Learn how to apply for a private investigation license in Florida.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) licenses and regulates private investigative firms and individuals in Florida in accordance with Chapter 493, Florida Statutes (F.S.). Private investigators advertise or perform services for consideration as defined in Section 493.6101(17), F.S.
Exemptions
Those who are considered exempt from licensing include:
- "In-house" investigators who are solely, exclusively and regularly employed as an investigator in connection with the business of an employer who does not advertise or provide investigative services for a fee;
- Active law enforcement officers while engaged in their official duties;
- Insurance investigators or adjusters licensed by the Florida Department of Insurance;
- Those who exclusively furnish investigative information about the financial standing, habits and responsibilities of applicants for insurance, indemnity bonds or commercial credit;
- Attorneys in the regular practice of their profession;
- Banks, credit unions, loan companies and consumer credit reporting agencies;
- Persons holding professional licenses in Florida when providing expert advice in their professions; and
- Those providing investigative services solely and exclusively for any United States agency.
License Classifications
For Individuals
Private Investigator
Private Investigator Intern
- Classification: Class "CC"
- Explanation: Any individual who performs private investigative work as an intern under the direction and control of a designated, sponsoring Class “C” licensee or a designated, sponsoring Class “MA” or Class “M” licensee must have a Class “CC” license.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "CC" Private Investigator Intern License
Statewide Firearm License
- Classification: Class "G"
- Explanation: Only Class “C,” Class “CC,” Class “M” or Class “MA” licensees are permitted to bear a firearm, and any such licensee who bears a firearm must also have a Class “G” license.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "G" Statewide Firearm License
Firearms Instructor
Private Investigative Agency Manager
- Classification: Class "M" or "MA"
- Explanation: Any individual who performs the services of a manager for a Class "A" private investigative agency or branch office must have a Class "MA" license. A Class "C" or Class "M" licensee may be designated as the manager, in which case the Class "MA" license is not required.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "M" or "MA" Private Investigative Agency Manager License
For Agencies
Private Investigative Agency
Private Investigative Agency Branch Office
Private Investigative/Security Agency Branch Office
Private Investigation and Firearms
A private investigator or private investigator intern, age 21 years or older, who possesses a Class "G" Statewide Firearm license, may carry a concealed firearm when it is required by their duties and approved by the licensed employing agency.
Firearms are not permitted to be carried openly at any time.
No licensee may carry more than two firearms on their person when performing their duties.
