Do Private Investigators Need a License in The UK?

Private investigator licensing, or lack thereof, in the UK, has been a contentious issue for a while. There are many people who believe licensing should be mandatory for all private investigators.

There have been efforts to implement private investigator licenses in the past. However, these efforts have fallen short at the final step with a private investigator license not being mandatory at present.

To become a licensed private investigator in the UK, you'll just need to have the following:

• Evidence that you're 18 or older
• Proof that you've completed the required training by attaining an IQ Level 3 Award for Private Detectives
• Right to work
• A criminal record that doesn't conflict with the role of a private investigator
• Proof of mental fitness

Private Investigators, although not legally requiring licensing, should look to obtain licenses that support private investigator practices. These private investigator licenses in the UK can include manned guarding licenses, door supervisors, close protection operatives, and public space surveillance (CCTV) operators. These licenses can be obtained through the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and the SIA is also looking to implement private investigator licensing which covers the practices of a private investigator.

Obtaining and upholding a valid private investigator license will allow a private investigator to carry out their profession in a proper manner, and private investigators that hold current licenses should find it easier to obtain the correct licenses when the UK laws do change.