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Thread: PI LICENSING: Oregon

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    PI LICENSING: Oregon

    NO LICENSE IS REQUIRED IF you fall into the following:

    703.411 Exceptions. ORS 703.401 to 703.490, 703.993 and 703.995 do not apply to:

    (1) A person employed exclusively by one employer in connection with the affairs of that employer only;

    (2) An officer or employee of the United States, or of this state, or a political subdivision of either, while the officer or employee is engaged in the performance of official duties;

    (3) A person acting as a private security officer as defined in ORS 181.870;

    (4) A person who is employed full-time as a peace officer, as defined in ORS 161.015, who receives compensation for private employment as an investigator, provided that services are performed for no more than one person or one client;

    (5) A person that provides secured transportation and protection, from one place or point to another place or point, of money, currency, coins, bullion, securities, bonds, jewelry or other valuables;

    (6) A person that places, leases, rents or sells an animal for the purpose of protecting property, or any person that is contracted to train an animal for the purpose of protecting property;

    (7) A person engaged in the business of obtaining and furnishing information regarding the financial rating of persons;

    (8) An attorney admitted to practice law in this state performing his or her duties as an attorney;

    (9) A legal assistant or paralegal engaged in activity for which the person is employed by an attorney admitted to practice law in this state;

    (10) Insurers, insurance adjusters, insurance agents and insurance brokers licensed in this state and performing duties in connection with insurance transacted by them;

    (11) Any secured creditor engaged in the repossession of the creditor's collateral and any lessor engaged in the repossession of leased property in which it claims an interest;

    (12) An employee of a cattle association who is engaged in inspection of brands of livestock under the authority granted to that cattle association by the Packers and Stockyards Division of the United States Department of Agriculture;

    (13) Common carriers by rail engaged in interstate commerce and regulated by state and federal authorities and transporting commodities essential to the national defense or to the general welfare and safety of the community;

    (14) Any news media and the employees thereof when engaged in obtaining information for the purpose of disseminating news to the public;

    (15) A legal process service company attempting to serve legal process; or

    (16) A landlord or an agent of a landlord performing duties in connection with rental property transactions. [1997 c.870 s.3]


    OTHERWISE:
    703.415 Investigator's license qualifications. An applicant for an investigator's license:

    (1) Must be at least 21 years of age;

    (2) Must have been actively engaged in investigatory work for a period of not less than one year. Completion of a related course of study at an educational institution certified by the Department of Education within the 18 months prior to application may be substituted for up to six months of the required work experience. This work may have been as an operative for an investigator, a law enforcement agent, an attorney admitted to practice law in any state or an employee in a public agency engaged in investigatory activities, or other equivalent experience as determined by the Oregon Board of Investigators;

    (3) Must not have committed any act that constitutes grounds for denial of a license under ORS 703.465 unless the Oregon Board of Investigators concludes that notwithstanding the act or acts, the applicant is fit for the position; and

    (4) Must have obtained a passing score on the test of professional investigative ethics administered or approved by the board. [1997 c.870 s.4]

    703.420 Operative's registration qualifications. An applicant for an operative's registration:

    (1) Must be at least 21 years of age;

    (2) Must not have committed any act that constitutes grounds for denial of a registration under ORS 703.465 unless the Oregon Board of Investigators concludes that notwithstanding the act, the applicant is fit for the position; and

    (3) Must have obtained a passing score on the test of professional investigative ethics administered or approved by the board. [1997 c.870 s.5; 1999 c.59 s.211]

    703.425 Application requirements; fee; investigation of applicant. (1) An application for an investigator's license or operative's registration shall be in writing on a form prescribed by the Oregon Board of Investigators and signed under oath, stating the applicant's:

    (a) Name;

    (b) Birthdate;

    (c) Citizenship;

    (d) Physical description;

    (e) Current residence;

    (f) Residence for the preceding 10 years;

    (g) Current employment;

    (h) Employment for the preceding 10 years;

    (i) Experience qualifications;

    (j) Education;

    (k) Business address, which may be a post office box; and

    (L) Any other information required by the board.

    (2) The application shall be accompanied by:

    (a) The application fee as prescribed by the board by rule;

    (b) Recent photographs of the applicant as prescribed by the board by rule to be used for an identification card and for the files of the board;

    (c) Complete sets of the applicant's fingerprints as prescribed by the board by rule;

    (d) Three professional references, none of which may be from a person who is related to the applicant by blood or marriage;

    (e) Proof of a corporate surety bond, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an insured institution as defined in ORS 706.008 or such other security as the board may prescribe by rule in the sum of at least $5,000 or errors and omissions insurance in the sum of at least $5,000. Failure to maintain such security or insurance is grounds for penalties as the board determines or denial of renewal of a license or registration; and

    (f) Proof of a passing score on the test of professional investigative ethics administered or approved by the board.

    (3) All applicants must disclose any acts or crimes constituting grounds for denial of a license or registration under ORS 703.465 and must notify the board when the applicant is charged with a criminal offense. The board must conduct a special review of any applicant making a disclosure under this subsection.

    (4) The board shall request criminal offender information from the Department of State Police in the manner required by ORS 703.427.

    (5) Employees of or partners in a firm who are covered by the firm's errors and omissions insurance meet the requirements of subsection (2)(e) of this section as long as the coverage is at least $5,000 per investigator. [1997 c.870 s.6; 1999 c.59 s.212; 1999 c.125 s.1; 1999 c.312 s.1; 1999 c.363 s.1]

    703.427 Criminal records check. (1)(a) The Oregon Board of Investigators shall forward two complete sets of an applicant's fingerprints to the Department of State Police and request the department to conduct a statewide criminal records check on the applicant.

    (b) Upon the request of the board, the Department of State Police shall furnish to the authorized staff of the board such information on an applicant for an investigator's license or an operative's registration as the Department of State Police may have in its possession from its central bureau of criminal identification, including but not limited to manual or computerized criminal offender information. The Department of State Police shall maintain the fingerprint cards used to conduct the statewide criminal records check in its files.

    (2)(a) If the background investigation conducted under subsection (1) of this section does not disclose any activity that would disqualify an applicant from becoming an investigator or operative pursuant to ORS 703.465, the Department of State Police shall conduct nationwide criminal records checks of the applicant through the Federal Bureau of Investigation by use of the applicant's fingerprints and shall report the results to the authorized staff of the board, who must be specifically authorized to receive the information.

    (b) The Federal Bureau of Investigation shall either return or destroy the fingerprint cards used to conduct the criminal records check and shall not keep any record of the fingerprints. However, if the federal bureau policy authorizing return or destruction of the fingerprint cards is changed, the department shall cease to send the cards to the federal bureau but shall continue to process the information through other available resources.

    (c) If the Federal Bureau of Investigation returns the fingerprint cards to the Department of State Police, the department shall return the fingerprint cards to the board.

    (3) For purposes of requesting and receiving the information and data described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the board is a designated agency for purposes of ORS 181.010 to 181.560 and 181.715 to 181.730. [1999 c.125 s.2]

    Note: 703.427 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 703 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

    703.430 Issuance of license and registration; posting of license; operative supervision requirement; expiration. (1) The Oregon Board of Investigators shall issue an investigator's license if the applicant has satisfied the requirements of ORS 703.415 and 703.425. Upon receiving an investigator's license from the board, an investigator shall, at all times, post this license in a conspicuous place in the principal place of business of the investigator.

    (2) The board shall issue an operative's registration if the applicant has satisfied the requirements of ORS 703.420 and 703.425. An operative shall, at all times, perform services under the direct supervision and control of a licensed investigator or an attorney admitted to practice in this state.

    (3) Any license or registration issued under this section shall expire two years following the date of issuance or on the assigned renewal date. [1997 c.870 s.7]

    703.435 Identification card; obligation to carry; return of card; replacement; fees. (1) When issuing an investigator's license or operative's registration, the Oregon Board of Investigators shall also issue an identification card of a size, design and content as may be determined by the board by rule.

    (2) Any person licensed or registered by this state as an investigator or operative shall carry at all times, while engaged in the practice of investigating, the identification card issued under this section.

    (3) Identification cards remain the property of this state and must be returned to the board within 15 business days after:

    (a) Failure to renew an investigator's license or operative's registration;

    (b) Revocation or suspension of a license or registration by the board; or

    (c) Termination of employment for a registered operative.

    (4) In the event of loss or destruction of an identification card, the cardholder may apply to the board for a replacement of the card, stating the circumstances of the loss or destruction. The cardholder shall provide recent photographs of the cardholder and a card replacement application fee as prescribed by the board by rule. [1997 c.870 s.8; 1999 c.125 s.3; 1999 c.363 s.2]

    703.440 Licensing reciprocity. The Oregon Board of Investigators may enter into a reciprocal agreement with the appropriate official of any other state to allow an investigator licensed in the other state to operate in Oregon if the board determines that the requirements for licensure in that state are substantially similar to the requirements under Oregon law. [1997 c.870 s.17]

    703.445 Renewal procedure; fee; penalty. (1) Every person holding an investigator's license or operative's registration who desires to continue to practice in this state shall apply for renewal and pay the renewal fee as prescribed by rule of the Oregon Board of Investigators to the board on or before the renewal date of the license or registration. Any person who fails to pay the renewal fee by the renewal date may, within the following 30 days, pay the renewal fee plus a penalty in an amount to be prescribed by board rule, not to exceed twice the amount of the current renewal fee. Any person who fails to pay the renewal fee, with accrued penalties, for a period of 30 days after the renewal date shall forfeit the right to work as an investigator or operative in this state and may be reinstated only upon compliance with the initial application procedures.

    (2) Prior to renewing a license or registration, the board may request criminal offender information from the Department of State Police as provided in ORS 703.427. Any act that is grounds for denying an initial application for a license or registration is grounds for refusing to renew a license or registration. [1997 c.870 s.9; 1999 c.125 s.4]

    703.450 Rules and requirements of conduct. All licensed investigators and registered operatives shall, at all times, observe the following rules and requirements of conduct:

    (1) An investigator or operative shall not knowingly make any false report to an employer or client for whom information was being obtained.

    (2) An investigator or operative shall not use a badge in connection with the official activities of the investigator's business.

    (3) An investigator or operative shall not attempt to give an impression that the investigator or operative is connected in any way with any law enforcement or other governmental entity by any statement or activity, including using a title, wearing a uniform, using an insignia or using an identification card.

    (4) An investigator or operative shall use only the official identification card issued by the Oregon Board of Investigators, or the business card regularly used by the investigator's business, to indicate that the investigator or operative is licensed or registered.

    (5) All investigators shall be directly responsible for the professional, ethical and legal conduct of their employees and operatives working under their supervision.

    (6) All advertisements by an investigator shall contain the company name, address, telephone number and the investigator's license number.

    (7) All identification cards, letterhead or other identifiers must contain:

    (a) The individual's name;

    (b) The business name;

    (c) The mailing address of the place of business;

    (d) The business telephone number; and

    (e) The license or registration number provided by the board.

    (8) An investigator or operative shall notify the board when the investigator or operative is charged with a criminal offense. [1997 c.870 s.10; 1999 c.125 s.5]

    703.455 Client rights; reports; records. (1) All investigators and operatives shall inform each client that the client has a right to receive a written contract. The contract shall clearly state the task to be performed and the rate of payment.

    (2) All investigators and operatives shall inform each client that the client is entitled to receive either of the following reports concerning services rendered:

    (a) An oral report that is timely and adequate when a client does not desire a written report; or

    (b) A written report furnished by the investigator or operative to the client within seven days after written request is received from the client.

    (3) All investigators and operatives shall maintain accurate accounting records of time and expenses.

    (4) All investigators shall keep separate and distinct case files for each client and case. Case files shall include the date activity began, copies of all correspondence and written reports generated and an accurate accounting of all time and expenses incurred by the investigator or operative during the course of that case.

    (5) Each investigator shall maintain a record of the term of employment of each employee and operative.

    (6) All records and files referred to in this section shall be maintained for not less than seven years. [1997 c.870 s.11]

    703.460 Principal location requirement. Investigators and operatives shall maintain a principal location for the conduct of business. This location, as well as any branch office, shall be registered with the Oregon Board of Investigators. Each investigator or operative shall notify the board within 10 days of any change of the business address of the principal location or of any branch office of the business. [1997 c.870 s.12]

    703.465 Discipline or issuance refusal; conditions. The Oregon Board of Investigators may refuse to grant or renew a license or registration, may suspend or revoke a license or registration or may reprimand, censure or impose a period of probation for any of the following reasons:

    (1) A conviction of a felony or of any offense involving moral turpitude;

    (2) A violation of any of the provisions of ORS 703.401 to 703.490, 703.993 and 703.995 or of any rule adopted by the board;

    (3) Any unprofessional conduct or unfitness of the investigator or operative;

    (4) Any act in the course of the investigator's or operative's business constituting dishonesty or fraud;

    (5) The submission of any false information in connection with an application for a license or registration;

    (6) Willful failure or refusal to render services to a client; or

    (7) Knowing violation of any court order or injunction in the course of business as an investigator or operative. [1997 c.870 s.18]

    703.470 Opportunity for hearing; judicial review. (1) If the Oregon Board of Investigators proposes to refuse to issue or renew a license or registration or proposes to suspend or revoke a license or registration or proposes to reprimand, censure or impose a period of probation on an investigator or operative, opportunity for hearing shall be accorded as provided in ORS 183.310 to 183.550.

    (2) Judicial review of orders under subsection (1) of this section shall be as provided in ORS 183.310 to 183.550. [1997 c.870 s.19]


    Links:
    http://www.oregon.gov/DPSST/PS/index.shtml

  2. #2
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    Oregon License?

    I know there is another section that states the licensing laws in Oregon. But I'm still confused. They say there are expemtions. Am I automatically exempt from requiring a license since I'm a IPIU member? Or will I need to eventually get licensed?

  3. #3
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    You may be exempt, regardless of IPIU, if your activity falls into any of the areas above. However, many firms will not hire you without either a license or an IPIU credential card that performs a background check and fingerprints on file.

    If you became a member of IPIU through their guaranteed referral program, then you may be clear to work with the firms IPIU has referred you with. But the statutes speak for themself.
    Julia Ann Stewart
    Sr. Director of Public Relations
    International Private Investigators Union


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  4. #4
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    Thanks a lot that cleared the confussion.

  5. #5
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    License Question

    So at the moment I'm attending a PI school in Oregon. Tonight we just went over state laws and the Oregon Board of Investigator says that I need a provisional license or a license to do any type of investigative work. The only time a PI does not need a license is when doing investigations within a company. So I plan on getting my provisional license after I'm done with school but I was wondering if I will still be able to work the assignments that the agencies through IPIU give me? Or will I have to wait until I get a provisional license?? how does all this work???

  6. #6
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    You do not need a provissional license to work within any of the above sixteen (16) exemptions as an "unlicensed private investigator". In addition to the above, you can also perform a number of other tasks, jobs, and employment that private investigators "do" but the job title is not necessarily a "private" investigator. I am speaking of a "case examiner".

    Also, please provide us with the full name of the PI School, the address, and the telephone number. If you prefer, send it to me at donovan@ipiu.org .

    Thank you.
    Robert Donovan
    Director - Agent Relations
    Sr. Director - IPIU Ethics Board



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  7. #7
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    Once I begin to work as a trainee...

    how does the licensing process work in Oregon? Must I be licensed?

    Thanks, Laura Carroll
    Laura Carroll

  8. #8
    Edward Taguba's Avatar
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    Talking

    Laura,

    Aloha and Welcome to IPIU.

    It is great pleasure that you have joined us.

    Your question below ask


    how does the licensing process work in Oregon? Must I be licensed?

    Thanks, Laura Carroll
    Answer: Is yes.

    To find your answer more in depth please visit the following
    Link Oregon License Information

    I also want to invite you to introduce yourself at the Forum Member Introduction's Lounge!
    and brefily introduce yourself.

    I also strongly advice you to read read and read around the forum. Your questions has been answered, all you need to do is just search for them by using the "search" button on the top of the forum.

    Below you will find several links. These links will help you along with the forum and you will find more about IPIU benefits, forum rules and much more.

    For Forum Rules – Click Here: Forum Rules Link

    For Forum Access Levels – Click Here: Forum Access Levels Link

    For IPIU Benefits Information – Click Here: IPIU Benefits and Time Table Link

    I want to wish you luck in the PI field.

    Aloha,



    Edward Taguba, MBA, Ph.D.

    Professional Global Technology Consultant
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  9. #9
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    Licensing

    My inderstanding is that I need at least six months experience before qualified to obtain a license. Through the assignments I will receive through who IPIU placements as a IPIU credentialed member, will this qualify as the experience I will need?

    thanks, Laura Carroll
    Laura Carroll

  10. #10
    William R. Larson - is offline (Retired from Forum Activity)

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    Laura -

    I merged your question with the topic of your answer. Please use the search function located toward the top of your screen on the right. If you are unsure of how to use the search function, the f.a.q. button is in the same area, and can provide a tutorial for you.

    Thank you for your support.

  11. #11
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    To WRL

    I have used the search function, and it takes me back to my question re licensing, and I do not see an answer that responds directly to my question. Julie Ann's reply does in part- that I would be exempt, regardless of IPIU, if my activity falls into any of the exempt areas. What if my activitivies do not fall into any of the exempt categores listed? Will being member of IPIU through the guaranteed placement program (Is this what I am in?) allow me to be hired by agencies until I have enough experience to obtain my license?

    Laura Carroll
    Laura Carroll

  12. #12
    The way I understand it one can get a provisional license quite simply. Experience is not required as far as I understand. Contact the Oregon Board iof Investigators to request an information/application packet. They will mail it right away. The test is open-book regarding the legal elements spelled out in the ORS and OAR applicable to Private Investigators, which copies are included in the material sent out by OBI. The whole process is spelled out on their website and in the packet. It is free. However, the testing, background and fingerprints have fees. The cost of the license and business license fees will also come due later.

  13. #13
    A few details about OR State licening are posted here:http://www.ipiu.org/forums//showthre...7392#post47392

  14. #14
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    Re: To WRL

    Originally posted by Laura Carroll
    I have used the search function, and it takes me back to my question re licensing, and I do not see an answer that responds directly to my question. Julie Ann's reply does in part- that I would be exempt, regardless of IPIU, if my activity falls into any of the exempt areas. What if my activitivies do not fall into any of the exempt categores listed? Will being member of IPIU through the guaranteed placement program (Is this what I am in?) allow me to be hired by agencies until I have enough experience to obtain my license?

    Laura Carroll
    Whatever agencies or firms you are referred to, IPIU does not interfere with the owner of a firm in his/her decision to call you a private investigator, or a case examiner, or an operative, or whatever. It is all related to investigations and IPIU bows to the employer's use of your employment or services, as they are better informed on their license needs. Some PI agencies hire unlicensed employees to perform several types of basic tasks that could be performed by either an unlicensed or licensed employee.

    In the meantime, you may wish to read the following topics.

    http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthrea...&threadid=4057

    http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthrea...&threadid=4856

  15. #15
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    Sad news for Oregon licensing fees every 24 months:

    "Amend fee category language (from operative to provisional investigator, and registration to license) and increase initial and biennial licensing fees for provisional investigators from $275 to $550.

    SOURCEs: http://www.obi.state.or.us/LawsandRu...Div5-10-02.pdf

    http://www.obi.state.or.us/LawsandRu...Div5-10-02.pdf

    That doubles the state's fee.



    Other news:

    Oregon requires "continuing education".

    Source: http://www.obi.state.or.us/Div%2050%20Temp%20Susp.pdf

  16. #16
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    Question I'm going to pass up the state license for the time being

    I've never been asked for credentials; most work with law firms can be designated as research.

    I'm sure this varies from state to state, but the background check usually satisfies the criteria for the employer. I've been asked to sign confidentiality statements, submit to background checks, etc.

    I'm interested in the cost to benefit ratio of IPIU membership over state membership; I can continue to work without a license so long as I limit my work to (a) law firm(s).

    State membership in Oregon seems time and resource consuming, and doesn't guarantee rates and work like IPIU seems to... as I'm not a member, I really don't know, but it seems IPIU is the better of the two, considering that the Oregon license is just fulfilling a licensing requirement, whereas the IPIU license appears to have benefits and a network of support.

    Again, I don't know; I'm new to these boards and haven't ferreted out the restricted topics for access to this information.
    "Just who IS this Dixon Hill guy,
    anyway?"

  17. #17
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    David,

    Don't confuse a membership in IPIU with a private investigator's license. They are two totally different animals. Your IPIU membership and credentials don't "license" you to work. Being a member of IPIU is like being a member of an association. While there may be certain benefits to being a member of IPIU, such as referrals for work, training, etc., the membership or the credentials provided to you are not a private investigator's license.

    Oregon's licensing laws are probably similar to most other state's licensing laws. There may be exemptions to holding a private investigation license, but they are few and very specific in their nature. Don't be under the impression that you can work in all states for law firms as a independent contractor without benefit of a state license. Most states allow you to work for a law firm as an employee without license, but they may require a formal employee/employer relationship. Things such as a paycheck with proper deductions, benefits, etc., items that other staff members of the firm receive, should be offered to you. In these states, don't think that you're an employee of ABC law firm today while doing a background check and an employee of XYZ law firm tomorrow while locating someone. It doesn't work that way.

    If you don't have a license then don't perform duties requiring licensure (as outlined in the statutes listed above in this topic). IPIU has plenty of things to refer to you that don't require a license. If you want to work without benefit of a license then find an exemption to the law and play by the Oregon rules. Don't try to bend or break them as that will only get you into trouble with the regulatory authorities. Best bet. . . get your private investigator's license and then you can run with the big boys without worrying about what or who's waiting around the next bend.
    Jim Ley

  18. #18
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    Originally posted by David Leach
    I've never been asked for credentials; most work with law firms can be designated as research.
    As Jim suggested, know the statutes of the Oregon laws. If you call the licensing office and ask for a verbal opinion for working as an employed private investigator for more than one law firm - and they discourage you - have them email you a copy of the statute that they are basing their advice (opinion) on. Licensing Boards in all states are obligated to perform their functions based on two items:

    1) The state statutes (which are passed by the senate and house);

    2) A formal and public interpretation by the state attorney general (who is the chief law enforcement attorney for matters of the state).

    Any other opinion not based on the above two items are not rules or statutes. However, they may be "views" of the board in matters they would feel appropriate to refer to the attorney general for clarification.

    Originally posted by David Leach
    I'm sure this varies from state to state, but the background check usually satisfies the criteria for the employer. I've been asked to sign confidentiality statements, submit to background checks, etc.
    Although the IPIU photo credentials is not a state license, it does offer a third-party certification (based on fingerprints taken by a law enforcement officer on a validated FBI fingerprint card) that the union member's identification on the card is monitored periodically through the same FBI wants and warrants database that the Oregon board uses to monitor it's license holders. Union members who are licensed private investigators have a special IPIU photo credential card which bears their state issued license number and any other permit - such as a concealed weapons permit. The card therefore represents the IPIU monitoring plus the state's monitoring to insure professional conduct of the investigator.

    For unlicensed and unregulated newcomers wishing to be employed by firms who offer on the job training under their professional license, the IPIU card can be used as a third-party to monitor professional conduct.

    Originally posted by David Leach
    I'm interested in the cost to benefit ratio of IPIU membership over state membership;
    Oregon fees:

    1) $79.00 for Part I of the Application to cover the cost of the application, examination and the qualifications and fingerprint background checks.

    2) Three (3) complete sets of fingerprints (at your own expense, if any, by your local law enforcement officer)

    3) $550 for a 2-year license. Renewal is same.

    4) Two identical photographs. (AAA Members can obtain these free)

    5) One of the following:

    a) $5000 Surety Bond or an Irrevocable Bank Letter of Credit for the amount of $5000.

    b) Errors and Omissions Insurance Policy. (See Member's Only forums for insurance quotes for your business)

    Benefit of license: Ability to advertise and perform private investigations independently or as an employee anywhere in the state.
    IPIU Membership and benefits:
    Click here:
    http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthrea...&threadid=6542

    Opinion:
    Although there are thousands of private investigators who work for law firms without having the expense of additional PI licensing, we feel this is a personal choice you will make. Ideally, we see both IPIU membership and a state issued license the key to a long-term professional career.
    Legal Affairs comments are not intended to be and should absolutely not be taken as legal advice. If you should require legal, tax, or financial advice, you must first enter into a written agreement with only a licensed professional for legal, tax, or financial services, signed by both you and the licensed professional, and paid a retainer in good funds. Legal Affairs is not, nor intends to be, nor solicits to be your licensed professional. Members accessing comments by Legal Affairs are required to be bound by their Terms of Use Agreement regarding Legal Affairs.

  19. #19
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
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    Oregon
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    Originally posted by Jim Ley
    [B]David,

    Don't confuse a membership in IPIU with a private investigator's license. They are two totally different animals.
    Aha! Thankyou for the clarification

    Oregon's licensing laws are probably similar to most other state's licensing laws. There may be exemptions to holding a private investigation license, but they are few and very specific in their nature.
    Very much aware of this already and in compliance with it.


    Don't be under the impression that you can work in all states for law firms as a independent contractor without benefit of a state license.
    Well sir, again; I am aware of this, and would make a thorough study of any Province or State I moved to

    If the nature of my work changes, I will follow through with the State licensing to be in Compliance with State Law.

    Legal Affairs; Thanks for the link

    David Leach
    "Just who IS this Dixon Hill guy,
    anyway?"

  20. #20
    Join Date
    Aug 2003
    Location
    Oregon
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    371

    Summing up Ore Lic law

    This is very intersting. You might want to check out the licencing laws from your own state. I realize this was put in earlier but this kinda puts it in summation form.

    Someone asked me about Oregons and I sent them to the State site for same. It costs $79.00 for the initial app and then a bond for $5,000 must be put up, and then a fee of $550.00 for license fee with a irrivocable letter of credit to accompany it. This is for a two year license. You must also have 1500 hours of documented hours of experience.

    Furthermore, you have to have three sets of prints and two identical photos. There is also a requirment for three professional letters of reference.

    The test is open book with 50 multiple choice questions.

    Here is further on the hours of experience:

    *Note: Applicants who do not meet the 1,500 hours experience requirement and who meet all other licensing requirements will be granted an investigator's license with a Provisional Endorsement. WHEN A PERSON WHO HAS BEEN ISSUED AN INVESTIGATOR'S LICENSE WITH A PROVISIONAL ENDORSEMENT HAS ACQUIRED THE EXPERIENCE OR EDUCATION DESCRIBED IN ORS 703.415(g), THE PERSON SHALL NOTIFY THE BOARD AND REQUEST THE REMOVAL OF THE ENDORSEMENT.

  21. #21
    Jason Hofmann's Avatar
    Jason Hofmann is offline *
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    Tthanks,
    Your information is very accurate and has been helpful in answering many question I had regarding licensing.

  22. #22
    Join Date
    Jul 2004
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    Oregon
    Posts
    47

    State fee as much as $550?

    I just want clarification. The state or Oregon can charge as much as $550 for me to get my private investigators license.

    Does anyone know how much it costs to get a permit to carry a concealed weapon?

    Also, would the $550 entitle me to do any kind of investigation. I am assuming the less expensive fees have restrictions on them.

  23. #23
    Damon Woodcock -'s Avatar
    Damon Woodcock - is offline Certified

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    Clarification for Mark

    Quote Originally Posted by Mark Neidert
    I just want clarification. The state or Oregon can charge as much as $550 for me to get my private investigators license.

    Does anyone know how much it costs to get a permit to carry a concealed weapon?

    Also, would the $550 entitle me to do any kind of investigation. I am assuming the less expensive fees have restrictions on them.
    Actually, the costs to obtain a PI license in Oregon include the $79.00 Application fee, the cost to get your fingerprints taken, the cost to obtain 2 identical passport style photos, the cost to obtain insurance, AND the $550 fee...from there on, you have to get your continuing education which may cost money, and pay the $550 every two years to maintain your license.

    You can also go the route of the "Operative". The bi-annual fee is cheaper, but then you must work for a P.I.

    I would guess that the cost to obtain a concealed weapons permit varies from county to county, and is issued by the County Sheriff's Office. In Multnomah County, the cost is: "The fee for a new application is $65.* The fee for a renewal application is $50.* Fees are non-refundable.* Acceptable payment is by check, money order or exact cash."



  24. #24
    Jason Hofmann's Avatar
    Jason Hofmann is offline *
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    Member of International Private Investigators Union (IPIU)
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    Thumbs up

    You can contact the OBI ( Oregon Board of Investigators ) at (503)731-4359 or WEB address is www.obi,state.or.us

    They will send you a packet with all the info you need. It is a three step process to get licensed.

    The first step is the app., a $79 fee, three professional letters of reference, and three sets of fingerprint cards, all of which they supply you in the packet.

    Step two is the exam of which they give you the information to study and the test is open book, open note.

    Step three is the licensure part. $550.00 to be exact. They only require you to pay this fee if they know for sure they are going to approve your application. You also have to provide a Surety Bond, Irrevolcable letter of credit, or Errors and Omissions Insurance.

    After all this, assuming you passed your test and background check whithout problems, they will issue you a license with a 'provisional' endorsement. Once you have worked 1500 hours, you will then notify the board and they will remove the provisional endorsment. At this point you are able to place adds in your name and operate on your own as a licensed PI. Until then you are only allowed to work with or under a licensed PI.

    Hope this helps and good luck,

    Jason Hofmann
    Badge # 9090

  25. #25
    Join Date
    Jul 2004
    Location
    Oregon
    Posts
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    Thumbs up

    Thanks Guys for all the great info.

    This makes my steps much easier for obtaining my license.

    Thanks again.
    Thomas W Simons
    Badge #10291

  26. #26

    Smile Oregon Licensing is much clearer now

    This was very helpful. I see the Oregon Board is the resource to becoming licensed. I look forward to working with law firms for now and hopefully become licensed in the future.
    Thank you for all the info on requirements, fees etc..

    Leni' (Lyn) Rutledge

  27. #27
    Join Date
    Dec 2004
    Location
    Oregon
    Posts
    13
    Thank you for posting the Oregon regulation. I am currently employed as a Private security site trainer. I have been in this position for about 1.5 years. I was a security supervisor for about 1 year prior to this. I want to know if the point regarding being a private security officer can apply for experience required to becoming licensed.

  28. #28
    Join Date
    Aug 1999
    Location
    National Office
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    2,586
    Quote Originally Posted by Steven M Brace
    Thank you for posting the Oregon regulation. I am currently employed as a Private security site trainer. I have been in this position for about 1.5 years. I was a security supervisor for about 1 year prior to this. I want to know if the point regarding being a private security officer can apply for experience required to becoming licensed.
    Request the full application to be mailed to you, along with all of the other documents. Their website is pretty thorough, including all of the exemptions to licensing.

    If you are a union member, you also have free access to acquiring your own Oregon Agency with no prior experience through the efforts of other IPIU union members who do have experience.

    Also, does Oregon view IPIU as acceptible course work for the certification process.
    No. But they do recognize qualified assignments that are referred by IPIU to it's union members to qualify for a license. Their board is rather new, as Oregon did not have a licensing board a few years ago. Their recent agenda is to raise the licensing fees after only a little time since they were appointed, which IPIU opposes. We do support and respect their authority to regulate, but only within the statutes their the lawmakers have instructed them to do so.

  29. #29
    Join Date
    Dec 2004
    Location
    Oregon
    Posts
    13

    Oregon License

    Just a follow-up. I have received my packet application for the state of Oregon. The procedure is pretty straight forward. Being that I am licensed as a security supervisor/manager/instructor I am exempt from having to get an investigators license. But, should I decide not to be involved with the security business then I would have to get my provisional license. Another area of exemption is working for only one employer as a representative. So the initial cost for the all requirements can be saved up if you place yourself in an exempt position. Once you have the funds, then apply for the PI license. And, if my understanding is correct the OBI may consider any security work requiring investigative skills to be counted towards the 1500 hour requirement. Hopefully, this will encourage others who are considering license applications in Oregon.

  30. #30
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    Washington
    Posts
    12

    Marion Picanco

    Now I am a little worried, I have been reading the posts and I just realized that to qualify for a provisional pi license in oregon you need to have completed schooling within 18 months of applying for your license. I graduated in 2001 with an associates in administration of justice, my question is am I going to have to return to school? I guess I am going to have to call the board in Oregon.....darn

  31. #31
    Join Date
    Jun 2004
    Location
    Oregon
    Posts
    53
    Hi Julia,
    Can you clarify one thing for me? I just received my IPIU ID card. When I initially filled out the ID request form, the instructions stated that I had to complete either the ID (Wants and Warrants) card or the FBI Fingerprint card, not both. I elected to complete the ID card only. Do I still need to fill out the FBI Fingerprint card?

    Thank you for any info you may have,
    Curt

  32. #32
    Join Date
    Jun 2004
    Location
    Oregon
    Posts
    53

    When is it required to be "licensed"?

    Hi Robert,
    Thank you and all the members who have replied to the PI license questions here. I now know when it is required regarding non licensed PI work. Can you tell me or direct me to, when it is required to do licensed PI work?

    Thanks again!
    Take care,
    Curtis Smith

  33. #33
    David Palmer's Avatar
    David Palmer is offline Licensed Private Investigator
    Private Investigator Forum Member

    Professional Management Member of:
    International Private Investigators Union (IPIU)
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Location
    California
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    Re: PI LICENSING: Oregon

    Greetings fellow Investigators,

    Has anyone applied for a reciprocal license in Oregon? The requirements for CA and OR are similar although the test for CA is 150 questions verses 50 and the hours of experience are 6,000 verses 1,500 so I would think CA license would satisfy OR requirements. What do you all think? Also what about CCW or exposed carry for PI's in OR?

    Dave

  34. #34
    David Copeland's Avatar
    David Copeland is offline Administrator
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    Re: PI LICENSING: Oregon

    Quote Originally Posted by David Palmer View Post
    Greetings fellow Investigators,

    Has anyone applied for a reciprocal license in Oregon? The requirements for CA and OR are similar although the test for CA is 150 questions verses 50 and the hours of experience are 6,000 verses 1,500 so I would think CA license would satisfy OR requirements. What do you all think? Also what about CCW or exposed carry for PI's in OR?

    Dave
    It's worth asking the Oregon Board, that's for sure.

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