How to Become a Private Investigator

Becoming a private investigator can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but requires dedication, stamina, and the ability to interact with people in general. You would also need to have critical-thinking skills, have a full understanding and knowledge of this area of expertise, and you must have a personality and will that combines both assertiveness, aggressiveness, and persistence. If you would like to know how to become a private investigator, here are the details.

What is a private investigator? He or she is someone who is required to obtain information about a particular person. While an investigator may usually work for an attorney, the duties and responsibilities require diligence and focus. A PI’s duties may include: locating missing persons, surveillance, conducting background checks, and the like.

While most private investigators may be former members of law enforcement or have a degree in criminal justice, it would be preferable for you to enroll in some course of study that deals with investigative work. It is recommended that enrollment in a detective school as the first step in becoming a PI.

As a private investigator, your command of the English language, your writing skills, and your ability to articulate any given scenario in a precise manner are critical to those with whom you work, as well as the courts if you ever need to testify. Thus, if you need additional courses on writing and communication skills by all means check your local colleges and enroll.

You may also be required to use software for background checks. Therefore, if you are not proficient in computer applications, now is the time to begin taking courses so that you can adequately navigate the internet.

Obtaining a license is also required, however, in is not mandatory in all states. Check your own state law enforcement division to ascertain what is needed. For example, in New York there is an option to either obtain an individual license or a business license. These are issued for a two-year period and cost approximately $475 and $575, respectively.

Licensing requirements for NYS are: minimum 25 years of age, passing the PI exam, and three years experience or three years equivalent position and experience. What’s the difference? Experience means you must have worked for 3 years as a PI, either working for another investigator, a government, or policy agency. Equivalent means that your position must include conducting investigations or have 3 years of supervising other PIs. In addition, fingerprinting is also required. In some states, you may have to be bonded as well.

Whether you decide to work for an agency or begin your own PI business, research and thoroughly become knowledgeable on all of the facets and requirements needed to become a private investigator.