Learning how to get started as a private investigator can be a bit complex.
Private investigation is a very lucrative job, and in the United States, there are thousands of people who have decided to make investigations in their entire career. While the industry is growing at a fast rate, learning how to get started as a private investigator can be a bit complex, as every state has its own requirements for certification and licensing. In today’s blog piece, we will dive into what you need to become a private investigator and the steps you will have to take to start your own career as one. Read on to learn more!
Know Your State’s Private Investigator Requirements
Since every state is different and each have different types of requirements, it is important to find out upfront what you will need to move on. You’ll have to research the regulations and laws of your state to figure out all of the requirements. Every state offers different rules regarding training, pre-licensing curriculum, agreements on reciprocity, and continuing education.
Meet the Requirements That Are Needed
As outlined above, make sure that you’re in line with whatever the general requirements your state needs. This includes years of education and experience or any other licenses and certifications like concealed carry permits. Since some states will only license you with experience, you might want to get to know local investigators who can help show you the ropes and offer on-the-job training. Likewise, if you do not have the right level of education, you will want to focus on getting that before you worry about any licensing regulations. Remember, you should have some questions about your specific state’s requirements or professional development courses.
Get Your Private Investigator
License
Once you’ve got all the pieces set in place for your state requirements, work towards getting that license! Again, how this works will really depend on the state and the licensing agency, but in a lot of cases, you’ll have a specific number of hours from an approved training provider, and various states require that you pass a final exam in order to get licensed. As certified security and private investigation company, we offer and provide training courses and license training so you can work legally in Maryland.
Pick an Area of Expertise
While it is not a requirement, finding a specialization in the field of expertise could be beneficial as you get your career as a private investigation off the floor. Keeping in mind that specialization might be in either of the kinds of clients you take or the investigations that you perform. Do a bit of research for a more broad idea of all the different kinds of areas you could find some work in, or check out our website.
Picking an Private Investigator Agency
Once you’re licensed, you will have to make the decision: do you want to work alone or for a larger agency? While there isn’t a real right or wrong answer, keep in mind that working by yourself requires more effort up front. Working with a larger agency or under another, more seasoned group of detectives has its perks if you’re able to get mentored and grow your level of expertise underneath somebody else with a storied background and career. ICS Security Services has an entire crew of private investigators, so consider us for an agency!
FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY GUARDS AND PROTECTION SERVICES, CONTACT ICS SECURITY SERVICES TODAY
ICS Security Services is a trusted and reliable security company dedicated to protecting you and your business. Our fully trained staff serves Maryland all throughout Baltimore, Catonsville, Columbia, Bethesda, White Marsh, Gaithersburg, Annapolis, Towson, and Hunt Valley. We are here to provide you with the best services and products when you need them.
For a bit more information on how we can assist you, visit our website or give a call at 410-719-8796.