A realistic look at licensing, training, and the path into private investigation.
Do you fall asleep watching true crime documentaries? Rewatch interrogation breakdowns? Pause episodes to argue your theory out loud? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you might be closer to a career in private investigation than you think.
My interest in private investigation started exactly there: true crime. Like many people, I was drawn to documentaries, investigative journalism, and real cases that focus on uncovering the truth and piecing together facts. Over time, that curiosity shifted from entertainment to a genuine interest in the real work behind investigations, the responsibility, ethics, and precision required when the stakes are real people, not a Netflix series.
I’m currently a senior at Middle Tennessee State University, majoring in Criminal Justice, and I now get to explore that interest firsthand through my internship with Covert Results. Working alongside professionals in the field has made one thing very clear: private investigation is not about fast-paced chases or dramatic reveals. It’s about patience, accuracy, attention to detail, and professionalism. The work happens quietly, methodically, and often behind the scenes, but it matters.
One of the biggest misconceptions about becoming a private investigator is that you must have prior law enforcement experience. In Tennessee, that simply isn’t true. The state does not require applicants to have law enforcement backgrounds or a specific college degree. Instead, individuals must meet eligibility requirements and pass a state licensing exam. While experience in law enforcement or the military can be helpful, many investigators enter the field through education, internships, mentorship, and supervised training with licensed firms.
In Tennessee, private investigators are licensed through the Department of Commerce and Insurance under the Private Investigation and Polygraph Commission. Licensed investigators may gather information related to criminal or civil matters, locate individuals or property, determine the cause of accidents or losses, and secure evidence for use in legal proceedings. Because this work involves sensitive information and legal standards, licensure ensures investigators operate ethically, legally, and professionally.
To qualify for a Tennessee Private Investigator license, applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Demonstrate good moral character
- Have no history of fraud or misrepresentation
- Be free from substance dependency
Investigators must either operate under a licensed private investigation firm or establish their own licensed company. These requirements help protect clients and preserve the profession’s integrity.
While Tennessee does not require a specific degree, successful investigators rely heavily on analytical thinking, research skills, and attention to detail. These skills can be developed through education, hands-on training, mentorship, or professional experience. Many effective private investigators come from diverse backgrounds. What matters most is the ability to think critically, stay organized, and follow facts wherever they lead.
After meeting the eligibility requirements, applicants must prepare for the Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Examination. The exam is two hours long, consists of 50 questions, and is based on The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Private Investigating.
Exam registration steps:
- Create an account with PSI Exams
- Select Government/State Licensing Agencies
- Choose Tennessee
- Select Private Investigator / Polygraph
- Download the Candidate Information Bulletin
- Pay the $125 examination fee
- Schedule the exam at an approved testing location
Applicants must bring two forms of identification on exam day and earn a passing score of at least 70%.
Tennessee also requires digital fingerprinting, which must be scheduled through IdentoGO under the Department of Commerce and Insurance. Fingerprints are submitted directly to the state for processing.
After passing the exam and completing fingerprinting, applicants must submit a license application through Core.TN.gov, including:
- Application fee: $150
- Fingerprint processing fee: $60
- License fee: $100
- Proof of fingerprint submission
- Two color passport-style photographs
- A letter of endorsement or affiliation from a licensed private investigation firm
- Disclosure of any criminal arrests, charges, or convictions
Tennessee also offers an apprenticeship option for private investigators seeking supervised experience. While licensed investigators may work independently, many new investigators choose to affiliate with an established firm to gain training, mentorship, and real-world experience before launching their own practice.
Private investigation isn’t about constant action or dramatic moments. It’s about accuracy, persistence, and professionalism. While it may not look like television, uncovering critical information, supporting legal cases, and helping people find answers can have a very real and meaningful impact.
For me, private investigation has been about turning a long-standing curiosity into a clear, achievable career path, one built on education, preparation, and hands-on experience.
Covert Results is the premier private investigations, armed security, cyber security, and training company you’ve been searching for. Our team of highly skilled experts has amassed over 100 years of experience in all fields, from investigations to security concerns. Being a member and working within a global network called The Entrepreneurs Organization allows us to provide excellent service anywhere on Earth – truly bringing peace of mind through our world class services! Be sure to follow @CovertResults across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the latest information regarding investigator expertise as well as lighthearted moments shared by our community! If you need us to guide you to that peace of mind you are looking for, call or text 615-861-1680 or email contact@covertresults.com.
