Is a private investigator license required for working at a PI firm or only for owning one?

What if someone does investigations for others without using their own business name?

Let’s take the questions in order:

1.) First, you must check with the state bureau that licenses private investigators in your area. Many states allow individuals to work under a licensed PI without requiring a license. However, some counties or states may require registration if you do not hold a PI license.

2.) You must obtain a license if you want to own your own PI firm.

3.) Operating without a business name can be very risky. Furthermore, having someone work under you without a license or using your company name can expose you both to fines and/or criminal penalties.

After 43 years in the industry, we all know that without a license, you will not succeed.