How to Get a Private Investigator License in Maryland

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Overview

In this article, I’ll explain how to get a Private Investigator license in Maryland. First, I’ll explain how the government department handles the licensing process. Then, I’ll suggest joining an industry association and where to get training and education.

Maryland Private Investigator Licensing Requirements

The Maryland State Police PI Licensing Division handles Private Investigator Licensing in Maryland.  The Licensing Division is responsible for administering the law and conducting investigations concerning the licensing of Private Detectives, Private Detective Agencies, Security Guards and Security Guard Agencies, Security Systems Technicians, and Security Systems Agencies.

Following is the mailing address for the division:

Maryland Department of State Police
Support Services Bureau
Licensing Division
1111 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore MD 21208

Main Number ​410-653-​4500

Licensing Requirements

An applicant may be either an individual or a firm. An individual shall be of good character and reputation. If the applicant is a firm, each member shall be of good character and reputation. The individual or firm representative shall be at least 25 years old. All applicants shall meet the required experience outlined below:

  • At least five years of experience as a full-time certified or licensed private detective OR
  • At least Five years of experience as a full-time police officer with an organized police agency and completed successfully a police officer training course that is recognized and approved by the Maryland Police Training Commission; OR
  • At least three years of experience in an investigative capacity as a detective while serving as a police officer with an organized police agency OR
  • At least 3 years of experience in an investigative capacity in any unit of the United States, of the State, or of a county or municipal corporation of the State for law enforcement; and completed successfully the police officer training required by the Maryland Police Training Commission; OR
  • At least five years of experience as a full-time fire investigator for a fire department or law enforcement agency of the State or a county or municipal corporation of the State and successfully completed the training certified by the Maryland Police Training Commission or the Maryland Fire-Rescue Education and Training Commission.

Please note that requirements may change, so please visit the Maryland State Police website for the most up-to-date instructions related to the licensing application process. Other special licensing requirements such as education, experience, examinations, and insurance may be required.

Learn about licensing in other states:

The Private Investigator’s Licensing Handbook: How to Get a Private Investigator License in any State
Considering a career as a private investigator? Dive into this book to explore services offered, learn about the work environment, career prospects, and salaries. Discover state-specific licensing requirements, training resources, and industry associations. Already a PI? Use it to learn about licensing in other states. Also, agencies can guide new hires through the licensing process. This edition includes enhanced training recommendations, suggestions for starting a new business, how to join an association, and updated state information. It’s your essential starting point on the path to becoming a private investigator.

Maryland Private Investigator Associations

  • Professional Investigators Alliance of Maryland – Professional Investigators Alliance of Maryland (P.I.A.M.) was formed in 1994 by a group of professionals with common interests, goals, and needs. The Alliance advances the profession of certified investigators, representing the profession before the legislature, working to eliminate unreliable, incompetent, and unlicensed individuals, promoting and maintaining the highest ethical standards, and offering resources for continuing education. P.I.A.M represents private eye interests in the investigative industry in the State of Maryland.
  • Maryland Investigators and Security Association – An association of investigative and security professionals.

Additional Information

Private Investigator Training Resources – Improve your chances of getting licensed by completing a private investigator degree program, training course, or home study course. Learn what options are available to get the private investigation knowledge necessary to get licensed.

Find a Private Investigation Agency in Maryland – To find a private investigator in Maryland, visit our directory of private eyes and private investigation agencies. Our directory may also help you find a private investigation agency to sponsor you as a beginning private investigator.

Questions

If you have any questions about how to get a private investigator’s license in Maryland, please post a comment below.

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