Career roadmap
How to Become a Private Investigator
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a private investigator, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a private investigator: (1) build experience, (2) learn the laws, (3) get licensed, (4) work for an agency, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–3 years of experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a private investigator
Build experience
Law enforcement, military, insurance or legal work helps.
Learn the laws
Understand privacy, trespass and recording rules.
Get licensed
Meet your state’s requirements.
Work for an agency
Gain field experience.
Advance
Specialize or open your own agency.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma plus experience is typical; many PIs have degrees in criminal justice. Most states require a license, often with experience requirements and an exam.
| 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 | 1–3 years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- State private investigator license: Required in most states.
- Professional Certified Investigator (PCI): ASIS International credential.
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE): Credential for fraud investigations.
- Firearm permit: Required if armed and allowed by law.
Skills to build now
Start with surveillance techniques, records research, and interviewing, and practice patience and discretion. Learning the private investigator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Investigator Trainee: Assist with research and surveillance.
- Licensed Private Investigator: Handle cases.
- Senior or Specialized Investigator: Lead complex cases.
- Agency Owner or Manager: Run an investigation business.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Private Investigator 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
How long does it take to become a private investigator?
Most people need about 1–3 years of experience of training. A high school diploma plus experience is typical; many PIs have degrees in criminal justice. Most states require a license, often with experience requirements and an exam.
Do you need a degree to be a private investigator?
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 private investigators?
Common credentials include State private investigator license, Professional Certified Investigator (PCI), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Firearm permit. Most states license private investigators, often requiring experience, a background check, insurance and an exam. Laws limit surveillance, recording and access to records.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 33-9021 (Private detectives and investigators).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Private detectives and 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.