How to Become a Private Investigator in Idaho

Private investigators in Idaho have many opportunities for a flourishing career.

If you want to know more, all you need to do is read the info we compiled for you.

Private Investigator Requirements and Responsibilities in Idaho

In Idaho, these experts are regulated by the Idaho Department of Labor.

This indicates that they must hold a license to conduct their work.

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To acquire this license, you must clear a test and fulfill certain criteria.

The criteria for licensing include:

• Being at least 21 years old
• Being a citizen of the United States
• Having a clean personal and criminal record
• Applying for the PI license examination
• Passing the examination
• Acquiring practical experience

Many private investigators opt to join a program to gain practical skills and knowledge.

Previous experience in law enforcement can sometimes replace the need for formal training.

A minimum of 100 hours of experience is required for PI licensure.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Conducting solitary surveillance
• Capturing distant events in high-resolution
• Taking quality photographs from a distance
• Maintaining good health
• Understanding client requirements

Private Investigator Training in Idaho

As mentioned before, there’s no legal requirement for a private investigator to undergo formal training.

However, that doesn’t mean you should overlook this aspect altogether.

Firstly, it can give you the leverage to charge higher fees to your clients, and secondly, it equips you with the skills needed to excel in your role.

As previously stated, courses or credentials in law enforcement can be particularly beneficial.

In some cases, any degree might suffice for this profession, even if it doesn’t seem directly related.

Through specialized training, you’ll discover essential tools of the trade and discern which ones are indispensable and which are outdated.

Of course, every private investigator may tailor their toolkit according to their specific needs, which may include:

• Maps
• Computers, tablets, and related accessories
• Binoculars
• Cameras
• Microphones
• Vehicles like cars or motorcycles

Additionally, you’ll become familiar with the NATO phonetic alphabet and common industry jargon.

Boise State University

This school is located in Boise, ID and it offers a criminal justice program you might be interested in.

To be eligible for this opportunity, you should be a high school graduate from Idaho, whether from a traditional high school or homeschooled, or have completed your GED.

There’s no need to worry about your GPA or financial situation.

You should also be enrolled in or have applied to a sought-after career program at Boise State by the fall semester.

Lastly, make sure you’ve finished a Career Pathway Plan or something similar.

Idaho LAUNCH is a special grant program that offers students an exceptional opportunity to cover 80% of their tuition and fees at an eligible institution, with a maximum cap of $8,000.

So, how much is available to students annually?

In the first year of a program, students can get up to half of the initial grant amount.

However, for programs lasting less than 12 months, students have the option to use the full awarded sum within one year.

This covers 80% of tuition and fees up to $8,000.

Here are some important dates to keep in mind:

• Idaho LAUNCH application opens on October 3
• Initial applications due: November 30
• Round 2 applications due: February 15
• Round 3 applications due: April 15
• Contingent Award letters sent by: December 31, March 31, and May 31
• Idaho LAUNCH application closes on April 15

Becoming Licensed as a Private Investigator in Idaho

Getting your business license in Idaho is pretty simple, and you can do it all online.

The state provides guidance on what rules you need to follow and what kind of business setup suits you best.

Depending on your business type and whether you plan to hire employees, there are different fees involved.

If you’re working as a private investigator, your clients and the companies hiring you might want to know:

• The results of state and federal background checks
• People who can vouch for your character
• Your work and military background, if any
• Whether you’re licensed to carry a firearm

Salaries for Private Investigators in Idaho

All the studying and readiness wouldn’t make much sense if you’re only earning a small amount.

Nationally, private investigators make an average of $50,902 each year.

In Idaho, their yearly earnings typically reach around $47,302.

Check out the table below for cities where salaries tend to be higher.

Regional Salary in Idaho

Private Investigator by State