How To Get a Private Investigator License in Michigan

Michigan Private Investigator Licensing Requirements

In Michigan, a license is required for professional investigator or private detective services, including locating individuals and investigating damage or crimes. To apply for a license in the state, contact the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Commercial Services at (517) 241-8720 for licensure information or visit the Michigan Private Investigator License website.

Licensing Authority Contact Information

Corporations, Securities & Commercial Licensing
Licensing Division
PO Box 30018
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone Number: (517) 241-9221
Fax Number: (517) 373-2162
Website

General Licensing Requirements

The following is general licensing information. Please visit the website for specific licensing information, application forms, insurance, fees, and special licensing requirements.

A licensed professional investigator must meet the following requirements:

Is a citizen of the United States
Is not less than 25 years of age
Has a high school education or its equivalent

Has not been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving any of the following:

Dishonesty or fraud
Unauthorized divulging or selling of information or evidence
Impersonation of a law enforcement officer or employee of the United States or a state, or a political subdivision of the United States or a state
Illegally using, carrying, or possessing a dangerous weapon
Two or more alcohol-related offenses
Controlled substances, as defined under the Michigan Public Health Code
Has not been dishonorably discharged from a branch of the United States military service

For not less than three years, has been or is any of the following on a full-time basis:

Lawfully engaged in the professional investigation business as a licensee, registrant, or investigative employee in another state
Lawfully engaged in the investigation business as an investigative employee of a license holder to conduct a professional investigation agency.
An investigator, detective, special agent, intelligence specialist, parole agent, probation officer, or certified police officer employed by any government executive, military, judicial, or legislative agency, or other public authority engaged in investigative or intelligence activities
A graduate of an accredited institution of higher education with a baccalaureate or postgraduate degree in the field of police administration, security management, investigation, law, criminal justice, or computer forensics certificate study that is acceptable to the department
Lawfully engaged in the investigation business as a full-time proprietary or in-house investigator employed by a business or attorney or as an investigative reporter employed by a recognized media outlet, acceptable to the department.
Has posted a $10,000.00 bond or insurance policy provided for in this act.
In the case of a person, firm, partnership, company, limited liability company, or corporation now doing or seeking to do business in this state, the manager shall comply with the qualifications of this section.

Requirements may change, so please visit the website for the most up-to-date instructions related to the licensing application process. Other special licensing requirements such as education, experience, examinations, and insurance may be required. Check the state licensing website for specific details.

The Private Investigator’s Licensing Handbook: How to Get a Private Investigator License in any State

Considering a career as a private investigator? Dive into this book to explore services offered, learn about the work environment, career prospects, and salaries. Discover state-specific licensing requirements, training resources, and industry associations. Already a PI? Use it to learn about licensing in other states. Also, agencies can guide new hires through the licensing process. This edition includes enhanced training recommendations, suggestions for starting a new business, how to join an association, and updated state information. It’s your essential starting point on the path to becoming a private investigator.

Michigan Private Investigator Associations

Once you get licensed, we recommend joining an industry association. Private Investigation industry associations are a great way to network with other investigators and stay in touch with industry changes.

Michigan Council of Private Investigators – This association provides helpful resources for aspiring and experienced private eyes.
Michigan Contract Security Association – This association works to enhance professionalism in the security industry by establishing standards, promoting and promulgating ethics and education, and engaging the political process for the good of the private detective industry.
Michigan Association of Security and Investigative Professionals – Visit the website.

Contact an Existing Private Investigation Agency in Michigan

Contact a Private Investigator Agency – To contact a private investigator in Maine, visit our worldwide directory of investigation agencies. Our directory may also help you find an agency to sponsor your training and certification efforts and help you comply with state licensing requirements.

Additional Information

Training Resources – Improve your chances of obtaining a license in Wisconsin by completing a degree or certification program, training course, or home study course. Learn what options are available to get the investigative knowledge necessary to get licensed.