how to become a private investigator

Typically, you will need to pass an exam, and sometimes a short training course. ​Your state may require specific training and/or coursework to be completed before a license is issued to you. Private Investigators (also known as PIs) are freelance detectives, hired by individuals to secretly collect evidence on a particular case. Do you need a degree to be a private investigator? You won’t need any formal qualifications in order to become a Private Investigator. If your region allows PIs to carry weapons, and you're willing to accept more dangerous jobs, consider firearm training and a weapons permit. This coursework does not equate to an associate's or bachelor's degree. Here is our list of schools that offer private investigator training or relevant coursework​. Private investigator national percentile wage estimates are as follows: Becoming a private investigator doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes you just need to do a little digging…. Your best friends will be late night coffee stops, energy drinks, and the front seat of your car. Typical duties for a Private Investigator could include: To become a Private Investigator, it will take excellent observation and surveillance skills, not to mention patience. Exceptions to this rule, at the time this article was published, are: Idaho, Mississippi, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

In this article we have condensed the process into three simple steps. ​Steps to Becoming a Private Investigator, Find out your state's requirements to become a private investigator, ​Maintain Your Private Investigator License. What subjects do I need to study to become a private investigator? The top paying states for this occupation are: These figures represent annual mean wages. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. This question doesn't have a "one-size-fits-all-answer" - think about it for a moment - every state has different regulations that determine how long it will take you to become a private investigator. Can I investigate someone without experience? In the US, contact your state or city Department of Public Safety to find out more. In California, for example, a law degree or four-year police science degree eliminates 2,000 hours. If you’re interested in being a private investigator, try to become an excellent observer, since investigators spend a lot of time on surveillance. This private investigating course is a great step in the right direction for anyone looking to start an agency of their own, and also to anyone wanting to have more investigative skills in their own business and private life. ​Private Investigator Salary – how much do private investigators make? This usually occurs on cold cases, which are ones that weren't solved by the police. As previously stated, not all states require a license to operate as a PI, so make sure to go over your state’s requirements. Keep reading for more information.

If there is no reciprocity agreement, you will need a license for each region. ​State-Specific Coursework/Training vs. Higher Education: You should also be aware that the educational requirements to become a private investigator/detective do not necessarily entail a higher education degree. In others, you need to be as "normal" as possible to obtain information and appear trustworthy.