It's no mystery why private investigation is intriguing work. Investigators answer questions others cannot. The work requires clever thinking, a thorough knowledge of how public records work, accounting and forensics skills, and knowledge of how to investigate things within the restraints of the law. Most often, the job requires a license and some degree of legal or educational experience.

Understand the Job

Private investigation is demanding work, and it's nothing like the cloak-and-dagger stuff you see in the movies. A private investigator's job is to find and analyze information. This includes mining for computer data and combing through piles of public records. A private investigator's caseload can include gathering evidence of infidelity, finding someone who does not wish to be found and figuring out how someone's identity was stolen. Investigators also double as process servers, delivering legal documents such as summonses, subpoenas and other legal documents.

Go to School

Education is not always required, but it is common and it helps. Private investigators generally have bachelor's degrees in criminal justice or police science, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This provides a good knowledge of evidence collection, public records and legal proceedings. Experience in computer forensics and accounting can help too, especially for investigators who deal with fraud.

Earn a License

Check your state's requirements for licensure. Most states require investigators to be licensed, but the qualifications vary greatly. Some are stringent; in California, for example, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have 6,000 hours of education in police science, justice or criminal law. They must pass a criminal background check and a two-hour written test. In all states, investigators who wish to carry firearms must meet additional qualifications.

Source:

Bureau of Labor Statistics

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