Becoming a Private Investigator – Do You Have What It Takes?

People often ask what it takes to become a Private Investigator. This isn’t surprising. Private Investigation is a rewarding profession. You are able to give back to your community, making a difference every day by putting a stop to fraud & dishonesty.

Private Investigation can also be a very interesting profession, quite different from most others and a change from the average 9-5 position. Investigators challenge themselves daily, they need to be analytical, observational, and exercise good communication skills constantly. If you possess these skills, are good with a camera, and have the drive to succeed then Private Investigation may be the right fit for you.

The process for becoming a licensed P.I. varies from province-to-province. In Ontario you are required to take a 50-hour course, either in-class or online. The Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services (MCSCS) determines which courses meet the requirements for proper training prior to taking your exam to become licensed. During your training, you will learn about the Private Investigation Industry, The Private Security & Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA), Provincial & Federal Statutes, Criminal & Civil Law, Investigation Techniques, Principals of Ethical Reasoning/Decision-Making, Key Principles of Communication & Interaction, and Self-Management Skills. Once you have completed your training, the next step is to schedule your exam. Once you have successfully completed your exam with a passing grade, you need to apply to the MCSCS for your official license. Once you have received your physical Private Investigator’s license you are eligible to work for any Private Investigation company in Ontario.

Private Investigators come from all different backgrounds. New P.I’s can range from someone looking for a new job that is different from anything they have ever done before, all the way to ex-military & law enforcement officials. Anyone harnessing the skills/qualities mentioned above can be a successful investigator, regardless of their previous experience.