How to become a private detective?

The use of private detective firms is becoming more and more popular. Many individuals and professionals use their services, which has undoubtedly encouraged the emergence of vocations. Contrary to what one might think, being a private investigator cannot be improvised. Training as a private detective is necessary to be able to practice. But before you commit to it, it is important to understand what this profession is.

What does the job of a private detective consist of?

The private research agent better known as a private detective is a person responsible for collecting information or intelligence intended for third parties to defend their interests. Explaining the exercise of this liberal profession in this way seems obvious, but it is not. Solid training as a private detective is essential to be able to carry out the various missions that will be entrusted to you.

a detective must be able to intervene with both individuals and professionals to provide evidence that will allow them to uncover the truth. In the case of individuals, it is most often cases of divorce, debtor tracing, infidelity, or disappearance. Professionals, for their part, very often call on detective agencies for cases of unfair competition, to carry out counter-espionage or to monitor staff.

Detective training therefore helps to prepare oneself as best as possible for what the reality of this profession is. Far from the clichés conveyed by films, series, and cartoons, carrying weapons, certain types of wiretapping and access to personal data are prohibited. You will therefore have to find other ways to enter the private lives of others without infringing on their privacy. Receiving the right teachings will be very useful to you in this regard.

Private detective training

You don’t become a private investigator on the job. This profession requires private detective training to better understand the keys to the profession. It is at the end of this 2 or 3 year training that it is possible to obtain an approved diploma registered in the national directory of professional certification. Only former police or national gendarmerie officials can do without training. However, practicing the profession of private detective will only be possible five years after leaving their job.

To follow your private detective training, you have the choice between several establishments in France. Among these is the Institut de Formation des Agents de Recherche. It is possible to specialize in a specific field or to be a generalist. Whatever the case, to practice legally you will need the approvals issued by the National Commission for Professional Certification. This organization is also competent to suspend approvals, support private investigators, and ensure that private detectives comply with ethics.

Qualities expected of a private detective

Training as a private detective and approval from the National Commission for Professional Certification are essential to practice. However, they are not enough to make you a good detective. You should also know that private detectives are subject to professional secrecy. Under Article 226-13 of the Penal Code, you must exercise discretion before, during, and after each mission at the risk of receiving a fine or imprisonment.

A good detective must also have good interpersonal skills and communicate easily. You will need these qualities to approach individuals without arousing suspicion and to get them to confide in you that will help your investigation progress. Patience and curiosity must also be part of your qualities. The first will be very useful in the event of stakeouts or tailing that drag on. The second will push you to explore as many leads as possible.

In addition to your private detective training, it is important to get your driving license. Indeed, as part of your activity you may be required to travel regularly. Having a vehicle will make your task easier and will also allow you to save money on all your travels. A vehicle will also allow you to transport all your work equipment. This is particularly the case for cameras and something to record conversations to listen to them again to produce a faithful report for your client.

Private detective training is required to work in this sector. At the end of this training, you will be able to work independently or within an agency, with income varying from one case to another.