How to become a private investigator in Massachusetts
Massachusetts private investigators are licensed by the Massachusetts State Police, Certification Unit. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Massachusetts, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Massachusetts law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a private investigator in Massachusetts?
- Good moral character
- No felony conviction in any state
- No conviction under the state wiretap law (c. 272 §99 or 99A)
- 3 years as a detective doing investigative work, former federal investigator, former police officer above patrolman, or 10 years as a police officer
- Certifications from 3 reputable Massachusetts citizens who have known you 3+ years
- $5,000 surety bond.
Massachusetts private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. A state license is required to run a private detective business; employees of a licensee are exempt. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Massachusetts State Police, Certification Unit |
| License name | Private Detective License |
| Experience | 3 years as a detective doing investigative work, former federal investigator, former police officer above patrolman, or 10 years as a police officer. |
| License term | 1 year |
Steps to become a private investigator in Massachusetts
- Confirm you meet the experience requirement
- Get 3 citizen certifications
- File the sworn application with the State Police Certification Unit
- Post the $5,000 surety bond and pay the fee
- Renew every year
How do you check a private investigator's license in Massachusetts?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Massachusetts State Police, Certification 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.