How to become a private investigator in Maine
Maine private investigators are licensed by the Maine State Police, Weapons and Professional Licensing (Special Investigations Unit). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Maine, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Maine?
- At least 21
- U.S. citizen or resident alien
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Good moral character; no crime punishable by 1+ year in prison
- No dishonorable military discharge
- Experience: investigative assistant program, 3 years federal or law enforcement investigation, 3 years licensed in a reciprocal state, or 6 years combined work and education
- Certifications from 3 reputable Maine citizens who have known you 3+ years
- Surety bond of $10,000 (resident) or $50,000 (nonresident), plus liability insurance of at least $10,000/$100,000/$200,000.
Maine private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Maine licenses professional investigators and investigative assistants through the State Police. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Maine State Police, Weapons and Professional Licensing (Special Investigations Unit) |
| License name | Professional Investigator License |
| Education or training | No set course. An investigative assistant must complete 1,200 hours of training within the 2-year assistant license to qualify. |
| Experience | Investigative assistant program (1,200 hours of training), 3 years federal or law enforcement investigation, 3 years licensed in a reciprocal state, or 6 years combined work and education. |
| Exam | Must pass a State Police exam on private investigation subjects. |
| License term | Initial term 2 years, then renewable every 4 years |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (includes $21 criminal history check) | $71 |
|---|---|
| Fee on issuance of license | $450 |
| 4-year renewal (statute) | $500 |
| Investigative assistant license (statute) | $600 |
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 Maine
- Meet the experience rule, or work as a sponsored investigative assistant for 1,200 hours
- Complete the new professional investigator application packet
- Get 3 citizen certifications and notarize the application
- Send the packet with the $71 fee and supporting documents
- Pass the State Police exam and pay the $450 issuance fee
- File the surety bond and proof of insurance
Apply on the official Maine site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Maine?
- Search the name or license number on the official Maine private investigator license lookup.
- 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.