Detectives

Certification or Licensing

The National Association of Legal Investigators awards the certified legal investigator designation to private detectives and investigators who specialize in cases that deal with negligence or criminal defense investigations. ASIS International offers the professional certified investigator credential. Contact these organizations for more information.

Private detectives and investigators must be licensed in all states except for Idaho, Mississippi, and South Dakota—although some cities or other local governments in these states have their own licensing criteria. In general, states that have licensing require applicants to pass a written examination and file a bond. Depending on the state, applicants may also need to have a minimum amount of experience, either as a police officer or as an apprentice under a licensed private investigator. An additional license is sometimes required for carrying a gun.

The civil service board usually gives both a written and physical examination. The written test is intended to measure a candidate's mental aptitude for police work, while the physical examination focuses on strength, dexterity, and agility.

Other Requirements

In almost all large cities the hiring of police officers must follow local civil service regulations. In such cases candidates generally must be at least 21 years old, U.S. citizens, and within the locally prescribed height and weight limits. Other requirements include 20/20 corrected vision and good hearing. Background checks are often done.