PI License Requirements – How to Become a Private Investigator

Becoming a licensed private investigator in the United States requires meeting specific state-level qualifications. These typically include minimum age requirements, relevant experience or education, passing a background check, and completing a state application process. Some states also mandate fingerprinting, training hours, or surety bonds.

This guide breaks down how to get your PI license in all 50 states, including eligibility requirements, application steps, and unique regulations for each state.

Below is a list of US states and how to become a private investigator in each one of them. Please once again keep in mind that many states require a private investigator (PI) license to become a private investigator.

Alabama

The responsible body is the Alabama Private Investigation Board. You can find more information and resources for licensing on their website: Alabama Private Investigation Board.

Alaska

In Alaska, private investigator licensing is handled at the municipal level in cities like Anchorage. The Municipality of Anchorage has specific requirements and fees for obtaining a Private Detective Agency License. Details can be found on the Municipality of Anchorage’s website.

Arizona

Licensing by the Arizona Department of Public Safety. More info at Arizona DPS.

Arkansas

Licensed through Arkansas State Police. Application and details at Arkansas State Police.

California

The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services manages PI licensing. Detailed information can be found at BSIS.

Colorado

Previously managed by the Office of Private Investigator Licensure, though the program ended in 2020. Check for updates at PPIAC.

Connecticut

Licensing is overseen by the Connecticut Department of Emergency Service and Public Protection. Visit CT DESPP for more.

Delaware

Managed by the Division of State Police Board of Examiners of Private Investigators & Private Security Agencies. Information available at DSP Delaware.

Florida

Licensing is through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Visit FDACS for application forms.

Georgia

The Georgia Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies oversees licensing. More information at Georgia SOS.

Hawaii

For private investigation licensing in Hawaii, the Board of Private Detectives and Guards under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs handles the licensing process. Detailed information about application forms, requirements, fees, and examination dates can be found on their website: Board of Private Detectives and Guards.

Idaho

Idaho does not have state-level licensing requirements for private investigators. However, it’s important for anyone operating as a private investigator in Idaho to be aware of local regulations and any business laws that may apply.

Illinois

In Illinois, the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees the licensing of private detectives. This includes licenses for individual detectives, detective agencies, and related training and firearm control certifications. For detailed information on the application process, examination requirements, and associated fees, visit the IDFPR’s Private Detective page.

Indiana

In Indiana, the Private Investigator & Security Guard Licensing is managed by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. For detailed information on licensing requirements, application instructions, and the fee schedule, you can visit their official site at Indiana PLA.

Iowa

In Iowa, firms and individuals providing private investigative, security services, or engaging in bail enforcement must be licensed by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. The requirements for this licensure are outlined in Iowa Code Chapter 80A and further regulated by administrative rules. Individuals interested in starting their own agency must complete an application process, including submission of fingerprint cards and necessary documentation for processing. More details can be found on the Iowa Department of Public Safety website.

Kansas

For private investigation licensing in Kansas, the Attorney General’s Office is responsible for the regulation and licensing process. This includes individual detectives, agencies, and the certification of firearms trainers for private detectives. For more information on application forms, renewal processes, and statutes regulating private detectives in Kansas, you can visit the Kansas Attorney General’s Office website here.

Kentucky

In Kentucky, the Board of Licensure for Private Investigators regulates the profession to ensure public safety and welfare. This includes licensing of private investigators, regulation, and discipline of all licensed professionals. For more information on licensing requirements and procedures in Kentucky, you can contact them at (502) 892-4257 or visit their official site.

Louisiana

Maine

In Maine, the Special Investigations Unit of the Maine State Police oversees licensing for professional investigators, investigative assistants, and professional security companies. For more detailed information on licensing requirements, forms, handbooks, and contact details, visit the Maine State Police website.

Maryland

In Maryland, the licensing and regulation of private investigators are managed by the Maryland State Police. The private detective identification card, necessary for employment with a private detective agency, remains the property of the State and must comply with specific regulations, including renewal and conditions under which it can be revoked. For detailed information on the application process, licensing requirements, and renewal procedures for private detectives in Maryland, you should refer to the Maryland State Police website directly, particularly the sections dedicated to Professional Licenses and Private Detective Certifications.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, to apply for a private investigator license, you must submit an application to the State Police Colonel, including certifications from three reputable Massachusetts citizens who have known you for at least three years. Applicants must also demonstrate good moral character and meet specific professional experience requirements or have been a police officer in good standing for at least 10 years. Felony convictions disqualify candidates from receiving a license. For more details, visit Mass.gov.

Michigan

In Michigan, to become a licensed professional investigator, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 25 years old, with a high school education or equivalent. You cannot have been convicted of a felony or specific misdemeanors. There’s a requirement for 3 years of relevant experience or education. Additionally, you need a $10,000 bond or insurance policy. For detailed requirements, visit the State of Michigan website.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, licensing requirements for private detectives are overseen by the Board of Private Detective and Protective Agent Services. Application forms are not directly available online; instead, prospective applicants must request an application packet by filling out an Application Request Form and submitting it with the required fee to the board’s office. For more detailed information on application requirements and procedures, you should refer to the official state website.

Mississippi

In Mississippi, there are currently no state licensing requirements for individuals to become private investigators. However, if you plan to operate a private detective business, you will need to apply for a business license at the local level. Since laws can frequently change, it’s recommended to check with the appropriate Mississippi state licensing agency for the most current information.

Missouri

For detailed information on the application process, fees, and the examination, you should directly visit the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s website or contact them for the most current information and guidance on becoming a licensed private investigator in Missouri.

Montana

For additional details on the licensing process and to request an application packet, visit the Montana Board of Private Security.

Nebraska

In Nebraska, individuals looking to become licensed private detectives, private detective agencies, or plain clothes investigators must request an application from the Licensing Division. The Nebraska State Patrol conducts an investigation into the character and reputation of each applicant before issuing a license. Testing for all eligible applicants occurs on the third Wednesday of each month. For more details, you can contact the Licensing Division at (402) 471-8606.

Nevada

In Nevada, no person may engage in or advertise their business as a private investigator without being licensed pursuant to the state’s regulations. For detailed information on licensing requirements, procedures, and other relevant details for private investigators in Nevada, visit the Nevada Private Investigators Licensing Board website.

New Hampshire

For those looking to become licensed as private investigators in New Hampshire, you’ll need to fill out specific forms and submit them in person, except for Agency license applications, to the Department of Safety’s Permits and Licensing division. All armed applicants must call ahead to schedule a fingerprinting appointment. For detailed information on the forms required and the licensing process, visit the NH State Police website.

New Jersey

In New Jersey, the State Police Private Detective Unit is responsible for licensing private detectives. The licensing process involves a detailed application, fingerprinting, and adherence to the Private Detective Act of 1939. For comprehensive information on the application process, requirements, and updates, visit the New Jersey State Police Private Detective Unit website.

New Mexico

The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department has implemented an online licensing system for all Private Investigations Advisory Board occupations, streamlining the process for applying and renewing licenses. For detailed instructions on how to apply or renew your license, visit the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department website.

New York

For detailed information on the requirements and process to become a licensed private investigator in New York, including application forms, testing arrangements, and contact details for the Division of Licensing Services, you can visit the official New York Department of State website at this link.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, the Private Protective Services Board oversees the licensing process for private investigators. Requirements include being at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or resident alien, and having a high school degree or equivalent. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and temperate habits. For a Private Investigator License, three years of experience in private investigative work or in an investigative capacity with a law enforcement or governmental agency is required. For more details, you can visit the North Carolina Department of Public Safety’s website.

North Dakota

To become a private investigator in North Dakota, individuals must meet several qualifications, including being at least 18 years old, holding a high school diploma or equivalent, and having a clean criminal record. They must also be mentally competent and of good moral character. Licensing requires passing an examination by the board and completing 2,000 hours of investigative services. For more detailed information on the licensing process and requirements, you can visit the Private Investigation and Security Board of North Dakota’s official website.

Ohio

For more detailed information on the licensing process, application forms, and specific requirements for private investigators in Ohio, please visit the official PISGS website.

Oklahoma

To become a private investigator in Oklahoma, you must be at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal background, and be of sound mind. Licensing requires bonding, and the license fee is $91 for an unarmed investigator and $141 for armed. Training includes a 20-hour Phase I and 35-hour Phase III course, with additional requirements for armed investigators. Licenses must be renewed every two years, requiring 16 hours of continuing education. For more details on the application process and requirements, visit Private Investigator License in Oklahoma.

Oregon

To become a licensed private investigator in Oregon, you need to complete an application, secure a $5,000 surety bond or equivalent, submit fingerprints, provide three professional references, and prove 1,500 hours of relevant experience or some educational substitution. You must also pass a professional code of ethics review, comply with criminal disqualifiers, and pay a $75.25 application fee plus a $550 licensing fee. The entire process, including a background check, typically takes 4-8 weeks. For more information, please visit the official Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training website.

Pennsylvania

To become a private investigator in Pennsylvania, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 25 years old, and have three years of experience in law enforcement or a detective agency. You cannot have convictions for serious crimes. The application process involves submitting fingerprints, character references, passport-sized photos, a $10,000 surety bond, and a $200 license fee. Licensing is handled at the county level by the Clerk of Courts.

Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, becoming a private investigator requires meeting certain requirements and applying for licensure at the local level. Applicants must be over 18, be U.S. citizens, pass a criminal history check, and obtain a $5,000 surety bond. Experience or a degree in criminal justice is also needed. There’s no state-level exam, but specific city or county requirements may vary. For detailed information on how to become a private investigator in Rhode Island, including forms and fees, visit Private Investigator License Requirements in Rhode Island.

South Carolina

In South Carolina, to become a licensed private investigator, you must be at least 18 years old, a US citizen, and pass a background check. A $10,000 surety bonding is required. Experience requirements include three years as a police officer with investigative duties or employment in a licensed investigation business. Education such as a PI Study Certificate or degrees can count towards experience. No written exam is needed for licensure. For more detailed information on the licensing process in South Carolina, visit Private Investigator License Requirements in South Carolina.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, there is no state licensing requirement for private investigators. However, if you’re planning to operate independently, it’s necessary to establish your business and obtain a sales tax license. Additionally, while there’s no formal education or training mandated by the state, acquiring analytical skills and legal knowledge, possibly through a degree in criminal justice or related fields, could be beneficial for success in this profession. For more detailed guidelines on becoming a private investigator in South Dakota, visit Private Investigator License Requirements in South Dakota.

Tennessee

To become a private investigator in Tennessee, you must be over 21, a US citizen or legal alien, and affiliated with a licensed PI agency or own one. A background check is required, and you must be of good moral character. No insurance or bonding is needed. You’re disqualified if dependent on alcohol/narcotics or have committed fraud. A written exam is necessary, covering Tennessee laws related to PI work. For detailed licensing requirements, visit Private Investigator License in Tennessee.

Texas

In Texas, private investigators are considered part of private security and must meet strict licensure requirements set by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Requirements include being 18 years or older, legally allowed to work in the U.S., and passing a background check. You must also be sponsored by a licensed investigator, meaning employment in a private investigation agency is necessary. Texas does not require a written exam but mandates 40 hours of Level III or IV training from an approved school. For more details, visit Private Investigator License in Texas.

Utah

To become a licensed private investigator in Utah, you must be over 21 years old, a legal resident of the state, and pass a criminal background check. A surety bond of at least $10,000 is also required. While there’s no mandated written exam, obtaining at least 2,000 hours of investigative experience is necessary for licensure. For further details on how to become a private investigator in Utah, including application fees and process, visit Private Investigator License Requirements in Utah.

Vermont

To become a private investigator in Vermont, you must be at least 18 years old, have two years of investigative experience, and pass a criminal background check. Training is also required, including a 40-hour Board-approved program for all investigators and additional firearms training if you plan to carry a weapon. You’ll need to apply for registration with the Vermont Board of Private Investigative and Security Services, complete the necessary training, and then apply for full licensure. For more detailed information on the process, visit How to Become a Private Investigator in Vermont.

Virginia

In Virginia, to become a private investigator, you must be at least 18 years old, have completed all initial training requirements, and be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien. The training includes 60 hours of entry-level courses. You must apply online, pay applicable fees, and schedule fingerprinting. Additional steps are required for those seeking a firearms endorsement. For detailed information, visit the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services website at DCJS Virginia.

Washington

In Washington, to become a private investigator, you need to be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or resident alien, and be employed or have an offer from a licensed PI company. You must also have a clean criminal record related to the profession’s duties. For further details on how to apply for or renew your license, including fees and forms, you can visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website: dol.wa.gov.

West Virginia

To become a private investigator in West Virginia, you must be over 18, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, of good moral character, and free of certain convictions. You need either significant work experience in investigations or a combination of education and experience in the criminal justice field. A surety bond and a comprehensive application process, including character references and fingerprinting, are also required. For detailed steps, including application submission and fees, check the full guide at https://sos.wv.gov/FormSearch/Business/Documents/PISG_EligReq.pdf.

Wisconsin

To become a private investigator in Wisconsin, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being 18 years or older, understanding English, and having no felony convictions. Additional requirements involve being fingerprinted and possibly obtaining a $2,000 bond unless covered by an agency’s insurance. The process includes passing a state licensing exam, with the option to carry firearms involving further requirements. Detailed guidance on these steps, including education and experience recommendation https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/PrivateDetective/Default.aspx.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, there are no state licensing requirements for private investigators, but if you’re planning to work in Cheyenne, you’ll need a local license.