Learn How to Get a Private Investigator License in Ohio
This article explains how to get a private investigator’s license in Ohio. The article provides contact information for the state licensing authority and links to essential documents. In addition, it provides recommendations for joining a state private investigator association, where to find a job, and how to get training.
State Licensing Authority
The Ohio Department of Private Investigator and Security Guard Services handles private investigator licensing in Ohio. Visit the website for details on licensing requirements and to download the necessary forms and applications for becoming a private investigator in Ohio.
Licensing Authority Contact Information
To contact the state licensing authority, please use the following contact information:
Ohio Department of Private Investigator and Security Guard Services (PISGS)
PO Box 182001
Columbus, OH 43218-2001
Website
General Licensing Requirements
Visit the website for specific licensing information, application forms, insurance, fees, and special licensing requirements. Click on the link titled “How to Apply for a License” on the left navigation. There, you will find the latest steps you must complete to apply.
View the document Private Investigator Security Guard Services Laws and Rules document. Also, refer to the License Reference Guide for more information about the licensing process.
Ohio Private Investigator Associations
Once you obtain a license, we recommend that you join one of the following private investigator associations in the state:
- Ohio Association of Security & Investigative Services – Founded in 1947 and incorporated in 1954 as the Ohio Association of Private Detective Agencies, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation, OASIS serves Private Security and Investigation Professionals with news, information, and members’ contact information.
- Ohio Investigator’s Association OIA) – Founded in 1992, the OIA is a professional organization of state investigators, compliance, and law enforcement personnel dedicated to encouraging professionalism and cooperation between members and their agencies.
List of Private Investigation Agencies in Ohio
If you’re ready to seek employment, visit Ohio Private Investigator Directory. Our directory lists existing private investigators and investigation agencies in Ohio. Contact each agency to inquire about open positions.
Additional Information
Training Resources – Improve your chances of obtaining a license in Wisconsin by completing a degree or certification program, training course, or home study course. Learn what options are available to get the investigative knowledge necessary to get licensed.
Questions and Comments
If you have any questions or comments about how to get a private investigator’s license in Ohio, please post a message below.
Is there any actual training or schooling? I’m confused. In order to get licensed what do you do?
There is no specific training mentioned in the list of requirements, but you do need work experience. Work experience is basically on-the-job training. Visit the Ohio Private Investigator and Security Guard Services website linked above. From that page, click on “How to Apply for a License” on the left navigation. Then, view the section on experience requirements. Also, the exam is based on the FAQ’s, the state’s legal code for private investigators, and the administrative code. So, you’ll want to study those.