Louisiana Private Investigator License

Starting your PI business requires some patience. You have to read all rules carefully before applying for the Louisiana private investigator license. It is very important to fill in the form correctly. Any false information may lead to automatic disqualification. This may also happen if there is evidence of drug or alcohol addiction. So, let’s check the rules.

Choosing the right application

Above all, it is necessary to choose which one you need. The local state board examines the candidates. This board is responsible for handing over any type of permit. There are instructions for individuals working for LSBPIE. A person starting a business must apply for a business permit.

Overall the types are the following:

• Agency
• Individual
• Apprentice
• Journeyman

Apprentice allows a detective to work for 12 months only. This document is not renewable. A journeyman permit authorizes you to provide services to an agency. Overall, the qualifications for it are the same as in the case of an individual permit.

Who is eligible for Louisiana Private Investigator License?

The main requirements do not generally differ from other states. You have to meet the following:

• to be at least 18
• to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• not to have a conviction in any jurisdiction
• not to be a drug or alcohol addict.

The authorities, however, will assess if your expertise is enough to apply. Unless there is sufficient information, the board may ask for more details. Moreover, in some cases, the applicants have to pass an interview. The agency certification requires the applicant to have 3 years of experience. Working as a private investigator within the last 10 years is enough.

There is a checklist for any application. Be sure you completed it before submitting it. The package of documents includes

• A photo
• Driver’s permit
• Fingerprint cards
• Fee
• Exam results

The processing period for a document is 2-3 months. Note that the board accepts hand-delivered forms only. Both typing and printing of the data are acceptable. In case of an incorrectly filled form, you will get your application back. This delays the licensing process.

Charges for Louisiana Private Investigator License

Now let’s check the costs. They vary as per the type of authorization. The individual and apprentice variants will cost $189.52. The initial total fees for an agency and journeyman permit are $339.25. Both money orders and checks will do. Bear in mind that the fees are non-refundable.

Be careful not to miss the renewal expiration date. Annual renewal depends on the kind of document. It can cost $100 or $250. The detective has also to provide proof of not being convicted during the past year.

Examination

Although no degree is mandatory, you have to pass training. All applicants should complete a course. It consists of 40 hours and prepares you for the PI exam. It features such topics as Louisiana laws, safety procedures, etc. You are free to choose any of the approved colleges. The course schedule is always available on the LSBPOIE website.

LSBPIE approves the online instruction course every two years. It is available on the website and is free of charge.
Once you are familiar with laws and regulations take an exam. You have to pay $50. The necessary score is 75% or higher. Even if you failed it, don’t worry much. You have two attempts within a 12-month period. It is possible to retake it in 30 days. This cost an additional $25.