Private detectives tend to enjoy a great deal of professional independence, which is precisely what draws many investigators to the field. These professionals often choose when they work, how many clients they serve and the types of cases they accept. Before they achieve this degree of flexibility, however, private investigators must meet all training and licensing regulations governing their work. These requirements are state-specific, so not all detectives pursue the same certificates, degrees and professional licenses. Prospective PIs' academic choices frame the legality of their work and future career opportunities and earnings, so it is important that they research their options and choose wisely. The following guide outlines the steps to becoming a private detective, what the future might hold for them and how these factors interrelate.
What Does a Detective Do?
[dig-deeper subtitle="Detective Career Basics" description="Private detectivesconduct investigations in multiple areas, ranging from finding missing personsto discovering the cause of a fire, or recovering stolen property toinvestigating identity theft. They conduct casework, interview witnesses,perform surveillance, and review public and government records to collectinformation. Cases may at times require investigators to testify in court orwork alongside law enforcement." panel_subtitle="Detective Careers In-Depth" ]
Private detectives are licensed professionals who offer a wide range of investigative services. They may be self-employed, work for an agency or subcontract with government organizations to investigate crimes or threats—at the state, local or national level. Their career duties vary, but can include determining the credibility of a witness; placing individuals under surveillance to determine their identity, location, affiliations, character or movements; finding owners of abandoned property; securing evidence for use in civil or criminal cases; investigating threats of violence; or identifying the cause an accident, injury, fire or loss. They may carry firearms, work undercover and testify in court cases.
[/dig-deeper]Detective Salaries & Job Growth
Detective Salaries Across the US
Private detectives earned an average national salary just north of $45,000 in 2015, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earning potential can vary by specialization, industry, professional background, education and location. Use the map below to explore the salaries of private investigators and detectives in the US.
