Private Investigator License Requirements in Florida

Yes — to operate a private investigator business in Florida, you need a Florida Class "C" Private Investigator License from Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Division of Licensing. The license costs approximately $75 application + $75 license (Class C); Class A agency $455 and renews every 2 years. Key requirements include: Be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or legal resident and Document 2 years (40 hours/week) of investigative experience, or complete a Class "CC" internship.

Florida Private Investigator License at a Glance

• License: Florida Class "C" Private Investigator License
• Regulator: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Division of Licensing
• Estimated fee: $75 application + $75 license (Class C); Class A agency $455
• Renewal period: 2 years
• Processing time: 30-90 days
• Last verified: 2026-07-17

Key Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Document 2 years (40 hours/week) of investigative experience, or complete a Class "CC" internship
• Pass FDACS fingerprint-based background check
• Class "A" Private Investigative Agency license required to operate a firm ($300,000 liability coverage)
• Complete required coursework for interns (Class CC)
• Submit application and fees to FDACS Division of Licensing

How to Apply for a Private Investigator License in Florida

1. Choose your path: 2 years of investigative experience, or start as a Class "CC" intern under a licensed agency
2. Complete required intern coursework if using the internship route
3. Submit fingerprints for the FDACS background check
4. Apply for the Class "C" Private Investigator license with fees
5. To run your own firm, also obtain the Class "A" Private Investigative Agency license with required insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to run a private investigator business in Florida?

Yes. Private Investigator businesses in Florida need a Florida Class "C" Private Investigator License issued by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Division of Licensing before operating. Operating without it can result in fines, business closure, and legal liability.

How do I get a private investigator license in Florida?

To obtain a private investigator license in Florida, you must: Be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or legal resident, Document 2 years (40 hours/week) of investigative experience, or complete a Class "CC" internship, Pass FDACS fingerprint-based background check. The license is issued by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Division of Licensing and typically costs $75 application + $75 license (Class C); Class A agency $455.

How much does a private investigator license cost in Florida?

A private investigator license in Florida costs approximately $75 application + $75 license (Class C); Class A agency $455. This fee covers the initial application. Renewal occurs every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a private investigator license in Florida?

Processing time for a Florida private investigator license is typically 30-90 days. Processing times may vary based on application completeness and background check requirements.

Who regulates private investigator businesses in Florida?

Private Investigator businesses in Florida are regulated by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Division of Licensing. They oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement for this industry.