Does anyone know how to become a private investigator???

Question

I am currently in college going for a degree in Criminal Justice. I am researching jobs for a private detective, but I cannot find anyone who is hiring. Does anyone know where to look for these jobs or any tips on how to become a private investigator?

Answer 1

You have to work for a licensed agency for the number of years your state mandates before applying for your own license, depending on the state. (Some states don't have pi licensing laws, you're on your own to find that out.) Here in NY it's 3 years, VA is 5, CA is 3, Texas is 3, FL is 5, they all vary.

Start with the usual insurance surveillance companies, they will hire new people. Monster.com has ads from mjm investigations and two others that do a lot of hiring of newbies.

Answer 2

Some detective agencies provide state sponsored schooling. An example would be Salter Detective Agency, in business for many years with a very good reputation.. Keep in mind though that once you have completed your training you are required by law to work as an apprentice under a licensed detective for at least 1000 hours before you can take the final state test to become a licensed investigator. A long process but to many it is worth it

Answer 3

It depends on where you want to work. States have different requirements. There are different types of private investigators. Some are general investigators. If you want to know how to become a private investigator, consider what type of investigations you might want to conduct. Corporate investigators typically need a 4 year degree. Coursework in finance, accounting, and business is often preferred. Because many financial investigators have an accountant’s background, they typically have a 4 year degree in accounting or a related field. Many computer forensics investigators need a 4 year degree in a field such as computer science or criminal justice. Many colleges and universities now offer certificate programs and degrees in computer forensics. Because computer forensics specialists need both computer skills and investigative skills, extensive training may be required if you want to become a private investigator of this type. Many computer forensic investigators learn their trade while working for a law enforcement agency, where they are taught how to gather evidence and to spot computer-related crimes. Many people enter law enforcement to get this training and to establish a reputation before moving on to the private sector. If you become a law enforcement officer, you will already understand how to become a private investigator. Because they work with changing technologies, computer forensic investigators never stop training. They must learn the latest methods of fraud detection and new software programs and operating systems by attending conferences and courses offered by software vendors and professional associations.

Answer 4

Different states have different requirements for private investigators. Also, there are different types of investigators. To become a private investigator, you need a license in most states. However, you can work for a private investigator without a license. You usually don't need a college degree to become a private investigator. Although it is a good idea to get a college degree. Many private investigators have a college degree, and some firms might require their investigators to have a degree. College courses in criminal justice and political science can be helpful to aspiring private investigators. Although previous work experience is generally required, some people enter the occupation directly after graduating from college with a two or 4 year degree in criminal justice or police science. There are different types of private investigators. Some are general investigators and some specialize in a particular area or area. Consider what type of investigations you might want to conduct. Corporate investigators typically need a 4 year degree. Coursework in finance, accounting, and business is often preferred. Because many financial investigators have an accountant’s background, they typically have a 4 year degree in accounting or a related field. Many computer forensics investigators need a 4 yeard degree in a field such as computer science or criminal justice. Many colleges and universities now offer certificate programs and degrees in computer forensics. Because computer forensics specialists need both computer skills and investigative skills, extensive training may be required if you want to become a private investigator of this type. Many computer forensic investigators learn their trade while working for a law enforcement agency, where they are taught how to gather evidence and to spot computer-related crimes. Many people enter law enforcement to get this training and to establish a reputation and make contacts before moving on to the private sector. Private investigators typically have previous work experience. Some have worked for insurance or collections companies, as paralegals, in finance, or in accounting. Again, many private investigators enter the field after serving in law enforcement, the military, or federal intelligence jobs. These people, who frequently are able to retire after 25 years of service, often become private investigators as a second career. Having law enforcement experience can help.

Answer 5

Yes, I am. I mean, I do. It depends on what state you work in. Contact the Secretary of State's office and they will tell you the rules. You will have to work under someone elses license, usually.

Answer 6

All I know is you do have to have the schooling, pass a test and get a license from the State. Your background has to be crystal clean, also.

Answer 7

May I respectfully suggest that you make it your first 'case' to find out all you can on how to become a detective. If you succeed in doing so, you will be at least half way there...............

Answer 8

Talk to some police detectives, they would probably give you some good answers.

Answer 9

First you need your degree.then a license from your state..Try Insurance companies, investment firms, Security Companies