As a private investigator, you are trusted with sensitive and important information. More and more states are recognizing the need for private investigators to receive proper training and licensing in order to perform their duties. Most states require some form of licensure and or continuing education to operate as a private investigator. The only states that do not require a private investigator to obtain a license are Idaho, Mississippi, South Dakota and Wyoming. To fully understand why having a private investigator license is so important, let’s take a look at the different responsibilities of a private investigator. .
Although the definition of a private investigator varies for each state, private investigators can generally be defined as “someone who is hired for a fee or other consideration to obtain information regarding the habits, conduct, whereabouts, or trustworthiness of people; the location of stolen property; and/or the cause or responsibility of accidents, injuries, or fires.” Each of these responsibilities is usually carried out by private investigators of specific disciplines, but receiving the proper training and licensing is crucial to making sure information in not mishandled, lost, or obtained through illegal channels. As a private investigator, you will be entrusted with this sensitive information and will be asked to act as a custodial of evidence especially if your findings are presented in a court of law.
The requirements to obtain a private investigator license will vary from state to state. Most states require at least two years of related experience, either through an approved educational provider or from experience in similar fields such as law enforcement.
The National Investigative Training Academy, Inc. (NITA) has online courses to give you the experience and edge in the field of private investigation. Whether you are getting your foot in the door or refreshing your skills as an established investigator, NITA has a course to fit your needs. To inquire about getting your education and private investigator license, visit our site or call us at 1-800-730-NITA (6482) today.
Our enrollment counselors are here to answer any questions you might have about our state- and board-approved status, pre-licensing training, or professional development programs.
