Frequently Asked Questions

A private investigator also known as a PI, Private Detective or Private Eye. Is someone that is hired to undertake an investigation. Most states require PIs to be trained and licensed. Investigators often have law enforcement and military background.

Law Firms, corporations, insurance companies, private parties and entities not involved with the government or police all have reason to procure the services of a private investigator.

It is important you perform your due diligence before hiring a company. You should do the following: ask for and check references, obtain their license number and check with the state licensing board to make sure they are current and have no complaints. It may also be a good idea to check for complaints with the local Better Business Bureau.

Most states require a private investigator to be licensed. Some states have very strict requirements to obtain an investigative license while others have no requirements. The following states do not have statewide licensing requirements; Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Mississippi, and South Dakota.

Many states have online public databases you can use to verify an agency’s or individual’s investigation license. Additionally, many of these databases will allow you to search for a valid private investigator license for agencies and or individuals. Please see a partial list of publicly searchable investigator license databases.

In the majority of cases, private investigators will charge an hourly rate. Hourly rates can vary. Nearly all investigator will ask for a retainer fee before taking a case. It is unlikely you will find an investigator willing to do just one or two hours of investigative work.

Although PIs have access to information the general public can not obtain, they must obey the same basic laws as ordinary citizens. Three big things they can’t do: Pose as law enforcement officers, Wiretapping, Obtain cell phone records via pre-texting.