Career roadmap
How to Become a Detective
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a detective, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a detective: (1) become a police officer, (2) excel on patrol, (3) take investigation courses, (4) pass the detective process, (5) specialize or advance. Most people need about 3–5 years as a police officer. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a detective
Become a police officer
Complete the academy and get certified.
Excel on patrol
Build strong reports and investigations.
Take investigation courses
Learn interviewing and evidence.
Pass the detective process
Apply and test for promotion.
Specialize or advance
Join specialized units or become a sergeant.
Education and training requirements
Police detectives typically start as patrol officers with a high school diploma or college credits and complete a police academy. Many agencies prefer college degrees, and federal agents usually need a bachelor’s degree.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 3–5 years as a police officer |
Certifications and licenses
- State peace officer certification: Required to serve as a sworn officer.
- Investigative interviewing training: Training in interview techniques.
- Crime scene and evidence training: Courses in evidence handling.
- Specialized investigator training: Courses in homicide, fraud or cybercrime.
Skills to build now
Start with investigative interviewing, evidence collection, and report and warrant writing, and practice persistence and critical thinking. Learning the detective vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Police Officer: Patrol and handle calls.
- Detective: Investigate crimes.
- Specialized or Senior Detective: Handle major cases.
- Sergeant or Lieutenant: Lead investigative units.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Detective training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do detectives need a degree?
Not always for police, but federal agents usually do.
How long does it take to become a detective?
Most people need about 3–5 years as a police officer of training. Police detectives typically start as patrol officers with a high school diploma or college credits and complete a police academy. Many agencies prefer college degrees, and federal agents usually need a bachelor’s degree.
Do you need a degree to be a detective?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for detectives?
Common credentials include State peace officer certification, Investigative interviewing training, Crime scene and evidence training, and Specialized investigator training. Police detectives must be sworn peace officers certified by their state. Federal agents are hired through federal agency selection processes.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 33-3021 (Detectives and criminal investigators).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Detectives and criminal investigators (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.