. If you are found guilty, you will not be eligible to obtain a license from Delaware State Police.

Your next step is to fill an application form requesting for a private investigator license. Along with this, you need to complete a Delaware manager application form. Both the application forms must be duly filled, signed and notarized. The application requires the applicant to provide his name and any applicable aliases, home address, phone number, location and date of birth and physical description. You must attach $5000 surety bond and $100000 insurance liability coverage document (for an individual) and $10000 surety bond and $100000 insurance liability coverage (for corporate) issued in your favor by a state certified insurance company.

A Private Investigator must not be a member or employee of any Law Enforcement Organization, as defined by the Council on Police Training. At the time of processing, if demanded, a private investigator must show evidence that he is employment by a licensed private investigative agency with the private investigator application signed by employer. The identification card will bear the employer’s name. This identification card is valid only when employment exists. But, if you are seeking employment with another licensed agency, the private investigator must be re-licensed with the new employer and a new identification card will be issued as in the previous procedure. One important restriction is that a licensed private investigator will be employed by one licensed private investigative agency at a time.

To be successful private investigator in Delaware you will have to be in company of private investigators in Delaware. Hence, join an experienced private investigator in Delaware. These private investigators will be a source for customers because many people contact them for investigative services and also beneficial for you as it will show your commitment towards your profession. Here are some tips that will be helpful to you in tough times of your business.

Do follow Delaware statutes in order to be a successful private investigator in Delaware. Always keep a thorough eye on the changes in laws, rules and regulations to carry out your work more effectively and hassle-free.

Please Note: - Delaware does not have reciprocity agreements with any other states.

Contact Information: Website: http://dsp.delaware.gov/SBIinfo.shtml

Email: steve.engebretsen@state.de.us

Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Division of State Police, P.O. Box 430, Dover, Delaware, United States, 19903-0430 Phone: (302) 672-5304

Citation Statute: Delaware State Law: Title 24: 1301-1316

Website: http://delcode.delaware.gov/title24/c013/index.shtml

Fees: In-State License Holder

Individual - No Employees - Not Corporation $230

Corporation - Has Employees $345

License Holder - Individual and Corporation $345

Delaware Manager $230

Renewal Information: Renewal for an Individual Investigator is $44.00 for two years. Renewal for an out of state agency is $575.00 for two years.

How to become Private Investigator in District of Columbia (DC)?

In order to be a private investigator in dc you need to possess a license issued by Metropolitan Police Department. You must be at least 18 years of age and resident of District of Columbia (unless you specifically appoint a resident attorney or agent to maintain your office).

You must be of good moral character. You will have to undergo a thorough FBI background check. Your next step is to fill an application form requesting for a license. You will have to attach two passport size photographs; your fingerprints (contact police department or local sheriff’s office for getting fingerprinted). Also, you will have to attach a surety bond of $5000 along with the application form. The surety bond must be issued in your favor by a state certified insurance company.

After becoming a private investigator (after getting your license), as per gun laws of district, you cannot carry any dangerous or concealed weapon with you. To do so, you will have to fulfill another certain requirements for the same. Contact Police department for this purpose.

Do follow District of Columbia Statutes in order to be a good private investigator. Always keep watch on the changes in laws, rules and regulations therein. Lastly, join company of experienced private investigators in dc. For some more information on becoming a private investigator in DC please click here.

Contact Information: - Security Officers Management Branch, Metro Police Security Unit 2000 14th Street. NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 671-0500

District of Columbia Statutes: Website: http://www.whpgs.org/f.htm

(Please roll down to District of Columbia)

How to become Private Investigator in Connecticut?

Connecticut won’t allow you to work as a private investigator if you do not possess license issued by Department of Public Safety, Connecticut. The basic requirement to become a private investigator in Connecticut is that you must be at least 25 years of age and of good moral character. You will have to undergo a thorough background criminal check.

You must have at least five years of practical experience in private investigation field. Also, you must have completed your education in political science or a criminal degree. Your next step is to fill an application form and request for a license from the Department of Public Safety. The application is available for download here. The form must be duly filled, signed and notarized. Do not forget to attach your five year experience certificate to the application form. The state of Connecticut has two types of licenses. It’s up to your choice of profession.

To be successful private investigator in Connecticut you will have to be in company of private investigators in Connecticut. Hence, join an experienced private investigator in Connecticut. These private investigators will be a source for customers because many people contact them for investigative services and also beneficial for you as it will show your commitment towards your profession. Also, be in company of Connecticut Private Investigator’s Association. Here are some tips that will be helpful to you in tough times of your business.

Do follow Connecticut statutes in order to be a successful private investigator in Connecticut. Always keep a bird’s eye on the changes in laws, rules and regulations to carry out your work more effectively and hassle-free.

Please Note: - The state of Connecticut does not have reciprocity with any other state.

Fees: The license fee for an individual private investigator shall be $1450.00 for the initial 2-year license and $625.00 for 2-year renewal.

The license for a corporation, association or partnership shall $1750.00 for the initial 2-year license and $1000.00 for 2-year renewal. For more information please click here.

Renewal Information: A private security company license is issued for a period of 2 years. Ninety (90) days prior to the expiration of a license, the Special License and Firearms Unit will mail the licensee a renewal application.

Contact Information: Website: http://www.ct.gov/dps/cwp/view.asp?a=2158&Q=294504&dpsNav=%7C

Email: dps.spec.licensing@po.state.ct.us

State of Connecticut Department of Public Safety Special Licensing and Firearms, 1111 Country Club Road, Middletown, Connecticut, United States, 06457 Phone: (860) 685-8290

Associations: Connecticut Association of Licensed Private Investigators

Citation Statute: Connecticut Public Act # 04-192 Website: http://www.ct.gov/dps/lib/dps/special_licensing_and_firearms/public_act%2004-192.pdf

How to become private investigator in Colorado?

In order to become a private investigator in Colorado you do not have to get the license because Colorado government do put the requirement to have a license in order to work as an investigator. But in order to work you will have to study the private investigation field in Colorado. You need to undertake a thorough research of the field before you undertake this profession. You can take the help of library to study the books on conducting investigations. The books are also available at the PIstore.com or PImall.com. By studying various articles on private investigation you can get training on how to conduct business background check, find people and conduct surveillance. By going through the PPIAC website you can get information on Colorado private investigator issues, education, mentoring and conferences.

You will need to get the information on various fields of specialization in private investigation so that you can choose the field of your choice and get specialized in it. It is often thought that private investigators work only on cases related to cheating spouse or only conduct surveillance. But it is not so, there are many fields in which you can specialize in the private investigation such as legal investigations, computer forensics, skip tracing etc. you can undertake the field according to your skill and get specialized in it.

You will need to make a good research on your competitors. You will need to find the rates which they offer to their clients. Then accordingly you fix your rates. Once you have established yourself as a good private investigator and a good client base you can raise your rates. But you will have to be very patient in the beginning.

Then the next step is to establish the business structure. If you do not want to work under the supervision of any private investigator then it will good for you to establish your own investigation business which should be a formal structure. You can be protected against individual liability by choosing a corporation or limited liability company. You can contact the Colorado Secretary of States office to get the answer to the questions of how to start the corporation or partnership. You can visit the office’s website or call at 303-894-2200. Then you should join the private investigator association of Colorado.

Then the next step is to start your website. Once you have studied the private investigation field, choose a specialization, joined the pi association and have fixes the rates you will have to start a website so that you can announce the starting of your business. By contacting an experienced web designer you can form a website which is professional and easy to navigate. Your website should be such that it encourages the clients to contact you.

Then you will have to market your business. You can start by forming a website, but you have to form a good marketing plan according to your specialization and your target customers. But be sure that your plans should not yield you a lot of money. Take the advantage of cheap options. By following all these steps you will be able to start a good profession which will be continue successfully in future.

In order to get more information on the state laws you can click here.

Associations: Professional Private Investigators Association of Colorado

How to become private investigator in Colorado?

In order to become a private investigator in Colorado you do not have to get the license because Colorado government do put the requirement to have a license in order to work as an investigator. But in order to work you will have to study the private investigation field in Colorado. You need to undertake a thorough research of the field before you undertake this profession. You can take the help of library to study the books on conducting investigations. The books are also available at the PIstore.com or PImall.com. By studying various articles on private investigation you can get training on how to conduct business background check, find people and conduct surveillance. By going through the PPIAC website you can get information on Colorado private investigator issues, education, mentoring and conferences. You will need to get the information on various fields of specialization in private investigation so that you can choose the field of your choice and get specialized in it. It is often thought that private investigators work only on cases related to cheating spouse or only conduct surveillance. But it is not so, there are many fields in which you can specialize in the private investigation such as legal investigations, computer forensics, skip tracing etc. you can undertake the field according to your skill and get specialized in it. You will need to make a good research on your competitors. You will need to find the rates which they offer to their clients. Then accordingly you fix your rates. Once you have established yourself as a good private investigator and a good client base you can raise your rates. But you will have to be very patient in the beginning. Then the next step is to establish the business structure. If you do not want to work under the supervision of any private investigator then it will good for you to establish your own investigation business which should be a formal structure. You can be protected against individual liability by choosing a corporation or limited liability company. You can contact the Colorado Secretary of States office to get the answer to the questions of how to start the corporation or partnership. You can visit the office’s website or call at 303-894-2200. Then you should join the private investigator association of Colorado. Then the next step is to start your website. Once you have studied the private investigation field, choose a specialization, joined the pi association and have fixes the rates you will have to start a website so that you can announce the starting of your business. By contacting an experienced web designer you can form a website which is professional and easy to navigate. Your website should be such that it encourages the clients to contact you. Then you will have to market your business. You can start by forming a website, but you have to form a good marketing plan according to your specialization and your target customers. But be sure that your plans should not yield you a lot of money. Take the advantage of cheap options. By following all these steps you will be able to start a good profession which will be continue successfully in future. In order to get more information on the state laws you can click here. Associations: Professional Private Investigators Association of Colorado

How to become private investigator in Maine?

Maine is a state which requires license to work as a private investigator. If you want to take private investigation as a profession you will have to get the license from the Department of Public Safety. You will have to meet the basic requirement such as you must be 18 years of age and you must be a citizen of United States. You must be of good moral character. You will be investigated for your criminal record. You must not have any criminal record since past 5 years. You must be a graduate from any state accredited university or have completed GED. You must be employed for a minimum of 1700hours as an investigative assistant or must be employed as a member of investigative services of united states for minimum one year or must be employed for minimum one year as a law enforcement officer of the state or you must be possessing a minimum of 6 years of combination of work experience including at least two years in non clerical occupation and educational experience consisting of sixty academic credits of post secondary education or an associate degree in criminal investigation.

Then you will have to fill the application form. You will have to provide all the necessary information in it. You will have to provide your full name, the address of your residence since last five years, your height, weight, color of your eyes. You will have to answer all the questions relating to your criminal background and drug usage. Attach all the necessary documents.

You then have to pass an examination conducted by commissioner to get your license hassle free. This examination deals with subjects pertaining to private investigations. While giving this examination, do be familiar with Maine statutes and rules regarding private investigations.

The total fees for original biennial license is $400, out of which $50 must be submitted with the application and $350 must be submitted upon when you are issued the license. The fee for an investigative assistant’s license is $600, out of which $200 must be submitted with the application and $400 must be submitted when you are issued the license. The fee for a 4-year renewal is $400, which is refundable upon denial of renewal.

Expiration: If a previously issued license has expired and not been renewed within a period of 60 days, the application shall be considered the original application and the same fees and all requirements of an original application shall apply.

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.maine.gov/dps/msp/licenses/weapons_permits.html
Email: Bill.Gomane@maine.gov
Weapons Permits & Professional Licensing, State House Station 164, Augusta, Maine, United States, 04333
Phone: (207) 624-7210
Fax: (207) 287-3424

Associations:
Maine Private Investigators Association

Citation Statute:
Title 32, Ch. 8901-8921
Website: http://janus.state.me.us/legis/statutes/32/title32ch89sec0.html

How to become a Private Investigator in South Dakota?

Working as a private investigator in South Dakota does not require a license as a private investigator, although a private investigator in South Dakota is regulated by local jurisdictions. Hence, to become a private investigator in South Dakota, it's reasonable to define the type of investigations to specialize in, understand state statutes, laws and regulations that affect private investigators, purchase any necessary equipment and carry on the business. Some examples of investigative specializations in private investigators for South Dakota are workers compensation, personal injury defense, theft and pet detection, civil litigation, background investigations, etc.

First of all, decide which specialization best suits your background i.e. in which specialization will be able to work with more interest. Understand South Dakota Rules, laws and regulations that might affect private investigators.

To be successful private investigator in South Dakota you will have to be in company of private investigators in South Dakota. Hence, join an experienced private investigator in South Dakota. These private investigators will be a source for customers because many people contact them for investigative services and also beneficial for you as it will show your commitment towards your profession.

Start your own business either by joining experienced private investigators or your own private investigator agency. You will have to request for a business license for regulation your own private investigator agency. This license is issued by department of Revenue. For any information call 1-800-829-9188. Purchase your equipments as necessary. The next step is then to market your business by advertising. Do create a website and blogs so that people may come to know of your profession. You can also follow other marketing ideas such as business cards, memberships in private investigator associations. Enroll your profession through online registration in private investigator sites such as Einvestigator.com and PImall.com. Here are some tips that will be helpful to you in tough times of your business.

Do follow South Dakota statutes in order to be a successful private investigator in South Dakota. Always keep a bird’s eye on the changes in laws, rules and regulations to carry out your work more effectively.

Contact Information:
Reference Website: http://www.sd.gov/
Department Website: http://www.state.sd.us/drr2/revenue.html
David West, Interim Secretary of Revenue & Regulation,
445 East Capitol Avenue, Pierre,
SD 57501
Phone: 605-773-5511

Statutes:
South Dakota Statutes

How to become private investigator in Pennsylvania?

If you want to start as a private investigator in Pennsylvania then you will have to get the license from the clerk of courts because Pennsylvania government does not allow anyone to work as a private investigator without the license. In order to get the license you will have to meet the basic requirements such as you must be at least 25 years of age. You must be citizen of unites states. You must be a member of the U.S. Government investigative service or a Sheriff or a member of the Pennsylvania State Police or regularly employed as a detective or as a member of a city police department of a rank or grade higher than that of patrolman for a period of not less than three (3) years. You must not be convicted of any criminal activity within any jurisdiction. You must be of good moral character. You have to go through a background check and get your fingerprints done.

Then you will have to fill the application form. You will have to fill the application form completely and correctly. Fill all the necessary information requested by the clerk of courts. Properly provide your name, age, address, citizenship status, name and address of the office where you are going to use the license. You will have to attach all the necessary documents along with the application form. You will have to submit two recent passport size photographs along with the application. Your photos can be taken at the local drug stores, mailing centre or local post office

You will also have to submit a copy of surety bond of $10000. You will have to get the insurance from your local insurance agent. You will have to pay a fee of $218 along with the application. You will have to get the cashier’s check or money order to pay the fee. You will also have to attach two letters showing the experience of 3 years along with the application. You will also have to attach two set of fingerprints along with the application. You will have to get the fingerprints at the local law enforcement agency. You will have to fix the appointment depending upon the agency you use. You will have to send a set of fingerprints plus a check or money order in the amount of $17.50 to Pennsylvania State Police Department Headquarters, Research and Investigation Division 1800, Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110. Then the police department will take you background check and will send the result to the court when it is available.

You will also have to attach 5 letters of reference from the people who know you since last five years. The letters should explain your character, traits and abilities. Fill the application form correctly and with all the information. Attach all the documents and contact the court. Then you will have to attend the license hearing which will be arranged by the court administrator after they receive your background check results and review your application packet. At the time of hearing the judge will review your application packet and your documents. After the hearing you will receive your license certificate and identification card at the end of hearing you will officially become a private investigator if the judge thinks so.

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.dauphincounty.org/publicly-elected-officials/clerk-of-courts/pi-license-application-process/
8002 Bretz Drive, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States, 17112-9748
Phone: (717)346-4087

Citation Statute:
Pennsylvania Statutes
Title 22: Detectives
Private Detective Act of 1953
Website: http://www.pali.org/docs/Pennsylvania_Private_Detective_Act_of_1953.pdf

How to become private investigator in Kansas?

If you want to become a private investigator in Kansas you will have to get the required license from Kansas Bureau of Investigation. To get the license you will have to fulfill the basic requirement. You must be at least 21 years of age. You must be citizen of United States. You must be of good moral character and must not be convicted of any crime. You will have to undergo a thorough background check. You must be a graduate from a high school or GED certificate holder. You must have a surety bond of $100,000 or general liability insurance providing $100,000 of coverage for bodily injury or property damage caused by negligence and errors or omissions, or will have to deposit $100,000 with the State Treasurer. You must have passed an open book test private detective licensing act.

Then you will have to fill the application form to get the license. You can either download the form from KBI website or you can get the form from Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Attn: Private Detective Licensing, 1620 Tyler, Topeka, KS 66612 by mailing a price of $15. You must complete the form correctly. You must include all the necessary information in the form. Make sure that the information provided in the form is correct. Attach all the required documents to the form. The documents to be attached are statement of good character from 5 citizens with whom you are in contact with since 5 years and are not relatives, two colored photographs taken 30 days before the application, two fingerprint cards, proof of surety bond, current driving license, and verification of the education. Make sure that all the documents are correct. You will also have to pay a fee of $250 along with the application. If you want to get a firearm permit then you will have to provide a firearm training certificate along with application.

After getting the license it will be valid for two years. Hence be sure to renew the license every two years. The renewal fees are $175. The bureau asks to complete 8 hours of continuing education before the renewal of license. After getting the license you can work as a private investigator in Kansas.

Contact Information:
Website: https://www.accesskansas.org/kbi/pi_verify/helpfulhints.html#Wholicense
Email: Private.Investigator@kbi.state.ks.us
Kansas Bureau of Investigation Private Detective Licensing, 1620 SW Tyler St., Topeka, Kansas, United States, 66612-1837
Phone: (785) 296-4436

Citation Statute:
Kansas Statute 75-7b01 through 75-7b23
Website: https://www.accesskansas.org/ssrv-kbi-pi-verify/statutes.do

How to become private investigator in Illinois?

In order to become a private investigator in Illinois you will need to get the license from the Division of Professional Regulation. Without getting the license you will not be able to work as a private investigator. You will have to meet the basic requirements to get the license. You must be at least 21 years of age. You must be citizen of United States. You must be of good moral character and must not be convicted of any crime in any jurisdiction. You will have to go through a thorough background check and get the fingerprints. It is necessary that you have the experience of 3 years from the past 5 years in the field of investigation. You will have to pass the examination conducted by the department.

Then you will have to get the application form from the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation. You will have to complete the application correctly. All the information should be correctly filled. After the application is reviewed you will be sent a notice. Then you will have to go for the examination. You will have to fill then the application for the exam. You will have to select an exam date from the list available at Continentialtesting.net’s website. The last date to register for the exam is 6 to 7 weeks prior the exam date. Hence be sure to register before it. The exam deadlines are available with the list of exam dates.

You will have to complete the application for private investigator license at Continentialtesting.net's website and pay the fee of $500. After this the department will review the application and send the notice regarding the confirmation of test date, time and location 10 days prior to the exam. Then you will have to prepare for the exams. You will have to prepare the state laws while you can get the study material here. According to the IDPR, the following are recommended books for exam study: "Illinois Criminal Law and Procedures Handbook," "Private Detective," "Private Alarm," "Private Security and Locksmith Act and Rules," "Illinois Handbook of Government" and "Criminal Investigation.

Then on the scheduled date and time appear for the exam. The exam is of 90 minutes and includes questions. It is necessary for you to pass 70 questions. On passing the exam a notice is sent to you along with the application for license. If you do not pass the exam then a fail notice is sent along with a notice to reappear in the exam. An application for reappearing in the exam is included. Then complete the appli8cation for the license. Attach all the documents such as photograph, fingerprint card, experience certificate, a copy of liability insurance of $1,000,000. After submitting the application wait for the license. Then work as a private investigator.

You can get the online application form here

Reference website: http://www.idfpr.com/dpr/WHO/dtct.asp.

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.idfpr.com/dpr/WHO/dtct.asp

320 W. Washington, Springfield, Illinois, United States, 62786
Phone: (217) 785-0800
Fax: (217) 782-7645

Citation Statute:
Illinois Compiled Statutes
Chapter 225: Professions and Occupations
Act 447: Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, and Locksmith Act of 2004

Website: http://law.justia.com/illinois/codes/chapter24/2474.html

How to become a private investigator in Alaska?

In order to become a private investigator and Alaska you do not need to meet any specific licensing requirements. The only thing you need is a business license to operate in the local state. But the city of Fairbanks in Alaska, have some licensing requirements to be a private investigator.

To be a private investigator in Fairbanks you must be a citizen of United States of America and of good moral character. You will have to undergo a thorough background check to verify that you have never been convicted of any felony or crime of moral turpitude.

The only thing you need an application form and appear for an exam to become a private investigator in Fairbanks. The application fee is $100 which is non refundable. Also you will have to give along with the application fee, a fee of $400 as licensing fees. Along with the application form you will have to attach a surety bond of $10000 issued by a state certified insurance company. Your license has to be renewed every two years. Along with the application form, you need to attach a surety bond, a copy of your State of Alaska business license, a copy of your driver's license, current driving record and criminal background report. Here are some tips that will be helpful to you in tough times of your business.

Do follow Alaska statutes to become a good private investigator in Alaska.

Licensing Authority:
City of Fairbanks
City Clerk's Office
800 Cushman Street
Fairbanks, AK 99701-4615
phone: (907) 459-6715
fax: (907) 459-6710
Email: ddosterby@ci.fairbanks.ak.us

Reference Website: http://www.labor.state.ak.us/research/dlo/fprvdet.htm

Associations:
Alaska Investigators Association

Alaska Statues:-
Website: - http://licensing.azdps.gov/pirules.pdf

How to become a Private Investigator in Alabama?

Working as a private investigator in Alabama does not require a professional license. Mobile, Birmingham, and other cities in Alabama may require private investigators to possess a local professional license. Private investigators who own private detective agencies must possess appropriate business licenses.

There are no basic requirements as regards education for becoming a private investigator in Alabama. But, a priority demanded by detective agencies and clients prefer hiring professionals who have completed some graduation through college or degree program in criminal justice, police science or another related field.

In order to become a good private investigator in Alabama, you will need to get proper training to perform investigative work. Try to get experience with private detective agency and learn the necessary skills on the job. Investigative skills can also be obtained through jobs in law enforcement, accounting, law, insurance, finance, journalism and other fields.

Learn laws of private investigator in Alabama. You may do this by working closely with experienced private investigators. Whatever experience you may possess, still you will have to follow the laws of Alabama State in order to continue working as a private investigator in Alabama.

The next step is to approach police department you wish to work with. Do inquire whether a professional license is required there. You will then be asked by police department to submit your fingerprints. You will also have a go through a thorough background criminal and moral check.

If you do not wish to work with local police department and open your private investigator agency then, you need to obtain proper state business license which is issued by Alabama State Department of Revenue.

The more knowledge you possess, the more successful you will be. In view of this, continue your education, read books and enroll yourself in workshops by professional organizations. You may also read some other material of your own.

Do keep an eagle’s eye on the changes in laws and regulations of Alabama State.

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.alabama.gov/portal/index.jsp (Alabama state Government)
Website: http://www.ador.state.al.us/ (Department of Revenue)
Alabama State Department of Revenue,
50 North Ripley,
Montgomery,
Alabama 36132.
Contact number: 334-242-1170.

Associations: Alabama Private Investigators Association

Laws and Regulations: Alabama State Laws

How to become a private investigator in Louisiana?

The government of Louisiana allows only licensed private investigators to work in Louisiana. Hence you will have to acquire the license for your working. The license is provided by the Louisiana state board of private investigator examiners. The basic requirement to obtain the license is that you must be 18 years of age and must be the citizen of United States. You must not be convicted of any crime in any jurisdiction. You must have at least three (3) years experience within the last ten (10) years either working as a private investigator or in an investigative capacity. You must not be practicing alcoholic or drug addict.

Then you will have to fill the application for the license. The application should be correctly filled and complete. You will have to provide all the documents. These are passport size photo, fingerprint card and experience certificate. You will have to get the fingerprints done from the police or sheriffs office. You will have to undergo a thorough back ground check. You will have to pay an administration fee to the board .the fee is of $25. It is necessary for you to attend and complete board approves 40 hour basic private investigation preparatory course. Then you will have to appear to the exam conducted by the board for private investigator license. If the applicant is a sole proprietor, he must furnish a copy of his occupational license with the application. You can get the application here.

It is mandatory for you to secure 75 % marks in order to pass the exam. If you do not pass the exam then you will have to retake the exam .the fee to retake the exam is $25. If you pass the exam then you will be provided the license. The total fee for the license is $195.25. After getting the license you can undertake the work of private investigator. You will have to renew the license at its expiration. It is mandatory to renew the license within 30 days of its expiration. If you do not renew the license within 30 days you will have to pay the late fee. The renewal fee are For licensee or any business entity employing more than one investigator: Renewal within 30 days after expiration of license - $200: Late fee - $35; $20 per investigator; Transfer of agent - $50 For private investigator employed by a company or corporation, or apprentice investigator: Annual renewal license fee - $50; Replacement fee for a lost, destroyed, or mutilated license - $25; Renewal within 30 days after expiration of license - $50; Late fee - $35; Transfer of agency$50.


Contact Information:
Website: http://www.lsbpie.com/
Email: info@lsbpie.com
2051 Silverside Dr. Suite 190, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States, 70808
Phone: (225) 763-3556
Fax: (225) 763-3536

Citation Statute:
Chapter 9
Louisiana State Law

How to become private investigator in North Dakota?

In order to work as a private investigator you will have to get the license from North Dakota private Investigation and Security Board. In order to get the license the basic requirements are that you must be at least 18 years of age. You must be citizen of United States and not be convicted of any crime in United States or any of its territories. You must be of good moral character. You must not be addicted to drinking, smoking. You will have gone through a thorough background check and also get your finger prints. You should be a high school graduate or hold an equivalent high school diploma.

Then you will have to fill the application form to get the license. You can get the forms here. It is necessary that you fill the form correctly. All the information should be provided in the form. Each and every question should be answered. You should attach all the required documents along with the form. The documents to be attached are two fingerprint cards, two passport size photographs. You can get the fingerprints done from police or sheriffs office. You will also have to provide a copy showing surety bond.

It is necessary for you to appear and pass the exam conducted by the board within 12 months preceding the date of application. You will also have to provide an experience certificate showing an experience of two thousand hours as an employee of detective agency. You will also have to provide the fee to get the license. The fee structure is as follows: $100.00 as application & testing fee, $52.00 as criminal records search fee, $130.00 as license fees.

You will have to take a thorough care of expiration of the license. The license is valid for two years. The license expires on September thirtieth of every odd numbered month. You will have to pay a late fee of $50 for each month your license is not renewed. You will have to complete a continuing education during the renewal period. To complete the education you will charge a reasonable as decided by the board.

In order to get more information on the rules of state click here.
To get more information on the licensing qualifications and requirements click here.

Reference website: http://www.nd.gov/pisb/elig.html

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.nd.gov/pisb/elig.html
North Dakota Private Investigation & Security Board, 513 E. Bismarck Expressway, Suite 5, Bismarck, North Dakota, United States, 58504
Phone: (701) 222-3063

Citation Statute:
43-30-01 through 43-30-16

How to be a Private Investigator in Georgia?

The state of Georgia allows you to work as a private investigator only when you possess a license as a private investigator issued by Georgia Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies. To work for a company as a private investigator you must be 18 years old or older, and meet the requirements that have been set by the Board. You must be eligible to carry your profession in Georgia by some law or you must be the citizen of United States of America.

In order to become a private investigator in Georgia you need to start a company because Georgia government provides license only to company. If you do not have a four years degree in criminal justice and two years experience in law enforcement, you have to find for an investigation company which will provide you the basic training. The company provides training to if you are younger up to 18, else; you need to possess the degree. This training will prove you eligible to become a private investigator in Georgia. The basic requirement of the government of Georgia to become a private investigator is that you should get a four years degree in criminal justice and two years experience in law enforcement.

As the license in Georgia is given only to companies, hence before applying for a license you have to start a company. For this you have to file an application and register your company. Make sure that your company adheres to the requirements of the Georgia government. After incorporating your company, you can make an application for the private investigator license. You will find company license application form here.

Apply for the criminal investigation license as soon as your company is established. You can do this by going to http://sos.georgia.gov/cgi-bin/plbforms.asp?board=31 and requesting that license, instead of the business license, on the same application.

You need to pass written examination conducted by the administration for getting your license after you have completed your two years training. For any questions regarding examinations please call (478) 207-2440

You must follow Georgia laws and regulations in order to be a successful private investigator in Georgia.

Contact Information:
State Board of Private Security Agencies
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217-3858
(478) 207-1460

How to become a private investigator in Washington?

To become a private investigator in Washington, you have to get the necessary license which is provided by the Washington State Government and Licensing Board. The basic requirements for getting a license is that you must be at least 18 years of age and must a citizen of America or resident alien of united states. But in order to become an armed private investigator the age should be of 21 years. You must not be convicted of crime in any jurisdiction. The director could with held the license if your crime comes in any way in your work of investigation. Washington has four types of licenses: a Private investigator agency license, an unarmed private investigator license, an armed private investigator license, and a certified trainer license.

You have then to fill up the application form requesting for license. The form can be obtained from the Washington state department of licensing forms website. It should be fully filled and all the information mentioned in it should be correct. Along with the application form you will have to pay a licensing fee of $200 for unarmed private investigator license and $100 in addition to for armed private investigators license. Then you have you have to undergo a thorough background check. All applications to become an investigator should be approved by the department.

Mostly those belonging to military service undertake private investigation as a profession but it is not the requirement. Mostly those having degree in criminal justice and experience in law enforcement are generally proffered to be a prospective private investigator. It is also necessary that you have been employed or have an employment letter from a private investigator agency or it is necessary that you may be licensed as a private investigator agency.

You have to also submit a completely filled fingerprint card. You can take the help of sheriff or police department. The card should be of 10 digits. Submit a fully completed application that includes proper identification on a form prescribed by the director for each company of employment. You will have to submit two recent photographs. In addition, you will need to file and keep in force throughout the duration of your license a bond of no less than $5,000. A detailed structure on fees is available here.

State Government and Licensing Board conduct an examination in order to qualify you as a private investigator. For more information on exams please click here.

The gun laws do not allow the private investigator to carry a weapon but by meeting some of the requirements you can get the permission to have a weapon.
For more information please log on to http://www.dol.wa.gov/business/pi/

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.dol.wa.gov/business/pi/
Email: security@dol.wa.gov
Private Investigator Licensing Department of Licensing, PO Box 9048, Olympia, Washington, United States, 98507-9048
Phone: (360) 664-6611
Fax: (360) 570-7888

Citation Statute:
Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
Title 18: Businesses and Professions
Chapter 165: Private Investigators

Washington Administrative Code (WAC)
Title 308: Department of Licensing
Chapter 17: Private Investigative Agencies and Private Investigators

Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
Title 18: Businesses and Professions
Chapter 235: Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions Act

Website: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=18.165

How to become Private Investigator in Utah?

Working as a private investigator in Utah will require you to possess a license issued by the Bureau of Criminal Identification, Utah. The basic requirement is you must be at least 21 years of age. You may be a citizen of United States or you must be lawfully entitled to carry out your profession in United States.

Fill the application form (Form 95-9-01) by answering all the questions therein. The application for Private Investigator is available at http://publicsafety.utah.gov/bci/. The application form must be duly signed as well as notarized.

You have to attach two passport color photographs (2” x 2”) taken within 90 days of this application. You also have to provide copy of your driving license or any other document as identification proof provided by your state. Along with this, two complete fingerprint cards have to be attached. As the bureau does not provide fingerprinting service, you have to contact the police department or sheriff’s office.

One important formality to fulfill is the surety bond document for $10000 referenced by section 53-9-109 and must remain in force until the validity of license. You need to attach a copy of this $10000 surety bond to the application form.

The applicant must have at least 2,000 hours of investigative experience in the field of private investigation. Attach a verified statement of your experience to the application. Include a certificate of workers' compensation insurance.

Registrant Licenses:
The applicant must have at least 1,000 hours of investigative experience. Attach a verified statement of your experience to the application. The registrant must work for a private investigation agency.

Apprentice Applicant:
An apprentice must work for a private investigation agency.
All attachments must be printed or typed to ensure legibility.

Pay application fee $200.00 if your requirement is that of an agency license. This fee will license one investigation agency and the owner or primary investigator of that agency. Pay application fee of $100.00 if you need a registrant or apprentice license. In addition, fees of $24 must be submitted to FBI with each application. The application fees need to be in the form of cash, cashier's check, money order or company check. All checks must be made payable to "Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification". Personal checks will not be accepted. Do remember not to send cash in mail.

A background investigation will be conducted as soon as the bureau receives your application for license. The application will then be reviewed by the Private Investigator Hearing and Licensure Board for recommendation of issuance. The whole process takes a minimum of 90 days.For Utah State Laws refer: http://www.le.state.ut.us/~code/TITLE53/53_08.htm

Contact Information:
Bureau of Criminal Identification
3888 West 5400 South
Taylorsville, Utah 84118
(801) 965-4445

Department of Public Safety & Law Enforcement Services
Bureau of Regulatory Licensing
4501 South 2700 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84119
(801) 965-4461

How to become a private Investigator in Texas?

A private investigator is a private agency; not a part of government or police department. A private investigator investigates and collects information for both private citizens and corporations. In order to become a private investigator in Texas, you must apply to the Private Security Bureau and pass licensing requirements, including a thorough background check. Although many of the private investigators come from a law enforcement or military background, but, it is not a requirement for employment as a private investigator. In order to work in Texas as a private investigator, you need to have a license with you. The following steps will enroll you in the list of private investigators in Texas:

Qualification Criteria: You need to have some practical training on private investigation in order to be a private investigator in Texas. See the following qualification requirements and decide which one best suits you.

• Practical experience of three years in private investigation field;

• If you possess a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a bachelor’s degree with your specialization, you just need to have an additional six months of investigation-related experience;

• an associate degree in criminal justice or related course of study, with an additional twelve months of investigation-related experience; or a specialized course of study directly designed for and related to the private investigations profession, taught and presented through affiliation with a four-year college or university accredited and recognized by the State of Texas. This study must be endorsed by the four year college or university’s department of criminal justice program and include a departmental faculty member(s) on its instructional faculty. This course of study must consist of a minimum of two hundred face-to-face classroom hours including coverage of ethics, Private Security Board administrative rules, the Private Security Act, and related statutes. At the discretion of Bureau manager, other combinations of education and investigation-related experience may be substituted for the above. The bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees and specialized courses referenced above must be affiliated with a college or university recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordination Board, Southern Association of Schools and Colleges or other accreditation organization recognized by the State of Texas.

After meeting these qualifications, a person must register to take the exam with the Private Security Bureau. Upon successful completion of the written exam, a person must show proof of liability insurance.

The person must:

• be at least 18 years of age;
• should not possess any criminal history;
• not have been convicted and charged, in any jurisdiction, of a Class A or Class B or equivalent misdemeanor;
• not have been convicted, within the past 5 years, in any jurisdiction, of a Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense;
• must be mentally fit and not incompetent;
• not have been dishonorably discharged from the United States armed services, discharged from the United States armed services under other conditions determined by the Board to be prohibitive, or dismissed by the United States armed services if a commissioned office in the United States armed services;

After this, apply for license. Select a class type; fill up the application form along with prescribed filing fee. As of 2010, the application fee for each class varies from $361 for a Private Investigation Company license to $412 for a Private Security Company license. Each license class requires its own documentation. Submit the application and required documents to Texas Department of Public Safety, Private Security Bureau. For additional information, click here to visit the Private Security Bureau of Texas (PSB) Web Site or contact the PSB by phone: 512-424-7710

How to become private investigator in Iowa?

In order to work as a private investigator in Iowa it compulsory to get the license. Without the license you will not be allowed to work as an investigator. The license can be obtained from Iowa Department of Public Safety. The basic requirement to become a private investigator is that you must be at least 18 years of age. You must be the citizen of United States and should not be convicted of moral crime. You must be of good moral character. You will have to undergo a thorough background check and get the fingerprints.

Then you will have to get the application form for the license from the Department of Public Safety. If you take the application form by hand then you will have to pay the fee of $10 and you take by mail then you will have to pay the fee of $15. You must completely and correctly fill the application form. Attach all the documents. The documents such as two copies of fingerprints, colored photographs, proof of financial responsibility and a copy of surety bond of $5000. Along with the application you will have to pay the fee of $100 as license fee, plus a $30 processing fee for checking your fingerprints and $10 for each state-issued private investigator ID card you want. If your application form is not approved then you will get the license fee back.

Then you will have to undertake a written examination conducted by the board. The exam is conducted to find out the competency of the applicants. If you pass the exam then you are provided with the license. After that you can work as a private investigator. But make sure that you renew your license every two years because the license expires every two years. The renewal fee is $100. At the time of renewal you will have to go for a continuing education. The education should be of minimum 12 hours of approved course. The Department of Public Services is responsible to send the notice of renewal of application.

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.dps.state.ia.us/asd/licensing.shtml
Email: piinfo@dps.state.ia.us
Private Investigative Licensing Program Services Bureau Iowa Department of Public Safety, Wallace State Office Bldg 3rd Fl, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50319-0045
Phone: (515) 725-6230
Fax: (515) 281-8921

Citation Statute:
Code of Iowa, Chapter 80A; Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 121
Website: http://www.dps.state.ia.us/asd/pi/pi80a03code.pdf

Forms: http://www.dps.state.ia.us/asd/pi_licensing.shtml

How to become Private Investigator in Indiana?

The private investigators in Indiana are licensed. Hence if you want to become a private investigator in Indiana then you will have to acquire the necessary license from the Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing Board. A separate agency is formed investigating the individuals applying for private investigator license. The agency consists of director, assistant director and two case managers. The basic requirement to obtain a license is that you must be at least 21 years of age and must possess a business license. You must not be convicted of any crime and should be of good moral character. The agency inquires whether you have worked without the license. If it is so you will be denied of license.

You must have a bachelor’s degree in the field in which you are going to work. You must have a work experience of minimum 4000 hours/two years in an investigative profession or possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in criminal justice, or a related field from an accredited Institution. You will have to undergo a thorough background check. Then you will have to get fingerprinted. You can get your fingerprints from the police or sheriffs office.

Then you will have to obtain the application from the Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing Board, 402 West Washington Street, Room W072, Indianapolis. You will have to complete the form correctly with all the information. Attach all the necessary documents. You will have to provide in the form your social security number. Attach one passport quality photograph. You will have to undertake a criminal background check and fingerprints. Attach verification of the liability insurance and complete the form verifying investigative experience. You can download the investigative experience form here. Along with application you will have to submit an application fee of $150 which is payable to the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. The forms are available at
http://www.in.gov/pla/bandc/detective/pdfs/applicationAndInstructions.pdf.

Then submit the application to the Indiana private investigator and security guard licensing board. This board meets every third Thursday of odd-numbered months. The form should be submitted one week before the meeting. The license expires every four years on October 1. Hence you will have to renew the license every four years; the renewal fee is $150. You will be charges a late fee of $50 if you are 30 days late for renewal after expiration.

Contact Information:
Website: http://www.in.gov/pla/bandc/detective/
Email: pla11@pla.IN.gov
Indiana Professional License Agency Attn: Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing, 402 W Washington Street, Room W 072, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States, 46204
Phone: (317) 234-3040

Citation Statute:
IC 25-30 25-1-11 Title 862

Website: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title25/ar30/index.html

How to become private investigator in Ohio?

Working as a private investigator in Ohio is adventurous but at the same time involves a high degree of risk. To work in Ohio as a private investigator you need a license issued by Ohio department of public safety. But the basic requirement for obtaining license is that you must have 2 years continuous experience in law enforcement, security and law. You can obtain experience by working under any licensed private investigator. If you do not have law enforcement experience, arrange for a two year internship with a licensed private investigator. The other requirement is that you must not be convicted in any crime since last 20 years. For this you will have to pass the background criminal check.

Firstly you will have to apply for the B class license. For acquiring the license you will have to attach 5 letters of reference from the people which have known you since last 5 years. But the letters should not be from relatives by blood or marriage. You will also have to attach proof of general liability insurance. You will have to attach you experience certificate showing your two years experience without which you will not be provided the license.

In order to get the license you will have to attempt an examination conducted by the Ohio government. This examination will demonstrate your competency as a private investigator or security guard provider. For attempting the examination you will have to pay a fee of $25 which will be non refundable and along with it you will have to pay license fee of $375 which is refundable. A degree in criminal justice is a good starting place for a career as a private investigator.

After passing the examination you will be provided two forms of identification by the state of Ohio. A wall license which you will have to place on the wall at the place of your office and an identification card which you will have to produce at the of performing your duty.

For more information please log on to:
Link 1
Link 2

Contact information:
Email: pisg@dps.state.oh.us
Division of Homeland Security/PI/SG Unit, 1970 W. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio, United States, 43223
Phone: (614) 466-4130
Fax: (614) 752-6380

Associations:
Ohio Association of Security and Investigation Services


Citation Statute:
Ohio Revised Code
Title 47: Occupations - Professions
Chapter 4749: Private Investigators; Security Services

Website: http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/4749

How to become a private investigator in New Mexico?

In order to become a private investigator in New Mexico you have to fulfill the requirements of that state. New Mexico has many requirements for providing the license to become a private investigator. You have to fill the application form requesting the license from the Bureau of Private Investigators and New Mexico Polygraph Advisory Board. The application form is available at http://www.rld.state.nm.us/PrivateInvestigations/forms.html. The basic thing is you must be at least 21 years of age and should attach the proof of age along with your application.

The application form must be complete, signed and provide all the correct information regarding applicant's name, address, phone number, birth date, Social Security number, sex, height, weight, eye color and hair color. You have to attach two current colored passport size photos to the application form.

You will have to complete two fingerprint cards, in addition to the documents listed above. Fingerprints must be on Regulation and Licensing Department/Private Investigations Advisory Board coded fingerprint cards. To obtain those cards, please contact RLD at (505) 476-4650 and they will be mailed to you, or, you may go to the office located at the Toney Anaya Building, 2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, Santa Fe, New Mexico. Complete the card with signature, date of birth, place of birth, height, weight, social security number and license type. Fingerprints must be taken under the supervision of and certified by a New Mexico state police officer, a county sheriff, a municipal chief of police or by comparable officers in the applicant’s state of residence if the applicant is not a resident of New Mexico or a RLD approved private agency or individual. You will have to pay $44 fingerprints fee in favor of “NM Department of Public Safety”.

You must have at least three years of experience in investigative work in past five years. A thorough background check is conducted by the F.B.I to check your criminal history.

You have to truthfully answer the questions as whether you have ever used a name other than the name in which you are applying and certain other questions of this criterion.

Also, you need to pass written examination conducted by the administration. An examination fee for the first attempt is $50. In case, you did not qualify the exam, you have to pay $75 as second attempt fees and subsequent exams. Licenses need to be renewed by June 30th of every odd-numbered year for a fee of $100.

Complete all the above formalities and send your application form along with application fees $100.You will have to follow the rules and regulations of New Mexico. Please click here to know about it.

Contact Information:
Private Investigations Advisory Board,
550 Cerrillos Rd.,
Santa Fe,
NM 87505
Fax Number: (505) 476-4615
Email Address: PIPolygraphBd@state.nm.us

How to become Private Investigator in Nevada?

The basic requirement to become a private investigator in Nevada is that you should be at least 21 years of age. You may be a citizen of United States or must be lawfully entitled to carry out your profession in United States. State of Nevada will not allow you to work legally until you possess a license under Nevada Private Investigating Licensing Board. You must undergo thorough criminal background check through Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Nevada Highway patrol.

You must have five years of investigating experience totaling 10000 hours i.e. 2000 hours each year. An associate’s degree in Police Science or Criminal Justice is the equivalent of 8 months or 1,333 hours, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Police Science or Criminal Justice is the equivalent of 18 months or 3000 hours of experience. If you do not have any experience in private investigation; still don’t be upset, choose a private investigator that will sponsor you. You will get some help here.

You will have to fill State Investigators license application form. You need a passport size photograph, child support information certificate, birth certificate or passport and three years tax returns with w2s, k1s or 1990’s. Copy of a bachelor’s degree in police science or criminal law should be attached with the application form in order to avail month’s credit. Experience must be certified by your employer in the application form.

If you are requesting a license as a corporation, submit articles of incorporation, certificate of incorporation and certificate if good standing from the state you are incorporated in as well as list of corporate officers and directors. Do not forget to provide a certificate of qualification to do business in Nevada signed by Nevada secretary of State only if your company is incorporated in any other state than Nevada.

You need to provide two fingerprint cards along with a cashier's check or money order for $51.25 in favour of Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP). Along with this, you have to provide a fingerprint card and cashiers cheque or money order amount $32 to the California Department of Justice (CDOJ) if you have ever lived in or visited the state of California.

The licensing board requires six notarized certificates of recommendations: three of which support Experience and Qualifications from former employers or clients who can attest to the applicant’s experience, and other three supports Personal References. It would be advisable to have professional or prestigious references as personal references than references from family or friends.

License consists of two categories: Primary and secondary. Primary category is compulsory but secondary consists of canine handler, polygraph examiner, private investigator, private patrolman, process server, and re-possessor. It is up to you which secondary category prefers you to work on. Give a cashier's check or money order for $750 for the first category of license, plus $250 for each secondary additional category. An individual applicant who is a resident of Nevada is liable for the entire cost of the investigation up to a maximum cost of $1,500 for the first category of license and $500 for each additional category of license for which application is made. A corporate applicant or an individual applicant who is not a resident of Nevada is liable for the entire cost of the investigation.


Pay $100 fee for the Nevada State board examination which is conducted quarterly in Las Vegas and Carson City. You have to pass this examination which focuses on Nevada Revised Statutes and Regulations. For some rules and regulations refer http://www.leg.state.nv.us/NAC/NAC-648.html

Citation Statute: 648.110-648.335

For more information please log on to http://nevadapilb.glsuite.us/

Contact Information:
Website: http://nevadapilb.glsuite.us/
Email: pilbinfo@ag.state.nv.us
Nevada Private Investigator Licensing Board, 3476 Executive Pointe Way, Suite 14, Carson City, Nevada, United States, 89706
Phone: (775) 687-3223
Fax: (775) 687-3226


Also you so not need a Private Investigator license to if you fall in following category:

http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthread.php?7305-PI-LICENSING-Nevada

How to Become a Private Investigator in Florida?

One needs to do a lot of preparation if one wants to become a private investigator in Florida. You need to get a license to work as a private investigator in Florida. Therefore will have to pass the required exam and submit the fee to work professionally. It is said that the demand for the information collected by the investigators is going to increase. In Florida the investigators are either self-employed or the combination of self employed and agency workers. The investigators are licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Division of Licensing. Private investigators in Florida require a Class "C" license to work as investigators or a class "A" license to operate their own private investigation agencies. You have to undergo a thorough background check.

Undergo Class “CC” Private Investigator intern training 40 hour programme accredited by Florida department of Education which teaches the basics of private investigation. After completing 24 hours training you can apply for Class “CC” exam. Then appear for Florida private investigation examination by paying $100 as exam fees. This exam covers parts of Florida law that deals with private investigation. These exams are conducted at FDACS division of licensing regional offices twice a month.

Find a fully licensed private investigator that is willing to take you on intern for two years and sponsor you. Attach the letter of intent provided by private investigator to the application for license.

Then apply for a "CC" Private Investigator Intern License. The application for license is available at FDACS division of licensing website. You must provide appropriate information on your address, employment and criminal histories. Attach the certificates describing the training requirements you have met and a letter of intent provided by a license private investigator, passport style photograph and a set of finger prints. The application can be submitted at the FDACS division of licensing regional office, the application fee is $152.

Then complete full time two years as a private investigator intern under the supervision of your sponsoring private investigator. You may be able to reduce the time of requirement if you have done investigative work in the past or have law enforcement training.

After completing your two years internship you can apply for a class “C” private investigator license. Provide all the background information similar to that requested in the “CC” application. Along with it, provide evidence of completion of your two year internship. The application can be submitted at FDACS division of licensing regional office along with an application fee of $167. Along with it, follow Florida State Laws on Private Investigation Industry.

How to become a Private Investigator in Arkansas?

You need to be licensed to work as a private investigator in Arkansas because The State of Arkansas won’t allow you to earn as a private investigator until you possess license issued by Arkansas State Police Department and Arkansas Board of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies. You will have to go through a thorough criminal background check which will cost you $41.25. If you fail in this criminal background check, you will be disqualified for getting a private investigator license.

The basic requirement for requesting a license is that you must have minimum two years of practical experience in private investigation field under the supervision of a private investigator. That concerned private investigator should be licensed and must be working in any of Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana or Oklahoma. Arkansas share reciprocity with Tennessee, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. The licensed private investigator under whom you will be working will have to provide a written confirmation of your working time to the Arkansas police Department when you apply for license with the Arkansas State Police Department.

You also need to pass the State Board Exam conducted by the Arkansas Board of Private Investigator and Private Security Agencies. You need to successfully clear this exam in order to get your private investigator license hassle-free. Please contact Arkansas Board of Private Investigator and Private Security Agencies for any questions regarding Examinations.

Now, the next step is to fill an application form requesting for a license. The application form should be completely filled and duly signed attached along with the required documents such as two year experience certificate from your licensed private investigator. All the application forms are available for download here. The application for license (fees) will cost you $225. Also, license renewal will cost you $150.

Contact Information:

Website: http://www.asp.state.ar.us/divisions/rs/rs_index.html#private
Email: info@asp.arkansas.gov
Licensing Division Arkansas State Police Headquarters, 1 State Police Plaza Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States, 72209
Phone: (501) 618-8600

Citation Statute:

Arkansas Statutes 17-40-101 – 117-40-107

How to become private investigator in Montana?

As estimated by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry Research and Analysis Bureau, the need for private investigators in Montana will increase by nearly 22 percent through 2018, creating close to 10,000 new jobs in the state during that time frame. For working as a private investigator in Montana, you will need a private investigator license. The Montana Board of Private Security offers two levels of licenses: one for trainees and one for investigators who can work independently without supervision.

The basic criteria to request a private investigator license is that if you are a trainee licensee your age must be minimum 18 and that of full investigator licensee, your age should be minimum 21. Also, you must be a citizen of United States or a resident alien in USA. You will have to go a thorough background check conducted by Montana Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. No additional requirements are mentioned for trainee license but, they only have to submit an application along with an application fee $125 to Montana Board of private security. The trainee license application is available here. The full private investigator license to work independently is available here.

To request a full private investigator license The Montana Board of Private Security conditions all candidates to meet minimum education and experience requirements to qualify. All applicants must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. You need to have a minimum of three years of practical work experience in private investigation with a trainee license in Montana or outside of the state. You can include 18 months of experience as a law enforcement or peace officer toward the three-year requirement. If you do so, you need not undergo full practical experience of three years. You can also educate yourself at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy or a post-secondary college or university and add it towards the practical experience condition. At least half of the experience must come from private investigation.

But the case is different for full private investigator license. The Montana Board of Private Security requires that all applicants must undergo the Private Investigator Board examination and achieve a minimum score of 70 percent. This exam is a multiple choice test and costs only $20. You must obtain a minimum of $500,000 of general commercial liability insurance prior to licensing. Along with the application you have to submit three letters of recommendation. Pay an application fee of $225.

The given license is subject to validity only for one year. Then the trainee and full licensees have to renew their licenses at a cost of $75 and $150 respectively. To inquire into more details please click here.

Reference Website: http://bsd.dli.mt.gov/license/bsd_boards/psp_board/board_page.asp

Contact Information:
Email: dlibsdpsp@mt.gov
Board of Private Security Patrol Officers and Investigators, 301 S Park, Room 430 PO Box 200513, Helena, Montana, United States, 59620-0513
Phone: (406) 841-2387
Fax: (406) 841-2309


Citation Statute:
Title 37 Chapter 60

Website: http://data.opi.mt.gov/bills/mca_toc/37_60.htm

How to become a Private Investigator in Wisconsin?

Working as a private investigator in Wisconsin sounds good but, is only valid if you possess a license as a private investigator to work therein. If you are interested in becoming a private investigator in Wisconsin, then you must request for a private investigator license from the Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing who issues it. Before getting your private investigator license, you will have to fulfill some requirements. Basic requirement is that you must be at least 18 years of age. You must undergo a thorough criminal background check. You must be qualified at least to a high school diploma and be employed by a licensed private investigator agency in Wisconsin. You must have a liability insurance of $2000.

The next step is to apply for a license through an application. The application for license is available for download here. To let your license be processed hassle-free, do pay Wisconsin State Taxes or child support. If you are irregular in paying these taxes in your history, your license will be automatically denied.

Then you need to be fingerprinted. Wisconsin requires fingerprints of all the new applicants and the application requesting for license been submitted within 14 days of been fingerprinted. In order to get your fingerprints you need to fix an appointment with L-1 Identify Solutions. Contact L-1 Identify Solutions on 1-866-416-4896.

Along with your application, you will have to attach your fingerprints and other additional documentations such as a release for federal bureau of Investigation and Information, photograph and conviction charges form. The information related to conviction charges form can be obtained from http://drl.wi.gov/docview.asp?docid=406&locid=0.

Next step is to appear for State Licensing Exam which consists of 100 questions covering Wisconsin statutes and administrative code, as well as investigative practices relevant to functioning as a private investigator. The Examinations are conducted via computer upon appointment. It is necessary that you pass the examination before submitting the application for license to the Department. The completed Application for Private Investigator License must be submitted within one year of passing the examination. To purchase a copy of the Private Detective Code Book, call 608-264-9419.

Contact Information:
Website: http://ww2.wisconsin.gov/state/license/
Email: web@drl.state.wi.us
Department of Regulation and Licensing, PO Box 8935, Madison, Wisconsin, United States, 53708
Phone: (608) 266-2112

Citation Statute:
Wisconsin Statutes
Chapter 440: Department of Regulation and Licensing
Subchapter II: Private Detectives, Private Security Persons

Website: http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/stats.html