How to Become a Private Detective

How to Become a Private Detective

How to Become a Private Detective. Becoming a private detective requires a certain set of skills and temperament. The profession is not as romantic as movies and pulp fiction novels make it seem. The work can be tedious and meticulous. The job is best suited for those who are adept at finding out facts in the field and returning the information to clients who may not like what they hear.


Instructions

1. Consider your existing job experience and how it can add to your resume as a private eye. If you've worked as a security guard, an accountant, a bail bondsman, a store manger, a teacher or any number of other professions that involve safety, security and leadership, you have already taken the first step to building up a resume to become a private detective.

2. Get a degree in law enforcement, criminal justice or private security from an accredited institution. Harcourt, PCDI and Thompson Direct are three academies that offer courses in becoming a private investigator. These courses can be expensive. A degree isn't necessary to become licensed, but most successful private eyes have taken this step, because of the training and education potential clients or agencies look for on a resume for a private detective.

3. Get a license for the state you wish to practice in. The requirements to become a private detective vary from state to state. In some states, only a business license is required. In others, you must have both a business and an private investigator's license. See the resources section for a state-by-state list of licensing requirements.


4. Join an already licensed agency or start your own investigation business. This involves an extensive background check in either case, so be prepared to show all documentation your state may require. If you have a felony criminal record you will not be able to gain a license to become a private detective.

Source:ehow