Check your state or country’s private investigator licensing requirements
Meet the minimum age requirement
Have a clean criminal record or meet background check standards
Complete required education, training, or experience hours
Gain relevant work experience in law enforcement, military, security, or investigations if required
Complete any mandated pre-licensing courses
Pass the required licensing exam, if applicable
Submit fingerprints and authorize a background check
Prepare and submit the license application
Pay the required application and licensing fees
Obtain any required insurance or surety bond
Register your business, if operating as an agency or sole proprietor
Renew the license on time and complete continuing education, if required