How to become a private investigator in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has no statewide private investigator license. Here is what it takes to work as a private investigator in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a private investigator in Pennsylvania?
- At least 25 years old
- U.S. citizen
- No felony conviction or listed offenses such as weapons, burglary tools, stolen property, drug offenses or simple assault, unless pardoned
- Good character, competency and integrity
- Approval by five reputable citizens who have known you at least five years
- Fingerprints and passport-size photos
- $10,000 corporate surety bond
Pennsylvania private investigator license requirements
| State license | No statewide license. No state agency licenses private investigators. Under the Private Detective Act of 1953, the court of common pleas (clerk of courts) in the county of your main office issues the license. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | County court of common pleas (clerk of courts), under the Private Detective Act of 1953 |
| License name | Private Detective License (county) |
| Experience | At least three years as a regularly employed detective, U.S. government investigator, sheriff, Pennsylvania State Police member, or city police officer above the rank of patrolman, shown by two acknowledged certificates. |
| License term | 2 years for the first license; renewals may be issued for up to 5 years |
How much does it cost?
| License fee, individual (paid to the county) | $200 |
|---|---|
| License fee, partnership, association or corporation | $300 |
| Surety bond | $10,000 |
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 Pennsylvania
- Confirm you meet the age and three-year experience requirements
- Get two certificates proving your experience
- Have five reputable citizens sign the certificate of approval
- Get a $10,000 corporate surety bond
- File the verified application, photos and fingerprints with the clerk of courts in your county
- Pay the license fee after the court approves
How do you check a private investigator's license in Pennsylvania?
- 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.