How to Become a Private Investigator in Kentucky

If you want a job where you’re not stuck at a desk and get to work in various places, becoming a private investigator could be the right path for you.

This job means being out in the field, doing surveillance, talking to people, and collecting info to help solve personal or legal cases.

To get licensed in Kentucky as a private investigator, there are some steps you need to take.

We’ve put together a guide on what you need to do to enter this exciting field.

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Keep reading to learn how to become a private investigator in Kentucky.

Private Investigator Requirements and Responsibilities in Kentucky

In Kentucky, the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Private Investigators oversees professionals in this field.

This means they must be licensed to work.

To get licensed, you must pass a test and meet some requirements:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Have a clean record
• Apply for the test
• Pass the test
• Get some experience

Many investigators take courses to learn and gain experience.

If you’ve worked in law enforcement, you might not need to take a class.

You need at least 100 hours of experience.

Some basic tasks include:

• Watching people alone
• Recording events from a distance
• Taking good pictures from afar
• Staying healthy
• Knowing what clients need

Private Investigator Training in Kentucky

Having a background in law enforcement can be beneficial for this job.

In some cases, any degree could work for this role, even if it doesn’t seem directly related.

Taking specific classes can help you figure out what gear is essential and what’s not worth investing in.

Every private investigator might have their own set of tools, like maps, computers, binoculars, cameras, microphones, and vehicles.

You’ll also pick up useful skills like the NATO phonetic alphabet and common lingo.

So, where can you get your private investigator training?

Let’s take a look at some of the schools.

Boston University

This institution offers a wide range of courses in its Professional Investigation Program, covering everything you need to know about the profession.

The programs are designed to fit into busy schedules, with classes taught by experienced private investigators who are also licensed professionals.

You can choose between in-classroom or online training to suit your needs.

University of North Texas

At the University of North Texas, they offer a Certificate in Professional Private Investigations.

This program consists of a 200-hour course held at three different locations in Northern Texas.

The classes are taught by professionals currently working in the field, preparing students to take the Texas Private Investigator License Exam.

Becoming Licensed as a Private Investigator in Kentucky

To become a private investigator in Kentucky, all you need is a high school diploma or equivalent.

But having a degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field can boost your chances of getting a good position.

You don’t have to have previous experience, but if you’ve worked for a licensed private investigation company in Kentucky, that counts.

Once the Board gives you the green light, you can schedule your official license exam.

It’s a good idea to study the Kentucky Revised Statutes and Administrative Regulations to get ready for it.

To become a private investigator in Kentucky, you’ll need to pay a $100 fee to the State Treasurer for the application.

There’s also a $34.75 fee for getting the necessary fingerprint cards.

You’ll also need to submit several documents, including:

• The Kentucky P.I. application
• Three fingerprint cards
• Two color 2’’ x 2’’ photos of yourself
• A Criminal Background Check Form from the Administrative Office of the Courts
• A letter of endorsement from your current P.I. company if you have one

Once you’re licensed, you’ll need to renew it every two years by filling out a renewal form.

Salaries for Private Investigators in Kentucky

On average across the country, private investigators make about $50,902 each year.

In Kentucky, they typically earn around $47,902 annually.

This state offers many good career opportunities, so you will find your first job quite easily.

The salaries are also higher compared to other states.

Of course, how much you make varies and depends on where you live and your education level.

Check out the table below for cities where the salaries are higher.

Regional Salary in Kentucky

Private Investigator by State