Private Investigator License Requirements in Georgia

Yes — to operate a private investigator business in Georgia, you need a Georgia Private Detective Company License from Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. The license costs approximately ~$400 company application/license; employee registration fees additional and renews every 2 years. Key requirements include: Be at least 18 years old (25 for company license in some cases) with a clean record and Document 2 years of investigative experience or a criminal justice degree plus 1 year of experience.

Georgia Private Investigator License at a Glance

• License: Georgia Private Detective Company License
• Regulator: Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies
• Estimated fee: ~$400 company application/license; employee registration fees additional
• Renewal period: 2 years
• Processing time: 4-8 weeks
• Last verified: 2026-07-17

Key Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old (25 for company license in some cases) with a clean record
• Document 2 years of investigative experience or a criminal justice degree plus 1 year of experience
• Pass GBI/FBI fingerprint background checks
• Obtain general liability insurance ($25,000 minimum) or a surety bond
• Register all employed detectives with the Board
• Submit the company application to the Georgia Board

How to Apply for a Private Investigator License in Georgia

1. Gain 2 years of investigative experience (or a criminal justice degree plus 1 year)
2. Complete fingerprinting for GBI and FBI background checks
3. Obtain the required liability insurance or bond
4. Submit the Private Detective Company application to the Board
5. Register your employees and renew every 2 years

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Private Investigator businesses in Georgia need a Georgia Private Detective Company License issued by Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies before operating. Operating without it can result in fines, business closure, and legal liability.

How do I get a private investigator license in Georgia?

To obtain a private investigator license in Georgia, you must: Be at least 18 years old (25 for company license in some cases) with a clean record, Document 2 years of investigative experience or a criminal justice degree plus 1 year of experience, Pass GBI/FBI fingerprint background checks. The license is issued by Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies and typically costs ~$400 company application/license; employee registration fees additional.

How much does a private investigator license cost in Georgia?

A private investigator license in Georgia costs approximately ~$400 company application/license; employee registration fees additional. This fee covers the initial application. Renewal occurs every 2 years.

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

Processing time for a Georgia private investigator license is typically 4-8 weeks. Processing times may vary based on application completeness and background check requirements.

Who regulates private investigator businesses in Georgia?

Private Investigator businesses in Georgia are regulated by Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. They oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement for this industry.