Alabama Private Investigator License

An Alabama private investigator license is usually provided to companies and parties who run investigative services. They work for different types of clients (For example, for insurance companies or individual clients.).

So, if you’ve decided to pursue this career and aren’t sure where to start, then keep reading. This article will cover all the information you need to get an Alabama secret investigator permit.

Do private investigators need licensure in Alabama?

Independent inspectors have had authorization in the state since 2014. You need the authorization to provide PI services. The licensure process is pretty easy in this area. You should meet certain criteria and pass a test offered by the state’s Private Investigation Board.

The mandatory exam is twice a year. Its purpose is to assess the abilities of potential field inspectors.

Alabama private investigator license requirements

To begin your PI career, you have to meet the following basic requirements:

• Age – you have to be at least 21 years old.
• Criminal Record – have a clear criminal and personal background.
• Citizenship – you should be a US citizen.
• Mental Status – unless your mental condition has since been pronounced competent, you must not have been declared mentally incompetent.
• Written Exam — this is a PSI-administered written exam that you must take after submitting your application.

Some requirements aren’t mandatory, but would help you on your journey:

• Degree – while you’re not obligated to have a degree, pursuing study in criminal justice or law enforcement will significantly improve your skills.
• Experience – you also don’t have to have previous experience to apply for licensure.
• Insurance – insurance is also not required, but it is one of the essentials for your future business.

Charges and documents needed for a PI permit in AL

The $125 application fee and $100 exam charge must be paid in advance. You have to submit a photo of yourself as well as three sets of fingerprints. You must also provide proof of passing a Board-approved examination.

Your certificate is valid for two years from the date of issuance. To maintain it, you have to apply before the expiration date. To continue running your business, fill out a renewal form, pay the $300 renewal fee, and complete at least 16 contact hours (two of which must be in ethics).

If you make the renewal more than 30 days after the expiration date, then you will receive an extra $200 late renewal fee.

Investigator salary information

Independent inspectors earned an average yearly income of $66,870 in 2020, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the next three years, Projector Central predicts a 6.4% growth in job postings.

Because of the high crime rate and low pay, starting a secret inspector profession in Alabama is worth the risk.

States that do not require a license

Some states still don’t require a certificate, if you don’t feel the necessity of getting one. There are 5 states that don’t require it: Alaska, Idaho, Mississippi, South Dakota and Wyoming.

Keep in mind that although licensure is not obligatory in those areas, certain cities do have their own PI licensing requirements.