How to become a private investigator in New Jersey
New Jersey private investigators are licensed by the New Jersey State Police, Private Detective Unit. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in New Jersey, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in New Jersey?
- At least 25 years old
- U.S. citizen
- Not an active law enforcement officer or investigator
- Pass a fingerprint-based background check
- File a surety bond (NJSP posts $3,000 and $5,000 bond forms)
New Jersey private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Private detectives must be licensed by the New Jersey State Police under the Private Detective Act of 1939. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | New Jersey State Police, Private Detective Unit |
| License name | Private Detective License |
| Experience | At least 5 years as an investigator for a licensed agency, a police officer with a state, county or municipal department, or an investigator with a U.S. or state investigative agency. |
| License term | 2 years; renewal form SP-415 due at least two weeks before expiration |
How much does it cost?
| Initial license, individual | $250.00 |
|---|---|
| Initial license, Inc/LLC/partnership | $300.00 |
| Renewal, individual | $200.00 |
| Renewal, Inc/LLC/partnership | $250.00 |
| Initial fingerprints | $66.05 |
| Private detective fingerprint renewal | $26.05 |
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 New Jersey
- Confirm you have 5 years of qualifying investigative or police experience
- Complete application SP-171 with employer experience affirmations
- Get fingerprinted through IdentoGo
- Obtain the required surety bond
- Mail the notarized application and fee (no personal checks) to the NJSP Private Detective Unit
- Renew every 2 years with form SP-415
Apply on the official New Jersey site
How do you check a private investigator's license in New Jersey?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the New Jersey State Police, Private Detective 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.