How to Become a Private Investigator in Georgia

Are you interested in building a career as a private investigator in Georgia?

If the answer is yes, you should know you have to take some crucial steps before being able to work.

To learn more about those steps, check out the guide below.

Private Investigator Requirements and Responsibilities in Georgia

In this state, private investigators are overseen by the Georgia Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies.

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This means they must have a license to work.

To get one, you need to pass a test and meet some simple requirements.

Here are the rules:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a citizen of the United States
• Have a clean record, both personally and criminally
• Apply for the PI test
• Pass the test
• Get some experience

Many private investigators decide to take a course to learn more and gain experience.

If you’ve worked in law enforcement, you might not need to take a class.

You’ll need at least 100 hours of experience to be a PI.

Your main tasks will include:

• Keeping an eye on people
• Taking clear pictures from a distance
• Staying healthy
• Understanding what your clients need

Private Investigator Training in Georgia

In Georgia, to become a private detective, you must finish a fundamental training program.

You can do this within six months of starting your job, and it has to be from an approved provider in the state.

The training has 70 hours of classroom sessions covering:

• History of the industry
• Criminal law
• Search and seizure procedures
• Crime scene investigation techniques
• Interviewing witnesses and suspects
• Surveillance methods

If you decide to carry a firearm, you’ll also need to complete the Firearm Training Curriculum for Handguns course.

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the state laws and regulations concerning both individual private investigators and investigative companies.

As mentioned earlier, taking classes or having experience in law enforcement can be extremely beneficial.

In some cases, any degree could suffice for this role, even if it seems unrelated.

Through specialized training, you’ll figure out what tools are essential and what’s just extra baggage.

Every PI might have their unique toolkit, but generally, you’ll need things like:

• Maps
• Computers, tablets, and related gear
• Binoculars
• Cameras
• Microphones
• Vehicle(s)

You’ll also pick up useful skills like the NATO phonetic alphabet and common jargon.

PI Education

This institution provides a course with a duration of 70 hours.

This is a pre-licensing course.

Students will accumulate 70 credit hours by its completion.

The course is offered fully online.

To enroll, you’ll have to pay the $399 tuition fee.

Some of the topics taught in this course are:

• The Fundamentals Of Georgia Criminal Procedure
• An Introduction To The Georgia Rules Of Evidence
• Courtroom Testimony
• Sources Of Information
• Surveillance & Observation
• Undercover Operations

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This training academy provides many online courses tailored for aspiring private investigators.

You can enroll in several classes designed to enhance your investigative skills.

Additionally, there are modules specifically aimed at helping you pass the licensing exam.

The prices for each course vary, between $99 and $350.

Some of the classes are meant for those who need to continue their education.

Becoming Licensed as a Private Investigator in Georgia

You’ll need to pay between $52 to $60 for a digital fingerprint scan.

Moreover, when you send your application to the Georgia Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies by mail.

Don’t forget to include the state fee of $70.

You will need to provide:

• Proof of your residency
• Proof of citizenship
• Certifications and permits for the weapons you intend to carry

Additionally, you must show proof of completing the necessary certification courses.

Once your private investigator license is approved, you will have to keep it valid.

This means you need to renew your license.

In this state, private investigators must fulfill 16 hours of continuing education obligations each year to maintain their license.

Salaries for Private Investigators in Georgia

After getting your PI license, you will be ready to work.

But, you are probably wondering how much you will earn.

The salaries in this state vary and are based on your level of expertise and location.

Usually, Georgia private detectives and investigators earn about $49,402 per year.

As you create a solid client base and accumulate several years of experience, you could potentially reach $59802 per year.

Regional Salary in Georgia

Private Investigator by State