How to Become a Private Investigator in Florida: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

⭐ 1. Understand Florida’s PI Licensing System

Florida regulates private investigators through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The state issues several PI-related licenses, but beginners typically start with:

• Class “CC” – Private Investigator Intern License (Entry Level)

This allows you to work under a fully licensed PI (Class C) while gaining experience.

• Class “C” – Private Investigator License

This is the full license required to work independently.

⭐ 2. Meet the Minimum Requirements

To qualify for any PI license in Florida, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident

• Have a clean criminal record (no felonies or disqualifying misdemeanors)

• Be mentally and physically capable of performing PI duties

⭐ 3. Complete the Required Training

To become a private investigator in Florida, you must complete approved training:

✔ 40 Hours of Professional Investigator Training

Required for the Class CC Intern License.

✔ 2 Years of Investigative Experience or Equivalent Training

Required for the Class C License.
Experience may include:

• Law enforcement

• Military intelligence

• Insurance investigations

• PI intern work hours

• Criminal justice degree (partial credit)

Most new investigators get their required experience by working under a licensed PI agency after receiving their Class CC license.

⭐ 4. Submit Your Application

You must apply through FDACS, providing:

Required Documents:

• Completed license application

• Proof of training

• Fingerprints (background check)

• Passport-style photo

• Application fee

💰 Florida PI License Costs

Fees may vary slightly by county or service provider.

⭐ 5. Pass the State PI Exam (Class C License)

Once FDACS approves your application, you must pass a state examination covering:

• Florida PI laws and ethics

• Surveillance guidelines

• Report writing

• Investigative procedures

Passing the exam officially qualifies you for your Class C Private Investigator License.

⭐ 6. Gain Experience by Working for a PI Agency

New investigators typically start under a licensed agency (Class A license).
You will gain skills in:

• Surveillance

• Criminal background checks

• Workers’ comp investigations

• Missing persons

• Fraud detection

• Domestic/infidelity cases

This experience helps you build credibility and prepares you to eventually run your own agency.

⭐ 7. Optional: Start Your Own PI Agency (Class A License)

To open your own Florida PI business, you need:

• A Class C license

• Two years of professional PI experience

• A physical business location

• Business licensing and insurance

Running an agency allows you to hire other PIs and charge premium rates.

💰 Private Investigator Salary in Florida

Florida PIs earn competitive pay:

• Average Salary: $52,000–$70,000 per year

• Experienced PI/Agency Owner: $80,000–$120,000+

• High-demand areas: Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville

Specialized investigators (fraud, cyber, insurance) earn higher rates.

⭐ Why Become a Private Investigator in Florida?

Florida is one of the best states for PIs because:

• High volume of insurance and fraud investigations

• Large tourism industry

• Booming legal and corporate sectors

• Strong demand for surveillance professionals

• Clear state licensing requirements

📌 Final Thoughts

Becoming a private investigator in Florida requires training, experience, and proper licensing—but the career offers strong income potential, independence, and the satisfaction of helping people uncover the truth.

If you follow the steps above, you can earn your Florida PI license and start building a successful investigative career.