How to become a private investigator in New York
New York private investigators are licensed by the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in New York, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in New York?
- At least 25 years old
- Be a principal in the business entity
- Pass the PI written exam within 2 years before applying
- Fingerprinting
- Proof of a $10,000 surety bond
- If you employ security guards, liability insurance of at least $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 aggregate
- May not hold or control an employment agency license
New York private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Private investigators must be licensed by the NYS Department of State (GBL Article 7). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services |
| License name | Private Investigator License |
| Experience | 3 years of full-time investigative experience (with a licensed PI, as a proprietary investigator, or with a government or police investigative agency), 3 years of equivalent experience, or 20 years as a NYS police officer or fire marshal. |
| Exam | Walk-in multiple-choice exam, 2.5 hours, pass/fail, results valid for 2 years; covers license law, penal and criminal procedure law, investigative techniques and report writing. |
How much does it cost?
| Written exam | $15 |
|---|---|
| Initial application, individual | $400 |
| Initial application, corporate/business | $500 |
| Renewal, individual | $400 |
| Renewal, corporate/business | $500 |
| Late renewal penalty | $100 |
| Support staff fingerprinting (payable to IDEMIA) | $88.50 |
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 York
- Gain 3 years of qualifying investigative experience
- Pass the $15 walk-in PI exam
- Get fingerprinted
- Obtain a $10,000 surety bond
- Mail the application (DOS-0075), exam pass notice, bond and fee to the Division of Licensing Services
Apply on the official New York site
How do you check a private investigator's license in New York?
- Search the name or license number on the official New York 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.