To become a private investigator in Georgia, you need to meet specific requirements, complete mandatory training, and obtain a license through the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. Here's a breakdown of the steps:
1. Meet the Basic Requirements:
* Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
* Citizenship/Residency: You need to be a U.S. citizen or a registered resident alien with legal authorization to work in the U.S.
* Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
* Moral Character & Background Check: You must be of good moral character, which involves passing a criminal background check. This includes submitting fingerprints through the Georgia Applicant Processing Service (GAPS). Certain felony or misdemeanor convictions may disqualify you.
2. Complete the Mandatory 70-Hour Private Investigator Course:
* This course is a compulsory requirement for all aspiring private investigators in Georgia.
* It covers essential topics like surveillance techniques, legal procedures, ethical standards, laws of arrest, crime scene investigations, courtroom testimony, and report writing.
* The course must be approved by the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies and can be completed in a classroom setting or online.
3. Secure Employment with a Licensed Agency (for Private Detective Employees):
* If you plan to work as a private investigator employee, you must first be hired by a private investigation agency that holds a valid company license in Georgia.
* The hiring agency is responsible for submitting your employee registration application to the Board within 30 days of your employment start date.
4. Apply for Your License:
* Once you've completed the 70-hour course and secured employment (if applicable), you can apply for your private investigator license through the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies.
* The application process involves:
* Submitting a completed, signed, and notarized application form through the GOALS portal.
* Providing proof of completion of the 70-hour course.
* Submitting a $70 application fee.
* Providing fingerprints for a background check.
* If employed, an Affidavit of Employment form completed and signed by the hiring agency.
* Other required documents may include a Secure & Verifiable Document, Affidavit of Citizenship, and immigration documents (if applicable).
5. Pass the State Exam (for opening your own agency):
* If you intend to open your own private detective company, you will need to pass a state-administered exam.
* To qualify for a private detective company license, you'll generally need two years of experience in law enforcement or as a registered private detective employed by a licensed company. Alternatively, a four-year degree in Criminal Justice or a related field can meet the education requirement.
* You will also need to acquire liability insurance.
6. Maintain Your License:
* To keep your private investigator license active in Georgia, you must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years.
The licensing process can take approximately three to six months.