You might be interested to be a private investigator. The good news is that private investigators are much safer than you might think. They rarely have to get involved in car chases or shootouts. It’s an attractive and viable way of making a living with the potential to earn a solid salary and great job opening forecasts.
The smartest thing to do is to learn how to become a private investigator. This includes the licensing requirements. This guide will give you a good understanding of the requirements to become a private detective, as well as how to obtain a private investigator surety bond.
How do I become a private investigator?
Each state has its own requirements for becoming a licensed private detective. Depending on the state regulations, you may not require a private investigator license to conduct private investigations.
Do I need a PI license to be a private investigator in New York?
This follow-up question will help you answer the question. Are you looking to start your own private investigation company or work for a private investigator? You’ll need to be a qualified officer to operate this type of private investigation business. If you are interested in working for a private investigator agency, however, a New York PI license will not be required. You will still need to be fingerprinted, registered as support staff, and undergo any other requirements or vetting required by the state.
What are the requirements for becoming a licensed private detective?
Each state has its own requirements for licensure. Because our training is based in New York, which is one of the most difficult states to obtain a PI license, we will highlight New York’s requirements.
New York State PI License Requirements:
- At least 25 years old
- A US citizen,
- A High School Diploma
- Assume the role of principal in the business entity.
- Expertise to manage the day-to-day operations of conducting investigations.
- It takes two years to pass the NYS private investigator test before you submit your application.
- Three years of experience, or “equivalent” position and experience. “
- Register to be fingerprinted by the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services. (Information about scheduling and where to find a fingerprinting location)
What college degree do I need to become a private detective?
New York State does not require a college degree to be a private investigator. Likewise, no other state in the United States requires a degree in private investigation in order to be licensed. Private investigators usually have a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in criminal justice or another similar field. Some states require you to complete required courses to obtain your PI license. No matter what state requirements you may have, we recommend that you take private investigator development courses if you are new to private investigation or if you want to increase your credibility.
What skills are required to be a private investigator?
Private investigators are looking for people with key skills, such as:
- For report writing, you need to be able to proofread and write well.
- Problem solving and deduction
- Large amounts of data can be gathered and analyzed.
- Construct complex concepts into concise explanations that are appropriate for laypeople.
- Patience, perseverance, and persistence are the key.
What is the average time it takes to become a licensed private detective?
It varies from one state to the next. This is dependent on how long it takes to complete the requirements and pass. It will take you at most three years to pass the New York PI licensing exam.