Private Investigator - Requirements

Requirements

Many jurisdictions require PIs to be licensed, and they may or may not carry firearms depending on local laws. Some are ex-police officers, some are former law enforcement agents, some are ex-spies and some are ex-military, some used to work in a private military company, some are former bodyguards and security guards, although many are not. While PIs may investigate criminal matters, most do not have police powers, and as such they have only the powers of citizen's arrest and detainment that any other citizen has. They are expected to keep detailed notes and to be prepared to testify in court regarding any of their observations on behalf of their clients. Great care is required to remain within the scope of the law, otherwise the investigator may face criminal charges. Irregular hours may also be required when performing surveillance work.

UK

In 2001, the government passed the licensing of private investigators and private investigation firms in UK and Wales over to SIA (security industry authority act), who acted as the regulatory body from then on. However, due to the cutbacks of this SIA, licensing of private investigators in the UK was halted indefinitely. As of the moment there are no governmental backed authorities in the UK to license private investigators.

Indonesia

In other countries licensing of private investigators does not exist and many organisations may set themselves up without a license. Indonesia is one example where PI licenses are not recognized. However, it is still legal to have other company licensing that allows organisations involved in PI work to operate. Licenses as consultants for gathering information and as security specialists is one method for legal operation in the context of Indonesia. Likewise PIs in Indonesia can and do obtain PI qualifications from overseas.