Private Investigator licenses in Florida are handled by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Licensing Services. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing, licenses and regulates the private investigative industry per Chapter 493 of Florida’s state statutes.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
P.O. Box 5767
Tallahassee, FL 32314-5767
1-800- HELP-FLA (1-800- 435-7352)
Website
The Florida Division of Licensing website provides extensive information that will help you get a private investigator license in Florida. On the website, you can read an overview of licensing requirements, renew your existing license, change your address, search for a licensee, and view the state laws that govern private detective licenses.
The following is general licensing information. Please visit the website above for specific licensing information, application forms, insurance requirements, fees, and special licensing requirements.
• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Have no disqualifying criminal history
• Be of good moral character
• Have no history of mental illness
• Have no history of use of illegal drugs
• Have no history of alcoholism
• Have two years of experience (which can be gained through first obtaining a Class CC Private Investigator Intern License)
Other Requirements
Other special requirements such as education, experience, examinations, and insurance may be required. Check the state licensing website for more information.
Professional associations are an excellent resource for those interested in pursuing an investigative career and those already working in the business. P.I. associations provide access to invaluable resources such as training and continuing education opportunities, networking events and conferences, and legislative lobbying power. They can be a source of business through information and case sharing.
I highly recommend joining a state association and becoming active – running for a board position, speaking at meetings, participating in volunteer activities, and more.
The following are the most prominent groups in the state:
Florida Association of Licensed Investigators – Established in 1994, the FALI is Florida’s largest private investigation association. The FALI website provides up-to-date information and news on the investigation industry and extensive resources for existing and aspiring private eyes.
Florida Association of Private Investigators – A professional organization created to provide a voice for licensed private investigators and related professionals in Florida and throughout the United States. FAPI offers its members extensive networking opportunities with other experienced investigators nationwide and a place to share referrals, questions, sources of information, and more in a friendly, non-competitive, yet professional atmosphere through our members-only discussion group and forums.
Once ready for employment, view a list of private investigators and investigation agencies in our Florida directory. Contact each agency in your area and ask if there are any open positions.
Training Resources – Improve your chances of getting licensed by completing a professional degree program, training course, or home study course. Learn what options are available to get the investigative knowledge necessary to get licensed and begin your career.
Considering a career as a private investigator? Dive into this book to explore services offered, learn about the work environment, career prospects, and salaries. Discover state-specific licensing requirements, training resources, and industry associations. Already a PI? Use it to learn about licensing in other states. Also, agencies can guide new hires through the licensing process. This edition includes enhanced training recommendations, suggestions for starting a new business chapter, and updated state info. It’s your essential starting point on the path to becoming a private investigator.
If you have any questions about how to get a private investigator license in Florida, please post a comment below.
