Private Investigator

A private investigator is any person who engages in the business or accepts employment to obtain or furnish information with reference to one or more of the following: 1) Crime or wrongs done or threatened against the United States or any state or territory of the United States, 2) The identity, habits, conduct, business, occupation, honesty, integrity, credibility, knowledge, trustworthiness, efficiency, loyalty, activity, movement, whereabouts, affiliations, associations, transactions, acts, reputations or character of any person, 3) The location, disposition or recovery of lost or stolen property, 4) The cause or responsibility for fires, libels, losses, accidents, damages or injuries to persons or to property, or 5) The securing of evidence to be used before any court, board, Commission, officer or investigating committee.

Requirements

Licensing Requirements

  1. Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
    2. Must be a citizen of the United States or a resident alien.
    3. Successful completion of a background check through IdentoGO.
    • For information, including locations, scheduling, and guidance for out-of-state applicants, visit https://www.identogo.com.
    • An applicant may be disqualified from licensure, subject to the discretion of the Commissioner, if convicted of offenses listed in Tenn. Rules & Regulations 1175-01-.04(6).

Examination Requirements

Successfully complete the Private Investigator examination through PSI. In addition to scheduling an examination, you can view the exam bulletin and find more information about the testing process on their website at https://test-takers.psiexams.com.

Company Affiliation

A private investigator is no longer required to be affiliated with a private investigation company. If you are affiliated with a private investigation company, your required ID card will be sent to the investigation company upon approval.

Private Investigator Apprentice

Upon request, an apprentice status can be granted for up to 6 months, provided the applicant is sponsored by a licensed investigative company and working under the direct supervision of a licensed investigator.

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Private Investigator Application” online at core.tn.gov. The fee for an initial application is $250.