Q&A for How to Be a Private Investigator

Return to Full Article

Coming soon

Add New Question

Question

Do private investigators sometimes investigate murder?

Community Answer

Yes, but mostly on rare occasions. This usually occurs on cold cases, which are ones that weren't solved by the police.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 30
Question

Which course would I want to study?

Community Answer

Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement work great for becoming a private investigator.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 26
Question

How do I get a private detective license?

Community Answer

Typically, you will need to pass an exam, and sometimes a short training course. You should ask the city Department of Public Safety to find out more about your area's requirements.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 28
Question

Can I investigate someone without experience?

Community Answer

The short answer is "yes." However, if you are asking if you can make money because you have a hobby interest in amateur sleuthing, the answer is "no." You need a license in most areas to provide private investigator services. Also, licensed private investigators can do surveillance on legitimate cases without being arrested for stalking, and can access certain databases the general public cannot. That said, everyone starts somewhere. No experience means you have to be aware that many potential clients will want someone with years of experience.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 5 Helpful 33
Question

Can being a previous drug user hinder your ability in becoming a private investigator?

Community Answer

It will if you were criminally charged and you want to work for a company. You also need to pass a drug test at many P.I. firms.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 11 Helpful 20
Question

Do I need a car to be a private investigator?

Community Answer

Without a doubt! A private investigator without a car would not find employment.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 13
Question

Can private detectives work with the police on cases?

Community Answer

Do not interfere with police investigations. This may result in you being charged with obstruction. If you develop positive working relationships with the police department ahead of time and prove useful, they may choose to request your assistance.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 12
Question

What subjects do I need to study to become a private investigator?

Community Answer

Study legal studies, criminology, law enforcement, psychology, etc. Talk to your careers counselor for advice tailored to your school's actual subjects.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 12