How to become a private investigator in Connecticut
Connecticut private investigators are licensed by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Connecticut, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Connecticut?
- At least 25 years old for a private detective license (employee investigators must be at least 18)
- Good moral character
- High school diploma or GED
- U.S. citizen or green card holder
- No disqualifying convictions; cannot currently hold police powers
- A $10,000 performance surety bond and a $300,000 general liability insurance policy are required for a license.
Connecticut private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Connecticut licenses private detectives. Investigators who work for a licensed agency must be registered with DESPP by their employer. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit |
| License name | Private Detective License (employees: Private Investigator registration) |
| Education or training | High school diploma or equivalent. Approved coursework may substitute for up to one year of experience. |
| Experience | 5 years full-time as a licensed detective, registered investigator or government investigator, or 10 years as a police officer (needed for your own license; not for agency employees). |
| Exam | No written exam is listed; an oral interview is part of the background process. |
| License term | 2 years. |
How much does it cost?
| Individual private detective license, initial (2 years) | $1,450.00 |
|---|---|
| Individual private detective renewal (2 years) | $625.00 |
| Employee investigator registration (one-time, per employee) | $40.00 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a private investigator in Connecticut
- Option A: get hired by a licensed agency, which registers you with DESPP ($40 plus background checks)
- Option B (own license): build 5 years of qualifying experience
- Complete and notarize form DPS-366-C
- Get fingerprinted through FLEXCHECK and gather photos, driving record, credit report, education and citizenship proof
- Have four character reference letters sent to DESPP
- Post the bond and insurance, then complete the oral interview
- Pay the $1,450 license fee and renew every 2 years
Apply on the official Connecticut site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Connecticut?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.