The law for a Texas private investigator license is within the Texas Occupations Code Title 10. Like most government legislation, this code is long and dry, but I will try to clarify what you need in here. The Texas Private Security Board, or simply known as the “board” issues licenses to investigation companies, investigators and security services contractors. The board has the power to determine the necessary qualifications. Below are 9 simple steps to obtain your Texas private investigator license.
1. You Must be at Least 18 Years Old
The code is specific about this requirement. However, unlike the state of Florida, there is no mention of a US citizenship requirement. Texas is typically a very business-friendly state!
2. You Must Not Have Been Charged With a Class A or B Misdemeanor or Felony
Specifically, you must not have been charged at the time of your Texas private investigator license application. However, you cannot have felony convictions.
3. You Must Not Have Been Found by a Court to be Impotent by a Mental Defect or Disease
This requirement does not apply if you have been restored to competency.
4. You Must Not Have Been Dishonorably Discharged From The United States Armed Services
This disqualification includes a discharge under other conditions that the board determines to be prohibited.
5. You Must Not Have Been Required to Register in Texas or Other State as a Sex Offender
The code indicates that the applicant could appeal license denial if the sole basis of the denial is
- A registration as a sex offender
- The status as a sex offender is not based on a criminal conviction that would make the applicant ineligible (under Section 1702.113 or 1702.163) and
- The applicant waives a right to a hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings.
6. For a Texas Private Investigator License, You Must Meet Education or Experience Requirements
For a private investigations company license you must meet any of the following:
- Three consecutive years of investigation related experience;
- A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related course of study;
- A bachelor’s degree with twelve months of investigation related experience;
- An associate degree in criminal justice or related course of study, with twenty-four months of investigation related experience;
- A specialized course of study directly designed for and related to the private investigation profession. This course of study must be taught and presented through affiliation with a four-year college or university. Such university must be accredited and recognized by the State of Texas. This course of study must be endorsed by the four-year college or university’s department of criminal justice program. It must also include a departmental faculty member(s) on its instructional faculty. This course of study must consist of a minimum of 200 hundred instructional hours. These must also include ethics, the Texas Privacy Security Act, and chapter 1702 (Texas Occupations Code)
- Other combinations of education and investigation related experience may be substituted for the above (at the discretion of the department or its designated representative)
The degrees above degrees must be affiliated with a college or university recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, or other accreditation organization recognized by the State of Texas.
7. Pass the Texas Private Investigator License Exam
In Texas, this test is known as the “Manager’s Exam”. It is a written exam administered by Texas Department of Public Safety. The minimum score to obtain a Texas private investigator license is 70%. An oral examination can be made available if the applicant has proof of dyslexia.
8. Pay a Variety of Fees
Registration for Private Investigator – $30
Preliminary criminal history check and evaluation letter – $100
Criminal History Check – $31.50
FBI Fingerprint Check – $25
Assignment of License – $150
Click here for other fees
9. If You Are Active Duty Military or a Veteran, Take Advantage of Benefits
Texas is well-known for being military-friendly. Similar to Florida military benefits, Texas private investigator license applicants (qualified active duty, veterans, active military spouse) may have their fees waived. Applicants will be responsible for the subscription fee, pocket card fee, and the FBI fee.
Ready to apply for a license? Texas DPS has a portal to apply online!
Are you applying or have applied for a Texas private investigator license?
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The FBI only charged $18.00 for fingerprints verification. Why is it $25.00