Are you interested in becoming a private investigator in Missouri? Do you have a passion for solving mysteries and uncovering the truth? In this guide, we will discuss the steps you need to take to become a licensed private investigator and the services you can offer as a PI.
Private investigators, also known as PIs, play a crucial role in society. They help individuals, businesses, and law enforcement agencies gather information and evidence for various purposes. As a private investigator in Missouri, you can offer a wide range of services, including:
With a diverse range of services, you can choose to specialize in a particular area or offer a variety of investigative services to your clients. Additionally, private investigators in Missouri have the opportunity to work with law enforcement agencies and attorneys, providing valuable assistance in solving cases.
To become a licensed private investigator, you must follow these steps:
To be eligible for a private investigator license in Missouri, you must be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and have no felony convictions. You must also be a US citizen or a legal resident.
Missouri does not have any specific training requirements for private investigators. However, it is recommended to complete a training program in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field to gain the necessary knowledge and skills for the job.
Before applying for a private investigator license, you must have at least three years of experience working as a private investigator or in a related field, such as law enforcement or insurance investigations.
To obtain a private investigator license in Missouri, you must pass a written exam administered by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. The exam covers topics such as state laws, ethics, and investigative techniques.
Once you have met all the requirements, you can submit an application for a private investigator license to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. The application must include proof of your experience, education, and training, as well as a background check and the required fees.
Missouri requires private investigators to have liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000. This insurance protects you and your clients in case of any errors or omissions during an investigation.
Private investigator licenses in Missouri must be renewed every three years. To renew your license, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education courses and pay the required fees.
As a licensed private investigator, you can offer a variety of services to your clients. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common services offered by PIs in Missouri.
Infidelity investigations are one of the most requested services by private investigators in Missouri. If a client suspects their partner of cheating, they can hire a PI to gather evidence and confirm their suspicions. This may involve surveillance, background checks, and other investigative techniques.
Private investigators can also conduct asset searches to help individuals and businesses locate hidden assets. This can be useful in divorce cases, business disputes, and other legal matters.
Missing Persons Investigations
Private investigators can assist in locating missing persons, such as runaway children, long-lost relatives, or individuals who have disappeared without a trace. They use various techniques, such as skip tracing and surveillance, to gather information and locate the missing person.
Insurance companies often hire private investigators to investigate suspicious claims and gather evidence of fraud. This can include surveillance, background checks, and other investigative techniques to uncover the truth.
AOE/COE Investigations
AOE/COE investigations, also known as “arising out of employment” and “course of employment” investigations, are conducted to determine if an injury or illness is work-related. Private investigators can gather evidence and interview witnesses to help insurance companies and employers make informed decisions about workers’ compensation claims.
Surveillance is a common investigative technique used by private investigators in Missouri. It involves discreetly observing and documenting a person’s activities to gather evidence for a case. This can be useful in infidelity investigations, insurance fraud cases, and other situations.
Private investigators can also assist in alimony investigations, where they gather evidence to prove that a former spouse is cohabiting with a new partner. This can affect the amount of alimony paid and help individuals save money in the long run.
Elder abuse is a growing concern in Missouri, and private investigators can play a crucial role in uncovering cases of abuse and protecting vulnerable individuals. They can gather evidence of physical, emotional, or financial abuse and help bring abusers to justice.
Background checks are another common service offered by private investigators in Missouri. They can provide detailed reports on an individual’s criminal history, employment history, credit history, and more. This can be useful for employers, landlords, and individuals looking to hire a caregiver or enter into a business partnership.
Skip tracing is the process of locating individuals who have “skipped town” or disappeared without a trace. Private investigators use various techniques, such as database searches, surveillance, and interviews, to locate these individuals for their clients.
Becoming a private investigator in Missouri can be a rewarding career for those with a passion for solving mysteries and uncovering the truth. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can obtain a private investigator license and offer a variety of services to your clients.
Whether you choose to specialize in a particular area or offer a range of investigative services, you can make a valuable contribution to society as a licensed private investigator.
Bond Investigations has earned the reputation as a top-tier personal investigation agency extending its reach throughout United States. Renowned as a leading investigative force nationwide, we have established elevated benchmarks for service excellence in the field.
