How to Become a Private Investigator in Kansas

Private detectives provide diverse services to businesses and individuals, helping them gather information on legal, financial, or personal matters.

Nationwide, there are about 1,100 job openings for private investigators each year.

For those in Kansas interested in this field, it’s crucial to understand the state’s licensure requirements.

Each state has its own set of expectations, so ensure you meet Kansas’ criteria to qualify for a position.

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Private Investigator Requirements and Responsibilities in Kansas

In Kansas, private investigators are regulated by the Kansas Private Investigation Board, which mandates obtaining a license to practice.

To secure this license, individuals must fulfill specific criteria, including:

• Being at least 21 years old,
• A U.S. citizen,
• Having clean personal and criminal records.

A $100,000 deposit with the Kansas State Treasurer is an acceptable form of insurance you will need.

Applicants need to apply for and pass the PI licensure test, in addition to gaining practical experience in the field.

While some choose to enroll in courses to gain experience, having prior law enforcement experience can sometimes serve as a substitute for training.

A minimum of 100 hours of experience is required for licensure, with duties including:

• Surveillance
• Remote event documentation
• High-quality photography
• Maintaining good health
• Understanding client needs

Private Investigator Training in Kansas

Here are the basic requirements for becoming a private investigator in Kansas:

• At least 21 years old.
• A background check is mandatory, with no felony or misdemeanor convictions within the past ten years.
• No drug or alcohol addictions.
• No mental impairments hindering job performance.
• High school diploma or a GED

Candidates also need one of the following:

• A $100,000 corporate surety bond,
• Liability insurance with $100,000 coverage,
• $100,000 deposit with the Kansas State Treasurer

Let’s see where you can get the training needed to work as a private investigator.

University of Washington

The Certificate in Private Investigation program at the University of Washington is designed to cater to both newcomers and experienced legal professionals.

It offers courses tailored to fit busy schedules, providing a comprehensive education in private investigation.

To qualify for the program, applicants need a minimum of two years of college experience or up to four years of relevant work experience, as well as proficiency in English.

Details about the program’s courses can be found on various state university websites and professional training agencies catering to aspiring private investigators.

PI Education

This institution offers a fully online pre-licensing course lasting 70 hours.

Upon completion, students will earn 70 credit hours.

Enrollment requires a tuition fee of $399.

You’ll be learning about:

• The Fundamentals Of Georgia Criminal Procedure
• An Introduction To The Georgia Rules Of Evidence
• Courtroom Testimony
• Sources Of Information
• Surveillance & Observation
• Undercover Operations

Becoming Licensed as a Private Investigator in Kansas

Whether you’re joining a private investigator agency or starting your own, you’ll fill out the same application form.

However, if you’re becoming an agency owner, there’s an extra application.

Take the Private Detective Licensing Act Exam.

It covers the Act itself, Kansas Administrative Regulations, and Criminal Use of Weapons laws.

Arrange $100,000 in one of these forms:

• Corporate surety bond
• General liability insurance
• Cash deposit with the State Treasurer

If you plan to carry a firearm, meet these requirements:

• Complete a 16-hour training course on firearm use.
• Pass a shooting test.
• Pay a $50 permit fee.

When submitting your application to the Attorney General in Topeka, remember to include the following:

• Completed application form
• Passed Private Detective Licensing Act Exam
• Fingerprint cards and background investigation permission
• Evidence of surety bond, insurance, or cash deposit
• Proof of education
• DD 214 for military service members
• Five personal references from U.S. citizens who have known you for at least five years
• $250 fee for an agency or independent work
• $100 fee for agency owners

Maintaining your practice in Kansas involves renewing your license every two years.

If you carry a firearm, you must also complete a firearm training course every two years.

To complete these tasks, submit the following to the Attorney General:

• $175 fee and PI renewal application
• $50 fee and firearms permit renewal application if carrying a weapon

Salaries for Private Investigators in Kansas

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, private detectives and investigators in Kansas earn an average yearly salary of $48,502.

One thing to know is that your earnings will depend on certain factors, including your area and your experience.

For a better overview of how much you can earn as a private investigator in Kansas, check out the following table.

Private Investigator by State