State Regulations For Private Investigation
Who regulates private investigators?
Which states do not require a license for private investigators?
The biggest location for unlicensed private investigators who actually investigate in other states is Idaho. One of the major database operators called "Merlin" is located in Montana and has their databases located in Idaho, specifically because it's a non-regulatory state. The government, in many cases, some people who operate the databases are trying to control what they do, so they like to operate in a state where they can't be controlled.
Which state has the strictest regulations for private investigators?
In California, in order to get a license, you're required to have a total of 6,000 hours of experience over a minimum of 3 years. It can be 6 000 hours over 6 years, but it has to be a total of 6,000 hours and a minimum of 3 years before you can get a license.
If a private investigator is licensed in one state, does that mean he is licensed in all states?
The licensing in one state does not necessarily allow you to operate in another state. California has reciprocity with about half a dozen states and then they are probably another dozen states that allow you to operate in their state if the investigation initiated in your state and you crossed the state line as far as following the investigation. Some, however require you to register with them as an out of state investigator within 30 days, while some require you to register with them within 10 days. You can usually find those specific requirements are by checking on the Internet with whatever specific state you want to work in.
Is there a network of private investigators?
