If you’re interested in becoming a private detective, you’ll find that many states require that you have some sort of private investigator training before you can be licensed. However, the type of training and the amount of training can vary from one state to the next.
One of the first things that people should do when they are considering this career is to look up the requirements in their state to get a better idea of what’s needed. However, those who want to increase the chance of getting a good job as an investigator and who want to have the right knowledge and skills will go beyond just what’s needed.
Do You Need a Degree?
Although you’ll need to have a high school diploma, you don’t typically need to have a degree from college to become an investigator. However, in some states, having some college will reduce the amount of time that’s needed training with a PI firm to get your own license. Having a degree can also help you to get a better job with higher pay, as it’s something that many employers will look for when hiring an investigator.
Of course, if you want to get a degree, you should make sure it’s in an applicable field. This might include criminal justice, forensics, etc.
Training with an Investigator
Before being allowed to get a PI license, or to take the state exam in those states that require an exam, you’ll typically have to have some training. This is often done by training with an investigator and working for a PI company in an investigative capacity as an intern or assistant.
It could also be training that was received as a law enforcement officer, in the military as part of law enforcement, or in some other capacity that provided hands-on training. States have their own regulations on this, so you’ll need to check the requirements of your state.
Training Courses—Online and Offline
You’ll also find private investigator training in online and offline capacities today. The training could help to provide you with a better understanding of the different duties of being a PI. It will typically help you to better understand the laws in your state as they pertain to investigators, as well. Often, these training courses can help to get would-be investigators ready to take a state exam for their license.
Many companies are offering this type of training today. Always take the time to research the company or individual offering the training to make sure they can provide quality training that will help you to get your license, or that will qualify for ongoing training hours as required by your state.
Additional Training
Many states require that you have ongoing training after you have your license. Different states will have different requirements when it comes to how many hours and the types of private investigator training that might be needed to satisfy the ongoing training requirement. Always check with your state once you have your license.
California Private Investigator Lance Casey Sr.
Lance Casey & Associates 2386 Fair Oaks Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95825 (800) 683-4769.