Suggestions
- Get an education. Individuals do not need to meet minimum educational requirements to become private investigators. However, detective agencies and clients prefer hiring professionals who have completed some college coursework or a college degree program in criminal justice, police science or another related field.
- Get proper training to perform investigative work. One way to do this is to obtain an entry-level position with a private detective agency and learn the necessary skills on the job. Alternatively, you can obtain investigative skills through jobs in law enforcement, accounting, law, insurance, finance, journalism and other fields.
- Find a mentor. As you begin your career in Alabama, whether you are a novice or experienced detective, work closely with experienced private investigators. They can help you learn about laws and other aspects of conducting investigations in Alabama.
- Contact the police department of the city in which you wish to work to learn if a professional license is required. If you must obtain a permit, you may be asked to submit your fingerprints, undergo a background check and fulfill other requirements.
- Obtain the proper state business licenses if you intend to open a private investigator agency. For information about state business licenses, contact the Alabama State Department of Revenue. Its address is 50 North Ripley, Montgomery, Alabama 36132. Its phone number is 334-242-1170. You can also visit its website at ador.state.al.us.
- Continue developing your skills and knowledge in your field. You might take continuing education courses, enroll in workshops given by professional organizations or read books and other materials on your own.
- Stay up-to-date with changes in legal requirements for private investigators. In 2010, for example, the Alabama legislature introduced a bill that would require private investigators to possess a state license. It would involve passing an examination and completing a minimum of continuing education to maintain the license.
Tips
- Network with other private investigators to learn about jobs.
- Join professional associations, such as the Alabama Investigator's Association, which offer opportunities to help you improve your skills and knowledge.
- Enhance your credibility by obtaining professional certification in the areas in which you work. For example, if you conduct legal investigations for attorneys, you might seek professional certification from the National Association of Legal Investigators.
- If you are interested in enrolling in a private investigator training program, research your options thoroughly. Be sure the program is legitimate. Ask professional investigators for suggestions.
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