How To Get Your Private Investigator License In Utah

History of Private Investigator Licensing in Utah

Private investigation has a rich history in the state of Utah, and the licensing of private investigators has played a significant role in regulating the industry and ensuring the protection of both clients and the public. Prior to 1995, the State of Utah did not have a statewide private investigator license. Instead, individual cities within Utah had their own licensing criteria, which led to confusion and non-conformity in the industry. Private detectives had to navigate multiple licensing requirements across different locations, making it challenging to keep track of the necessary permits.

This decentralized approach to licensing created inconsistencies and made it difficult for private investigators to operate seamlessly across the state. The absence of a statewide licensing system also made it harder to establish uniform standards and regulations for the profession.

Early Years: 1995 Regulation Begins

The licensing of private investigators in Utah can be traced back to 1995 when the PIAU (Private Investigators Association of Utah) recognized the need for a more streamlined and efficient licensing process, sponsored the Private Investigators Regulation Act. During this time, concerns regarding the credibility and professionalism of private investigators led to the implementation of licensing requirements. These requirements aimed to establish a framework for individuals to enter and practice in the field of private investigation statewide in Utah, promoting accountability and ethical standards.

How to Become a Private Investigator in Utah

The following information will explain how to become a private investigator and get an apprentice license in Utah.

Utah Private Investigator Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed private investigator in Utah, individuals must meet specific requirements set forth by the Utah Department of Public Safety. These state regulations and requirements include the following eligibility requirements to become professional investigators:

1. Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old (Apprentice license) or 21 years old (Registrant and Agency license) to be eligible for a private investigator license.

2. Background Check: An applicant must not have been a convicted felon, convicted of an act illegally using, carrying, or possessing a dangerous weapon, convicted of an act of personal violence or force, convicted of threatening to commit an act of personal violence or force, an act of constituting dishonesty or fraud, an act of moral turpitude within the past 10 years, placed on probation or parole, named in an outstanding warrant, or convicted in illegally obtaining or disclosing private, controlled, or protected records.

3. Cost: Application Process - Apprentice & Registrant Utah Application Fee: $143.25 Agency: $243.25 Payment for license fee can be made by credit card or check or money order.

4. Required Insurance: Apprentice & Registrant: $10,000 surety bond. Private-investigator-license.com has found the best deal for the surety bond here. We do not receive a commission.

5. Required Education: No requirement. Criminal justice degree is not required. Utah does not have a private investigator course.

6. Required Experience:

   1. Apprentice License: There is no required experience to obtain the Utah private investigator apprentice license. Private investigator training is conducted after the private investigator apprentice receives their PI license. The applicant is required to search and find a private investigator agency to sponsor them and work under in order to obtain the apprentice private investigation licensing. If you are in search of a Utah Private Investigator Agency, Salt Lake Investigations is a Private Detective Agency that can help answer any questions that you might have.

   2. Registrant License: Minimum 2,000 hours of investigative experience / hours of training.

   3. Agency License: Minimum 5,000 hours of investigative experience requirements. Achieving an Agency license can take years of experience.

7. Examination: Written exam is not required.

8. No prior experience as a police officer is necessary.

Apprentice License: an apprentice may only work under the direct supervision and guidance of an agency, and may not advertise the licensed apprentice's services or conduct investigations for the general public; employ other private investigators; or obtain information from the Utah DMV or DL Division except the apprentice may utilize information from these agencies for a legitimate business need and under the direct supervision and guidance of a licensed agency. Some agencies might hire private investigative interns.

Registrant License: a registrant, may only perform PI work as an employee of, or as an independent contractor for, an agency and may not advertise the licensed registrant's services or conduct investigations for the general public; employ other private investigators or hire them as independent contractors.

Continuing Education Requirement: Not Required

A registrant or apprentice whose license has been suspended or revoked shall immediately notify the agency which supervises the registrant or apprentice of the action.

It's important to note that Utah's laws and regulations regarding private investigators may be subject to different interpretations or changes over time. Therefore, we always advise individuals to verify the information we provide with their local and state authorities. The information presented here is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For any legal matters or specific concerns, we strongly recommend consulting with a professional attorney who specializes in the laws and regulations governing private investigation in Utah.

How much can a Private Investigator Apprentice earn in Utah?

The average starting salary for a new private investigator apprentice is around $20 per hour. To become an apprentice, you will need to contact Private Investigator Agencies in Utah and inquire about sponsorship opportunities. Most Private Investigator Agencies hire apprentices as sub-contractors. As the apprentice gains more experience performing investigative services, private investigator apprentices can earn between $25 and $30 per hour in Utah. Only a small number of private investigator apprentices receive an average salary, the vast majority are paid an hourly rate for private investigation services.