I get asked a lot by clients, and aspiring PI’s what are the requirements to become a PI? It’s not a simple answer because every state is different.
For instance, California has stiff requirements to obtain a PI license. One requirement is having three years (2,000 hours each year, totaling 6,000 hours) of compensated experience in investigative work.
Some states don’t require having a license to practice private investigative work. There are seven states that do not require having a license. They are:
Alabama
Alaska (the city of Fairbanks does require a license)
Colorado
Idaho
Mississippi
South Dakota
Wyoming
Note: Some of these states may need other requirements such as a business license.
To get licensed in Wisconsin it’s a little easier. They require:
-Applicants must be employed by a private detective agency to obtain a private detective license.
-A private detective must either be covered by a comprehensive general liability policy maintained by the private detective agency or be bonded for $2,000.
-Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
-Applicants must submit fingerprints for a background check.
-Applicants must take and pass a 100-question examination
It’s a hard road to get hired but don’t get discouraged. There are always opportunities in this profession if you have the desire.
For questions on a state by state basis visit Facebook
As always, thanks for reading. Also, please check out my Facebook and Twitter.