PI LICENSING: Florida

[Legal Affairs]

NO LICENSE IS REQUIRED
IF you fall into the following:


(*) Exemptions based on CHAPTER 493:

1. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any individual solely, exclusively, and regularly employed as an unarmed investigator or recovery agent in connection with the business of her or his employer, when there exists an employer-employee relationship. 493.6102-3
   
   
2. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any unarmed individual engaged in security services who is employed exclusively to work on the premises of her or his employer, or in connection with the business of her or his employer, when there exists an employer-employee relationship. 493.6102-4
   
   
3. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any person or bureau whose business is exclusively the furnishing of information concerning the business and financial standing and credit responsibility of persons or the financial habits and financial responsibility of applicants for insurance, indemnity bonds, or commercial credit. 493.6102-5
   
   
4. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: An attorney at law in performing his or her duties; 493.6102-6
   
   
5. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: An attorney's assistant (or employed private investigator) in performing his or her duties (for the licensed attorney) 493.6102-3
   
   
6. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any person or firm that solely and exclusively conducts genealogical research, or otherwise traces lineage or ancestry, by primarily utilizing public records and historical information and databases. 493.6102-14
   
   
7. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any bank or bank holding company, credit union, or small loan company operating pursuant to chapters 516 and 520; any consumer credit reporting agency regulated under 15 U.S.C. ss. 1681 et seq.; or any collection agency not engaged in repossessions or to any permanent employee thereof. 493.6102-7
   
   
8. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any person who holds a professional license under the laws of this state when such person is providing services or expert advice in the profession or occupation in which that person is so licensed. 493.6102-8
   
   
9. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any security agency or private investigative agency, and employees thereof, performing contractual security or investigative services solely and exclusively for any agency of the United States. 493.6102-9
   
   
10. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any person duly authorized by the laws of this state to operate a central burglar or fire alarm business. However, such persons are not exempt to the extent they perform services requiring licensure or registration under this chapter. 493.6102-10
    
    
11. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any person or company retained by a food service establishment to independently evaluate the food service establishment including quality of food, service, and facility. However, such persons are not exempt to the extent they investigate or are retained to investigate criminal or suspected criminal behavior on the part of the food service establishment employees. 493.6102-11
    
    
12. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any person who is a school crossing guard employed by a third party hired by a city or county and trained in accordance with s. 316.75. 493.6102-12
    
    
13. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any individual employed as a security officer by a religious institution as defined in s. 199.183(2)(a) to provide security on the institution property, and who does not carry a firearm in the course of her or his duties. 493.6102-13
    
    
14. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any licensed Florida-certified public accountant who is acting within the scope of the practice of public accounting as defined in chapter 473. 493.6102-15
    
    
15. NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: Any individual who is an "officer" as defined in s. 943.10(14) or is a law enforcement officer of the United States Government, while such local, state, or federal officer is engaged in her or his official duties or when performing off-duty security activities approved by her or his superiors 493.6102-1
    
    
    PERSONAL NOTE: FOR OTHER "INTERPRETATIONS", click here: http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthrea...&threadid=3558
    
    (*) = Clarification/Interpretaion

OTHER CLARIFICATIONS:

*NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: This chapter shall not apply to a person or corporation which employs persons who do private (investigations) work in connection with the affairs of such employer only and who have an employer-employee relationship with such employer. Neither such persons or corporations nor their employees shall be required to register or be licensed under this chapter, although such persons or corporations or their employees may elect to be licensed under this chapter. 493.6102-3

*NO LICENSE NEEDED FOR: A peace officer employed on a full-time basis by a federal, state, county, or local law enforcement agency who contracts directly with an employer to work during his or her off-duty hours and whose off-duty employment is conducted on an independent contractor basis with another employer other than a peace officer engaged in the private detective or private security business or a private detective or private security agency. 493.6102-1

(*) = Clarification/Interpretaion

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OTHER LEGAL OPINIONS POSTED BY THE STATE:

LEGAL OPINION 95-8

QUESTION:

Does an out-of-state private investigative agency, that advertises via computer services such as the Internet and other national computer networks, require licensure under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes?

RESPONSE:

Out-of-state entities advertising private investigative services on national computer networks are not subject to the Division's purview unless they advertise as performing, or conduct, private investigative activities in Florida.

---

LEGAL OPINION 95-32

QUESTION:

Why does Section 493.6116(3), Florida Statutes, require the 50-mile radius requirement regarding sponsorship of interns?

RESPONSE:

The legislature's intent in imposing the 50-mile radius requirement is clearly stated:
Internship is intended to serve as a learning process. Sponsors shall assume training status by providing direction and control of interns.

To achieve that expressed intent, the legislature mandated that sponsors "shall only sponsor interns whose place of business is within a 50-mile distance of the sponsor's place of business and shall not allow interns to operate independently of such direction and control."

The language of the statute specifies that sponsors shall only sponsor interns whose place of business is within a 50 mile distance of the sponsor's place of business. By that language, the residence address of the intern in relation to the sponsoring agency is irrelevant. The language only requires that the office from which the intern routinely operates is within a 50 mile radius of the place of business of the sponsor. Additionally, statutory language does not prohibit the performance of regulated activities by interns outside the 50 mile radius so long as the regular place of business is within 50 miles. Interns may conduct regulated activities anywhere in state if the regular place of business makes them accessible for instruction, direction and control by the sponsor.

The statute requires that the office from which the intern in fact and routinely operates is within a 50 mile radius of the sponsor's place of business. In order to acquire the training requisite to obtaining the "C" or "E" license, the intern must in fact and on a routine basis be physically under the direction and control of his sponsor. "Physically" contemplates in-person contact on a routine basis, with the sponsor and is not accomplished by contact solely by telephone, fax, or computer. Additionally, the statute does not prohibit the occasional performance of regulated activities by interns outside the 50 mile radius if the intern is in fact and routinely operating from an office within a 50 mile radius of his sponsor.

---

Other Legal Opinions and Exemptions:
http://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/

Statutes:
http://archive.flsenate.gov/statutes...EChapter%20493

Other forms:
http://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/FOR...equest493.html


SOURCE:


http://archive.flsenate.gov/statutes...EChapter%20493

TO APPLY FOR A LICENSE:
CLICK HERE: Application Link Page

VERIFY A PI LICENSE:

http://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/index.html

Main Home Page for Florida PI Licensing:
http://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/inv...ons/index.html

Class “CC” Private Investigator Intern Training Classes:
http://www.fldoe.org/cie/intern.asp

Drivers License Verification (Including Suspended):
https://www6.hsmv.state.fl.us/DLChec...es/dlCheck.jsp

[Legal Affairs]

Originally posted by Jim Ley
In Florida the Secretary of State, Division of Licensing regulates the private investigation, security and recovery industries, as well as regulating concealed weapons permits and sweepstakes. They issue licenses to qualified individuals and agencies. Each license carries a particular letter designation, as follows:

Class A - Private investigation agency license
Class AA - Private investigation branch office
Class AB - Private investigation / security agency branch office
Class B - Security agency
Class BB - Security agency branch office
Class C - Private investigator
Class CC - Private investigator intern
Class D - Security officer
Class DI - Security officer school instructor
Class DS - Security officer school
Class E - Recovery agent
Class EE - Recovery agent intern
Class G - Statewide firearms license (For security and P.I.'s)
Class K - Firearms instructor
Class M - Manager investigative and security agency
Class MA - Manager private investigation agency
Class MB - Manager security agency
Class MR - Manager recovery agency
Class R - Recovery agency
Class RI - Recovery school instructor
Class RR - Recovery agency branch office
Class RS - Recovery agent school
Class W - Concealed weapons permit (For general public)

Although this may appear somewhat confusing, the items of interest to a private investigator would be the class "A", class "C", class "CC", and possibly class "MA" licenses.

Ususally the agency owner is a class "C" investigator and can act as the agency manager without the need for a class "MA" manger.

Also important to remember is that a class "C" or class "CC" investigator must be an employee of a class "A" agency in order to perform services. In Florida, only a class "A" agency can contract work with an attorney, insurance company, other investigative agency, individual or any other business. You, as a class "C" or class "CC" investigator cannot contract work. You must work for a class "A" agency and the agency contracts the work.

A class "C" investigator can "sponsor" up to six class "CC" investigators at one time (although I don't feel that the investigative interns get adequate supervision with that arrangement. I wouldn't sponsor over three). This creates a apprentice type relationship for the intern with someone always supervising their work.

So, in summation, a class "CC" investigator (intern) would be supervised by a class "C" investigator. Both would be employees of the class "A" agency, which is allowed to contract business with other entities. The agency would be managed by either the class "C" investigator or a class "MA" private investigation agency manager.

A class "CC" (intern) license holder is not permitted to work on his own. As I stated in my previous post, only a class "A" licensed agency can contract work with someone else. Although a class "CC" intern could possibly get a class "MA" agency manager license and run the agency, he would still need a class "C" license holder to sponsor him.

Florida does provide exemptions for people who can demonstrate that they have acquired knowledge in the investigative arena. Prior work history, education, and other types of experience are credited on a case-by-case basis (I believe). A person with zero experience is required to complete two years of full-time employment with a licensed private investigative agency to qualify for a class "C" license.

Working with a class "CC" license does not mean that you must be handcuffed to the sponsor at all times. When he is satisfied that you can complete an assignment he will allow you to work on your own and review your work afterwards. It might mean going back out and asking more questions or re-doing a report, but you won't necessarily be shadowed by him. You will need to live within fifty miles of the sponsoring investigator's employer, but he can send you on assignment anywhere.

A note about the process of becoming a class "CC" licensed investigator. First, contact the Florida Department of State, Division of Licensing (DOL) either in Tallahassee or at one of their regional offices (my closest one is in Tampa). Pick up a class "CC" license application. Inside will be a copy of Florida statute 493. Read it. Know it. Nothing will impress a professional investigator more than someone who knows the rules to the game. Fill out the application except for the part that the sponsor fills out. Take your fingerprint card to your local police department and have them take your fingerprints. Get two passport photographs at Walgreens or AAA. (The photos and fingerprints may now be taken at the DOL's regional office if you go there in person). Okay, now all you need is a sponsor.

Got a suit? Wear it. Get a haircut. Look like a professional. Put your application, photos, fingerprint card, resume. . . wait! You have a resume, don't you? Okay, go back inside and type up a resume. One page is optimal. . . Two at the most. Nobody wants your life history, but be sure and put in relevant items pertaining to investigation. If you don't have a history in investigation put down what courses you've taken, the fact that you're tenacious, hard working, loyal, and any other traits that you think are important. Put down that you have your own video camera and still camera and that you've practiced your surveillance (You have practiced your surveillance, haven't you?). Put down that you own a computer and that you know how to use it. Put down that you have reliable transportation. Put down that you belong to IPIU and any other professional associations that you belong to. Oh yeah, run the spell checker. Nothing will make you look worse than a lot of misspelled words on your resume. Okay, put all that stuff in your briefcase. Take your camera equipment and your laptop computer and put them in the trunk (Your employer may want to see them). Get a list of all the investigative agencies in your county (Yeah, its available. Just go to http://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/access/agency.html and put "All 'A' Licensed Agencies" in the first box and your county in the second box. Print out the list.), get in your car and begin with the one closest to your home and move out in a concentric circle (No sense driving 50 miles to work if there's an agency just down the street.)

When you arrive at the agency park your car and check your appearance. Any spinach in your teeth? Good. Go inside and walk up to the first employee you see. With a smile on your face and a sincere tone in your voice say "My name is (Insert Your Name Here) and I am looking for an investigative internship. I'm a fast learner and a hard worker and I would be a good employee. I really want to get into this business. Who do I speak about that?" I bet you'll get an interview. Don't be disappointed if you don't, there are others agencies in town.

Now, you will find that many investigative agencies are run out of the person's house. Don't go up and knock on their door. Get their number and call them first. Only go to a house if you're invited.

Once you find someone willing to sponsor you, you need to talk about compensation. There are three types of sponsoring investigators. . . The good, the bad, and the ugly. The good will pay you a reasonable starting wage, generally $6.00 to $10.00 per hour. Most likely it will be on the lower end of the scale. It might move up with time, but don't expect much. You can't expect to get paid a lot when you don't know much, right? The bad will tell you that he is having to impart his wisdom to you and cover you on his insurance. No pay for you! The ugly will actually try to charge you to do work for him. He'll tell you that he's doing you a favor. Now, we all have our limits. Maybe you're rich and don't mind working for free or paying someone, but most of us can't afford to do that. You'll have to decide how low you can afford to go. Hopefully, you'll be married and your spouse will have a good paying job letting you get away with a minimal wage for a while. It will be worth it in the end, don't worry.

Okay, so now that you've got the wage problem worked out have the sponsor sign your class "CC" license application. MAKE A COPY OF IT for your records (these things get lost) and mail it or take it to the DOL with your fingerprint card, photographs and a check for $92.00. Once they receive it you ARE a class "CC" licensed investigator. They will conduct an FBI background check and other checks, but you can still work as an investigator until they tell you otherwise. Your license will come in the mail in a few weeks or months, depending on the delay.

Your employer will send an Employee Action Report (EAR) to the DOL notifying them that they have hired you. They are also responsible for completing a bi-annual evaluation. It is a good idea to make a note on your calendar to remind your boss about your bi-annual report. If the DOL doesn't get that report you don't get credit for your time. There's more than one story about people who worked for years and never got any credit. Don't be one of them.

That's it. You're now an employee of a licensed private investigative agency. Work hard. Keep your ears opened and your mouth shut. Don't be cocky or pushy. Private investigators need to be people persons.
Take Care,

updated 1/18/07

[Legal Affairs]

Originally posted by Jorge Lange
If I want to be owner of an agency (sometime), to obtain the license class "A", I must pass first through all the others categorias... that is to say, I must obtain class "CC" and "C"..?

No, you do not need to obtain a CC or C license to license your own agency as an owner.

Ownership of your licensed private investigator's agency has many benefits:

1) You can set the rate your agency charges for cases, which may average $65-$100 per hour, depending on the type of cases.

2) Once you have a client, you work with your sparetime licensed private investigator employee to handle the case. Your employee is paid a portion of the $65-$100 per hour that you, as the owner, collect from the client. As an example, there are several licensed PI's in Florida who would be happy to earn $25-$35 per hour, while allowing your, the owner, to keep the remainder as an owner's salary.

3) Once your agency is licensed, and you have a licensed PI as an employee to manage the cases, you can then personally apply for your own CC Intern License under your own agency license. This is the beauty of owning your own agency and being guaranteed to obtain a CC Intern License with your own agency as the sponsor.

4) Therefore, as the owner you can advertise and promote your licensed agency. As a CC Intern, you can work cases under your C-Licensed employee and gain the required earn hours on record towards obtaining your future C-license in a few years. As a CC Intern, you can be paid $20 per hour, allowing your manager to earn $25-$35 an hour, and the remainder toward your owner's salary. Or, you're smart - you will consult your accountant to better balance the wages and expenses and owners salary to maximize your tax savings as a corporation. (See the Home Office Forum)

5) Union members of IPIU have a free benefit to be aided in setting up their own licensed agency. IPIU will arrange for you to interview several C-Licensed private investigators in Florida that would be willing to work on an as-needed basis for a small percentage of your case retainers. You can also hire several sparetime licensed investigators throughout the state to cover different areas. Having several licensed PI's also insures that your agency will never be without a qualified licensed PI to keep it going.

For more information, go to the Obtaining Your Private Investigator License or Agency License Forum

Originally posted by Christopher J Beck
My question is that since I am going through IPIU is there a way to get a cc license through the union. Or do I even need one?

That depends on your private file status and where IPIU would place you. Best to make your move and ask the question after you establish residency.

IPIU does not license it's members. But IPIU does provide all of the licensing applications for any Florida license as a free benefit to it's members.

Further, you have a choice to work for a regulated company or individual that is licensed under the Florida Department for Private Investigators, or to work for a regulated company or individual that is licensed under any other Florida Department of "other licensing", or work for a lawful company or individual that is not regulated by any government agency. The choice is yours and IPIU will only recommend those agency's, firms, and individuals that are lawful and abide by an acceptable Code of Ethics.

IPIU recommends that a direct cold call unsolicited approach usually reaps very little employment offers, if any at all.

IPIU Members are best to have IPIU solicit the agencies on behalf of a member to draw out from the owner other factors that may lead to hiring, but is not usually revealed to the applicant. IPIU uses a borrowed quote of: Talent should never represent itself.

This procedure evolved from what IPIU discovered with The American Management Association, which has a long successful record of representing it's members in aiding employment.

[Legal Affairs]

Originally posted by John Ferrante
.... if the agency, law firm or P.I. is out of that 50 mile radius?

This policy allows you to live outside the 50-mile radius of the business address of the sponsoring agency:

LEGAL OPINION 95-32

QUESTION:

Why does Section 493.6116(3), Florida Statutes, require the 50-mile radius requirement regarding sponsorship of interns?

RESPONSE:

The legislature's intent in imposing the 50-mile radius requirement is clearly stated:
Internship is intended to serve as a learning process. Sponsors shall assume training status by providing direction and control of interns.

To achieve that expressed intent, the legislature mandated that sponsors "shall only sponsor interns whose place of business is within a 50-mile distance of the sponsor's place of business and shall not allow interns to operate independently of such direction and control."

The language of the statute specifies that sponsors shall only sponsor interns whose place of business is within a 50 mile distance of the sponsor's place of business. By that language, the residence address of the intern in relation to the sponsoring agency is irrelevant. The language only requires that the office from which the intern routinely operates is within a 50 mile radius of the place of business of the sponsor. Additionally, statutory language does not prohibit the performance of regulated activities by interns outside the 50 mile radius so long as the regular place of business is within 50 miles. Interns may conduct regulated activities anywhere in state if the regular place of business makes them accessible for instruction, direction and control by the sponsor.

The statute requires that the office from which the intern in fact and routinely operates is within a 50 mile radius of the sponsor's place of business. In order to acquire the training requisite to obtaining the "C" or "E" license, the intern must in fact and on a routine basis be physically under the direction and control of his sponsor. "Physically" contemplates in-person contact on a routine basis, with the sponsor and is not accomplished by contact solely by telephone, fax, or computer. Additionally, the statute does not prohibit the occasional performance of regulated activities by interns outside the 50 mile radius if the intern is in fact and routinely operating from an office within a 50 mile radius of his sponsor.

Nevertheless, if you live within a 50 mile radius to a reasonably good size city where there are enough licensed agencies, IPIU will arrange for the agency to sponsor you to put your CC license to work.

In the meantime, if you are an IPIU member you will have access to the Own your Own Agency Forum where you can become an owner of an agency without any experience. That discussion is for members only and not for this forum.

[Legal Affairs]

Originally posted by John Ferrante
"you cannot legally hire a Private Investigator who does not work for an agency with the letter "A" affixed to their license. Private Investigators who have a "C" or "CC" affixed to their license must be hired through an agency."

I will have a better answer for you later in the week (which will include many exemptions that preclude you from going through the state licensing board, but for now let me state the following:

An Class A-Agency license is only for the company and not for the individual investigator. Clients are suppose to use investigators that are responsible to the state and to an agency that hold a Class-C license. And C and CC's are hired under a Class-A license.

If you qualify for a C-License, then you must be assigned to an agency in order to advertise.

But most trainees are not advertising and pursue either the CC route or any one of the many exemeptions permitted (which I will post later).

On owning your agency, do not allow a $300,000 insurance policy kill your hopes. All that's required is to pay a small premium each year, which will be far less expensive than the amount of income your agency can earn at the FULL RATE of pay (not the trainee level).

But, this topic is for licensing and not for owning an agency. If you are an IPIU member, you can author a new topic in the private forum of Owning Your Own Agency where IPIU can arrange a smooth path.

Originally posted by John Ferrante
Now I was really confused, so I gave a call to Florida Department of State,

Originally posted by John Ferrante

I'm not at all happy when I talk to them. I have called them several times in the last few weeks and I got as many different answers to the same questions, go figure.

How you like taking to them?

Our office has spoken to their department a few times and we are utterly amazed at the cop-mentality of the people (mostly men) who are giving out "information" to callers that are based on half-truths!

When our office receives a complaint from a member that leads to calling their office, we typically hear the same half-truth before asking for a supervisor. Then when the supervisor gets on the phone, they ackknowledge the full truth (in the statutes), yet refuse to apologize for their co-worker's half-truth statements that led to the complaint.

At some point our office will be speaking directly to the governor's appointee to help clear their mess up.

[Julia Baxley Falcone]

Originally posted by Legal Affairs

Here is "the word" on the Florida law, Chapter 493.

It seems to me that it is much faster and safer to have IPIU place a PI Trainee with the correct license holder. Thank you IPIU.

[Temistocles Tatis]

According to my understanding of chapter 493, Florida S.
In order for a person obtained a private investigation license
must follow their requirements. A license C investigator have
to sponsor you. After he does the paper work by the deparment
that give him the permission to have you as a CC trainne.

By continue supervision the PI that sponsored you, and the
work amount of time required for you to get experience.
Notice that, he can be working up to six people that he can
sponsoring and sharing his experiences. A real professional
will tell you when you are ready to apply for your own
license, after seeing your progress.

Another option that IPIU recommend, and I think's make a lot
sense, is to apply to have your own agency, having a PI
license working part time for you and let him sponsoring you
mean while you get experience.

Sincerely, Temistocles Tatis

[Steven Tremblay]

If you'll remember a few years ago they picked a new motto for the state of Florida..they came up with "The rules are different here."

That alone should explain most of the confusion with trying to get an answer from Tallahassee!

If you want a real challenge, call your local sherriffs office and ask them who you need to speak to - to file a report for something.

But back to the topic . . . it looks like waiting for IPIU placement may be the way to go. I banged my head on my desk enough times trying to get a straight answer out of Tallahassee

[Deborah Siehl -]

Originally posted by Clyde M. King
I recently graduated from Education Direct's private investigator program and earned 24 CEU'S (continuing education units).

Does any of this schooling count toward the time required to intern in Florida? I understand that an intern must put in 2 years full-time with a sponsoring agency before he can get the c license.

Hi Mike,

As far as your schooling counting towards time in an agency, I was never under the impression that it counted. When I called every agency in the yellow pages in my area I never got straight forward answers. Now after reading some of the info I know why, they don't like new people in their territory. The only thing I can suggest is ask the agency that you contact. I find that I will work my way in through ipiu. I can gain alot more with their help and my attitude than I can on my own. Good Luck

Deborah Siehl

[Temistocles Tatis]

Get some one to sponsoring you. So far you have a great foundation. If you want to verify my saying, call Fl. licensing division or request an application. Good luck.

[Thomas J Nicol]

Thank you so much for the itinerary.... Wheeeeooo! Well, apparently the process isn't a "quick" one by any stretch of the imagination.

I just hope and pray that I can hold out through the abundant waiting periods. I now realize, a part time/full time J.O.B. is essential for survival, not having a working spouse. "This", I hope, will be the career.

Continuing patiently,

[Carlos Oviedo]

I'm a "CC" licenses in the state of florida had completed a correspondenses course from "PCDI" that was a good experience. They helped me with my work but at the end you need to find an sponsor. The only credit that you gain from the state of florida comes from "CITY College"
and thats one year towards your "C" licenses.

carlos.

[Temistocles Tatis]

Understanding the law is really a matter of time. I constanly study chapter 493 because is related to the profession that
I love. As more as I do study it and listen to the interpretation
of my colleagues, my mind do open up more.

If you really get deep into chapter 493 specially sections 493.6116
(3) of the Florida statutes base on the way that's print on the
private investigators manual, you will agree about this: harcourt
Learning Direct ICS is accrediting commision of the Distance
Education and Training council (DETC), which is listed by the
United States Department of Education as a nationally recognized
accrediting agency.

My question with all my respect, where does it say in the chapter
493 Florida statutes, that a person that has credential of succesful completed a private investigation course in the mentioned legal organization, won't have the same legal right
to obtain one year combination category in the C license application as well as City college does, according to the statement made by my colleague above.?

Sincerely, Temistocles Tatis

[Deborah Siehl -]

I went to Southern College in Orlando, this school is now closed, but I received 2 degrees there. I was told that the credits there were not recognized on the same level as say a community or university. I have never been questioned about my schooling credentials, just my gender. I didn't even know that by having the hours in the degree would count for a year toward a cc license. I have tried to get into this field since I graduated and I didn't feel welcome. The last resume I sent, I received a call and was asked if I was married, or had children, and basically was turned down over the phone, because they had lost an investigator whose wife gave him an ultimatum. So I kind of gave up with that. Discouraging to me. Just because I am female, married and have children doesn't make me incapable of doing the job required. I do have a question, can you apply for a "cc" license with the state before having a sponsor?

Thanks for any input on this in advance,

Deborah Siehl

[Mr. Jody W. Neubert]

Deborah;

I know this individual that went to an interview to try and become a PI. This individual also has College in the Criminal Justice field.

While at the interview this individual was asked many questions pertaining to the field that the particular agency handled. Well after about a 20 minute interview that individual was told they where to old. This individual was 40 or 41 at the time.

I can assure you this individual was discouraged and felt pretty down after that. This individual now had a mission to prove to the interviewer that they where not to old. I am glad to say this individual proved the interviewer 100% wrong in that they where not to old.

This individual is now a Licensed PI. The moral of this story is DO NOT give up if this is what you want to do. The answer is always no untill you ask, so if you are told no you have lost nothing because that is what the answer was to begin with.

You must be persistant and dedicated and dont let one negitive stop you.

As for your question regarding the CC License, Yes you will need a sponsor before you apply because on the application there is a place for the sponsoring agency to sign.

By the way the individual I spoke about above is myself.

Best of luck to you and stay focused.

[Thomas J Nicol]

Originally posted by Mr. Jody W. Neubert
While at the interview this individual was asked many questions pertaining to the field that the particular agency handled. Well after about a 20 minute interview that individual was told they where to old. This individual was 40 or 41 at the time.

Hi Jody,

If that agency thought 40 was "too old", how would they have responded to 60+? I guess that is what I will be dealing with.

Glad yours worked out well.

All the best,

[Carlos Oviedo]

Hello Temistocles and Debra Siehl.

Temistocles i do understand everything that you said about the florida chapter 493 but after i completed my course at PCDI i took the time to call tallahassee and i was told that the state of florida would not give me any credit towards my "CC" licenses and that i need to find me an sponsor that is not the easy's things to do because nobody wants to teach a rookie if you not ready to bring then money they dont need you, to clear the air you should call the state of florida and post they respond to you.

Debra, dont feel bad because of your gender or age im a black hispanic and 40years old you said that you went to Southern College so i think that you are from orlando im from miami.


carlos.

[Deborah Siehl -]

Hi Jody,

Thanks for the advice. I will give it another try, and another.

Until I became a member of this organization (IPIU), I did not have any other answer, except the problem was me. Now I have read it a few times where it is mainly because they don't want rookies.

I do have something to prove.

Thank you so much

Deborah Siehl

[Omar Castro]

I thought moving to Florida would be great for a potential PI but I guess I should get some lic. up here and then hopefully they have reciprocidy from state to state? Well it sounds hard but I can't believe they told that person he was to old. Maybe he should mention he has a very old lawyer that doesn't mind taking there time to sue!

[Thomas J Nicol]

Originally posted by Omar Castro
Well it sounds hard but I can't believe they told that person he was to old. Maybe he should mention he has a very old lawyer that doesn't mind taking there time to sue!

Hey Omar,

I love it!!

With all due respect, there's nothing like having a good lawyer up one's sleeve!

Keep up the good work,

[Mr. Jody W. Neubert]

Originally posted by Morell Moore
I am new to this I was wanting to know the diffence between a "C" license and a "CC" license.

Morell,

I will make this very simple a "C" license is a licensed Private Investigator and a "CC" license is a Licensed Private Investigator (Intern).

The "C" License allow's you to freelance and the "CC" license doe's not. You must hold the "CC" license for the required time before you can get the "C" license

I hope this answered your question.

[Cynthia Ford]

Originally posted by Paul Davis
so what is the CWR, Fingerprints and ID photos for? Could it be.....for IPIU, so that the trainee can placed by IPIU only?

Yes.

And other agencies and firms who IPIU works with has access to the results of the CWR, etc. to qualify you for assignments if you do not have a state issued C-License. If you have a C-License, than no CWR or prints are required for membership.

Originally posted by Paul Davis
Does this mean I will have to go through this whole process again when I find a sponcer?

There are tens of thousands of investigators in the nation, and most do not have and do not need a state issued license. It's a matter of personal choice. But for those who want the best of all approaches, work on obtaining your agency license while working basic assignments now.

Originally posted by Paul Davis
Is this a reapt/redundance of processes?

IPIU's Mission Statement fully sustains state licensing where it is required. A few years ago, a nationally famous licensed private investigator stated "I use my license to advertise as a private investigator. But once I speak to the client, I find that 90% of all my cases do not require the use of my state license."

So if 90% of all the work does not require a license, then we feel our union members should be made aware of that while they are striving privately to obtain their license to advertise as a PI.

Originally posted by Paul Davis
I'm sorry if I'm not following. I just want to get it right!!!!

Paul, I apologize that another administrator or moderator was not able to edit the comments for clarity. Everyone here, including Jim, have very good intentions in helping others on their way down the path. There are different paths to take you to obtain your goal. We suggest for you to consider all paths.

Cynthia

[Jim Ley--]

Originally posted by Elizabeth Ross
I have already been offered a sponsorship with a PI, and for $10/hour, which is great! But he wants me to sign a NO COMPETITION CONTRACT. Is that the norm? And if so, for how long are these contracts good for? Do all agencys ask you to do this?

Elizabeth,

Yes, it is the norm. The agency realizes that most investigators merely use them as a springboard to advance their own careers. They know that in two year, after they gain the experience for a license, many investigators will take off and open their own agency, many taking the agency's clients with them. The non-compete agreement is the agency owner's only defense against that.

In Florida, non-compete agreements must be resonable in nature. For instance, it may be reasonable to say that you cannot work in the Jacksonville area for two years following your termination. However, the courts might not consider it reasonable to say that you cannot work in the State of Florida for a period of ten years. Of course, it depends on the judge.

In short, if the agency is willing to invest in you and train you then you should be willing to sign something to protect them. After all is said and done you may have to work in a different town if you chose to leave the agency, but this is a small price to pay for the chance to get into the field.

[Julia Ann Stewart]

Originally posted by Eliott Mendelson
a) While signing-up for the IPIU we went through a process that would provide us with a card that has our picture on it and some other information. Why is that card important and how can it be used?

The Photo Credential Card that issued to non-regulated private investigators in the State of Florida does not apply to this Licensing Topic for regulated private investigators in the State of Florida.

Read the nineteen (19) exemptions in the first comment of this topic that allow non-regulated private investigators to work in Florida without being required to obtain their own PI License.

For regulated private investigators who are licensed, their identification card is monitored through the FBI's NCIC wants and warrants database on a regular basis to insure the licensee's activity is within the standards of their acceptable conduct to continue to carry a current license.

For unregulated private investigators who are not required to be licensed, the IPIU Photo Credential card is also screened through the same wants and warrants database. There is no benefit to license PI to have both cards. IPIU also accepts over 3000 other identifcation cards in the nation that are also monitored through the same database.

To discuss the additional merits of the IPIU Photo Credentials, go to the Trainee Forums and review the appropriate topics that have been discussed for the last several years.

Originally posted by Eliott Mendelson
b) According to the Florida law each of us must obtain a "cc" category license in order to work for a " C " certified PI who works for an Agency.

Yes and no. It depends on whether your employment falls inside or outside of regulated investigations. Again, refer to the exemptions posted. A trainee can work for a Florida licensed agency and perform "basic tasks" that do not require a CC license.

Originally posted by Eliott Mendelson
b) Does the card we paid for above provide us with the credentials to be certified as a "cc" category investigator in Florida.

No.

Again, both cards serve a different purpose. The Florida C-License is the ultimate goal that states you have earned the privilege after thousands of hours and years on the job to qualify for the license. It is then monitored to insure your ongoing professional conduct serving clients.

The IPIU Photo Credentials are also monitored to insure professional conduct - and if necessary, is cancelled with notification to all referred firms who are employing the person that a criminal warrant is outstanding for the person.

Originally posted by Eliott Mendelson
b) If not, will you provide the assistance to link us with a qualified "C" category investigator who works for an agency?

Yes.

Futhermore, we also have a members only forum on how to start your own licensed agency with no personal PI experience.

Originally posted by Eliott Mendelson
b) Do we then after you provide that relationship have to apply for the "cc" category license?

The CC License process can begin before you are assigned to an agency. You may wish to request the application now.

---

Other comments you raised about fingerprints, photos, and warrants:

Clicke here:
http://www.ipiu.org/forums//showthre...threadid=12129

[Allen Davis]

Originally posted by Karen McQuilken
WOW!!! Lots to read here. I am new to this and waiting to get my package, anf move on from there. I would like to be a Licensed PI in Florida. My questions are......


If I want to get into crime, criminal, fraud or background. Have not narrowed it down at this point. But reading this I do need to obtain an agency to hire me..i think??? What are my steps after my background check, test and so forth.....????? Can I apply for a "CC" now and is this the one I want? i know it said that a PI would want a class A, C, CC and maybe a MA. What order should we try to get these or do they fall under one????


any other info for Florida thae state that has no rules!

Karen McQuilken

Don't read too much into getting a license or not getting a license. Most agencies will not hire if the person has no experience or academic training.

Get your training, take the tests, and sign up for assignments that do not require a license to perform. Then once you have some experience, contact IPIU for free assistance in going for your license, getting interviewed with agencies, or starting your own.

[Jim Ley--]

Originally posted by Karen McQuilken
What are my steps after my background check, test and so forth.....????? Can I apply for a "CC" now and is this the one I want? i know it said that a PI would want a class A, C, CC and maybe a MA. What order should we try to get these or do they fall under one????

Karen McQuilken

Karen,

To obtain a class "CC" private investigator intern license you should visit the Department of Agriculture, Division of Licensing website by clicking here. From that site you can find out where your closest office is and order an application, download a copy of FSS 493, the statutes that regulate P.I.'s, as well as many other things.

When you receive your class "CC" license application you can fill it out along with the affidavit of experience (if any), but you still need to have a class "C" license holder sponsor you. They sign your application and a letter of intent to sponsor and you can then begin working for an investigative agency. Don't worry about the class "A", "C" and "MA" licenses. They don't apply to you. Good luck with your endeavor.

[Cynthia Ford]

If you are a Licensed Private Investigator, Attorney, Bail Bond Agent, or sworn active Law Enforcement Officer who has the standard free Level 1 Regular password, you may wish to request a free Professional Upgrade to Level-1 Professional.

To request your upgrade, do the following:

1. Click on the CONTACT US link at the bottom of any forum page.
   
   Or, click here:
   http://www.ipiu.org/forums/sendmessage.php
   
   
2. Choose the item titled Password Access to Level 1-Professional (Licensed PI's Only) - which is also good for licensed Attorney, Bail Bond Agent, or sworn active Law Enforcement Officer.
   
   
3. Type in your full name, contact information, email, license number, and all other details needed to verify your license.
   
   
4. After you have been upgraded, click on the following Level 1-Professional Link to test out your new password access:
   
   http://www.ipiu.org/forums/forumdisp...sprune=-1&f=14

---

INVITATION:
We invite you to read the following quote about accessing the other 200+ private forums here:

Thanks for your interest in IPIU and the Private Investigators Forums.

Level 4 access is for those who are IPIU fraternal union members who have signed their Oath & Code of Ethics and have chosen a membership option (some of which are free to certain agencies).

Level 4 benefits are detailed in the Union News Forum.

For licensed professionals, the benefits of union membership also include an upgrade in their approved signature and User Title to advertise themselves or their agency to clients and other agencies that wish to retain their services.

Presently, you are at Level 1-Professional - which gives you limited access to the agency who sponsored you recently to conduct their assignments. The remaining 200 private forums would be open to you upon your signing the IPIU Oath & Code of Ethics and choosing a union membership (some of which are free to certain agencies who qualify).

Here are some free links and details:

Level Access details:
http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthrea...&threadid=3062

Details on membership here:
http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthrea...&threadid=6542

Online membership options here:
http://www.privateinvestigators.cc/i...254149effa6152

Online Electronic Registration for non-licensed private investigators:
Click here for standard and priority options:
http://www.privateinvestigators.cc/i...254149effa6152

Union Membership Benefits:
http://ipiu.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=625

Unsolicited Testimonials Forum:
http://www.ipiu.org/forums/forumdisp...?s=&forumid=48

Home Page:
http://www.ipiu.org/

Again, we thank you for your interest and look forward to a long and rewarding professional relationship.

[Karen McQuilken]

This has confussed me. today in the mail I recieved a package
( one I ordered ) and recieve forms to fill out for a Class "C" and class "CC" license. I know the class "CC" it is a letter of intent to sponsor. and I do not fill this one out until i have a sponsor..right?? Also on the class "C" license, they are doing the same as IPIU. fingerprints, photo ID,background check. They also have fee's for filing. Do I turn this in now, the class "C" or wait??My understanding is that we need to get a sponsor for our class "C", then we can turn in our class "CC?"

I am sorry for all the questions..but i have read all about the class "C" and "CC" but i am still lost.


Thanks for all your support-
Karen McQuilken

[Cynthia Ford]

Originally posted by Karen McQuilken
This has confussed me.

If you heading towards a license, make this a study and do not rush it.

Print out all of the information from their website too, especially the questions and answers. (See the first post on Page 1)

Originally posted by Karen McQuilken
They also have fee's for filing. Do I turn this in now, the class "C" or wait??My understanding is that we need to get a sponsor for our class "C", then we can turn in our class "CC?"

I am sorry for all the questions..but i have read all about the class "C" and "CC" but i am still lost.

Did you read Allen Davis's suggestions for you??

If you are already in processing with IPIU for academic training, testing, and job referrals - then perhaps you should not be so rushed into filling out a C-License application when you can't qualify for it for years to come.

And perhaps you should wait until you graduate and have worked some unregulated assignments before you get too serious about the CC-license. IPIU has a whole Level-4 forum set up for free member assistance for licensing. The purpose of this topic is to clarify the statutes. The state's website has the questions and answers. And the Level 4 forum offers the help to make it happen.

Nevertheless, we have had members acquire the CC license, pending appointment of their sponsor. But that is usually after their are trained.

[Karen McQuilken]

Cynthia-Thanks for the info. i did read in a thread where it gave me the web site to get applications for the "C" and "CC" license. It also said it was a good thing to get and fill out.

Karen McQuilken

[Fritz Drexler]

I have an interesting question for you...can any law enforcement work under a private investigation agency...without a license? I'm taking the State Troopers test next month.

Fritz

[Robert Donovan]

Originally posted by Fritz Drexler
I have an interesting question for you...can any law enforcement work under a private investigation agency...without a license? I'm taking the State Troopers test next month.

Fritz

Please read Exemption #15 on Page 1 of this topic. You can also click on the statute link for more.

[Jason Gunn]

i am a licenced by the state as a security offocer do i need to get a class C licence to become a PI?

[Jason Gunn]

sorry officer

[Fritz Drexler]

you need to get an agency or someone with a C license to sponsor you for the intern(CC) license. I too am a licensed security officer in the state of florida, but its not the same field(only somewhat similar).

[Jason Gunn]

where can i find someone to sponsor me to do something like that?

[Deborah Siehl -]

Hi Jason,

Here is a link to get you started on your training.

Newcomer Topic

Please read through and follow the instructions. 99% of your questions will be answered inside the forums.

Have a great day,

[Jason Gunn]

thanks

[Carlton Day]

So from right now as a newcomer how long would it take to be a class "C"(private investigator) and about how much money do I need approx.?

Thank You For the support, experience, and most of all your help.

[Benjamin J. Williams III -]

The answer to that question is yes and no.

First of all the State does require that you obtain a Private Investigation License. This is pretty easy if you have been a police officer for a few years. If this is the case you can usually skip the class "CC" license and go straight for you class "C" License.

The problem is that most of the police agencies, at least here in South Florida, have policies and procedures against police officers working side jobs, especially private investigation, due to liablility purposes. That could mean instant termination. The main reason that the police agencies frown upon this is because police officers are privilidged to alot of information not readily accessible to the public and which can not be divulged to the public.

Alot of police officers do in fact work for private investigation companies off the books. This applies to that saying, "you don't go to jail for stealing you go for getting caught."