Florida Private Investigator Handbook
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Questions and Answers

What is the minimum age required to apply for a license?

  • 18 years (correct)
  • 21 years
  • 16 years
  • 25 years

    • Which of the following is NOT a requirement for obtaining a license?

  • Being a U.S. citizen or legal resident
  • No history of mental illness
  • Having a college degree (correct)
  • Good moral character

    • What must a non-U.S. citizen provide when applying for a license?

  • Proof of employment authorization (correct)
  • Proof of citizenship
  • A letter of recommendation
  • Proof of residency

    • What document must be submitted as part of the application process?

    <p>Full-face color photograph</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to an applicant’s criminal history during the application process?

    <p>A criminal history record check is performed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT required in the application statement regarding criminal convictions?

    <p>Pending charges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    An applicant who has a history of illegal drug use may still be eligible if they provide what?

    <p>Evidence of successful rehabilitation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required for a Class 'CC' Private Investigator Intern license?

    <p>Sponsorship by a Class 'C', 'M', or 'MA' licensee</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum number of firearms a Class “C” or Class “CC” licensee may carry while performing authorized duties?

    <p>Two</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of ammunition is prohibited for use by licensed employees?

    <p>Glaser-type bullets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required for a Class “G” licensee to carry a concealed firearm?

    <p>Approval from the employer for armed duty assignment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of firearm is NOT authorized for a Class “C” licensee to carry?

    <p>.40 caliber semiautomatic pistol</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is eligible to apply for a Class “G” Statewide Firearm License?

    <p>Individuals aged 21 or older with the required training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes the training requirements for a Class “G” license?

    <p>Twenty-eight hours of range and classroom training is required</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Can a Class “C” licensee carry a concealed firearm obtained through a concealed weapon license while performing duties?

    <p>No, it is not permitted</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Is open-carry of a firearm permitted for Class “C” and Class “CC” licensees?

    <p>No, it is not permitted at any time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the requirement for a Private Investigator Intern with a Class 'CC' license?

    <p>Must work under the direction of a Class 'C' licensee or Class 'M' or 'MA' Agency Manager.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about Class 'A' licenses is incorrect?

    <p>Class 'A' licenses are valid for two locations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the validity period for most licenses mentioned?

    <p>2 years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a requirement for Class 'M' or 'MA' Agency Managers?

    <p>They must have a Class 'M' or 'MA' license.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must agencies do if there are changes in officers or ownership?

    <p>Notify the Division of Licensing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is true about the Class 'AA' license?

    <p>Each branch office of a Class 'A' agency must have a Class 'AA' license.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of investigator cannot subcontract their services?

    <p>Class 'CC' Private Investigator Intern</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if an agency does not report changes in its information?

    <p>The agency license may be found in violation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long must records be maintained in Florida at the principal place of business of the licensee?

    <p>2 years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action may the division take when it finds violations of Chapter 493?

    <p>Place a licensee on probation or suspend a license</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence for a person convicted of a violation of Chapter 493?

    <p>Ineligible for licensure for 5 years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum administrative fine imposed by the division per count of violation under Chapter 493?

    <p>$1,000</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential penalty for violating a cease and desist order issued by the department?

    <p>A misdemeanor of the first degree</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If a license is revoked, who is subject to a three-year suspension of their personal licenses or approvals?

    <p>An owner, officer, partner, or manager of the licensed agency or training facility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What authority does the division have regarding compliance with the law?

    <p>Subpoena any person or records</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which offense is classified as a misdemeanor of the first degree under Chapter 493?

    <p>Failure to provide access to an investigator</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following types of licensee information is confidential and exempt from public record provisions?

    <p>Class E licensee information</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When can the department provide the residence address of a licensee to law enforcement agencies?

    <p>If it is maintained by the department</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition may a licensee divulge investigative information acquired during their activity?

    <p>When the client alleges a violation by the licensee</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must a licensee include in a written denial of access to an investigative file?

    <p>That the client has denied permission to grant access</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What identification is required while on the job for identification purposes?

    <p>Agency identification card and Class “C” or “CC” license</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding business and operational records?

    <p>They can be accessed by authorized representatives during investigations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is prohibited regarding the display of authority symbols?

    <p>Exhibition of any badge or insignia not authorized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following terms is prohibited for non-official persons to use?

    <p>Sheriff</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if a licensee denies access to an investigative file?

    <p>They have to provide the reason within two working days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which agency is responsible for regulating the private investigative industry?

    <p>Division of Licensing of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the confidentiality status of a residence address when it appears as a business address?

    <p>It becomes public record</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What authority does the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have regarding investigations?

    <p>To investigate suspected violations irrespective of location</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions is NOT allowed for a licensee regarding client information?

    <p>Releasing information without consent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required of individuals during an investigation by the division?

    <p>Truthfully respond to questions and provide records upon request</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What power does the department have in addressing violations of Chapter 493?

    <p>To investigate on its own initiative or upon complaint</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these statements is NOT a requirement during an investigation by the division?

    <p>Direct communication only through legal representatives</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Florida Private Investigator Handbook

    • This handbook details the requirements and restrictions for private investigators in Florida, adhering to Chapter 493, Florida Statutes.
    • It is a reference guide for applicants and licensees regarding the legal aspects of the private investigative industry.
    • The handbook emphasizes maintaining high ethical standards and complying with the law.

    Regulated Activity

    • Private investigation involves acquiring information about crimes, wrongs, or other matters like the identities, habits, conduct, or movements of individuals or groups; property issues; or property damage.
    • It includes obtaining information on whereabouts of missing persons and recovery of lost or stolen property.
    • Investigations also cover property damage, accidents, and injury to real or personal property.
    • Investigations by private investigators are under the authority of government officials for related matters.

    Types of Licenses

    • Private Investigator (Class "C"): Individuals performing investigative services, excluding "in-house" investigators, must be licensed. They must be employed by or own a licensed Class "A" investigative agency or a Class “AA” or “AB" branch office and can't subcontract.
    • Private Investigator Intern(Class "CC"): Individuals performing investigative services under the direction and control of a sponsoring Class "C" licensee or manager are categorized under a Class "CC" license. Interns must work for an agency and can't subcontract.
    • Private Investigative Agency (Class "A"): Agencies engaging in the investigative business require this license which is valid for one location only. Class "A" agencies aren't permitted to subcontract with Class C, Private Investigator Interns. They can subcontract with other Class A investigators.
    • Branch Office (Class "AA"): Used to denote a branch office of a Class “A” agency.
    • Agency Managers (Class “M" or “MA"): These individuals oversee activities within agencies (Class “A”). A Class “C” licensee may serve as a manager if they fulfill the requirements.

    Firearms

    • Class “C” or Class “CC” licensees: Investigators with Class “C” or “CC” licenses can carry firearms including weapons like a .38 caliber revolver, .380 caliber or a 9-millimeter semiautomatic pistol; or a .357 caliber revolver with .38 caliber ammunition.
    • The maximum number of firearms allowed on a licensee’s person is two (2).
    • Certain types of ammunition are prohibited.

    Training and Testing Requirements

    • Class "CC" applicants, not required to have investigative experience, undergo at least 40 hours of professional training at state universities or other education institutions for certification.
    • The training comprises a 24-hour and a 16-hour course in investigative techniques and this chapter.
    • Class “C” applicants must complete two years of lawful experience or training in investigative work, criminology, or law enforcement or related fields.

    Use of Force

    • Private Investigators aren't law enforcement and don't have the power to make arrests or use force except in self-defense or defense of another.
    • Deadly force must be used in the defense of one's self or another from imminent serious bodily harm. Any other circumstances involving a firearm are considered disciplinary actions that may lead to license revocation.
    • Firing a warning shot is prohibited.

    Sponsorship of Interns

    • Class "C," "MA," or "M" licensees can sponsor Class "CC" private investigator interns.
    • The sponsorship process requires a notice of intent submitted to the department.
    • Supervising interns is required and must take place within a 50 mile radius of the location of the agency.
    • Employees may perform investigative activities under the guidance of their licensed sponsor rather than independently. A licensee may not sponsor more than six (6) interns.

    Identification Cards

    • Every licensed agency must issue ID cards to partners, officers, and employees containing the agency and licensee information.
    • The licenseholder is responsible for maintaining the card during all regulated activities.
    • Use of the state seal on any investigation-related item is prohibited.

    Applying for a License

    • Requirements include age (18 years), U.S. citizenship or legal residency, no criminal history, good moral character, and mental competency.
    • Applicants are expected to provide personal information, a photograph and fingerprint cards.

    Sponsorship of Interns

    • Interns must be supervised within 50 miles of the company and the company must submit the information to the department.

    Cancellation/Deactivation of License

    • Licensees can place their license on inactive status if a written request is made to the department.
    • The license will remain inactive for 3 years. Licensees must pay any required renewal fees if the license expires while in inactive status.

    Agency Advertising and Use of State Seals

    • Advertising must state the agency's license number.
    • Use of the state seal in connection with investigative services or badges is prohibited.

    Prohibited Acts

    • Fraud or willful misrepresentation in acquiring a license is prohibited.
    • Unauthorized use of fictitious or assumed names and conduct of activities without the correct license or with a suspended or revoked license is also prohibited.

    Disciplinary Actions/Penalties

    • Violations of Chapter 493 may involve: denial of a license; reprimand; administrative fees up to $1000 per violation; probation; suspension or revocation of a license.
    • Licensees with criminal convictions may be ineligible for licensure for a certain period.

    Confidentiality

    • Residence information of licensed investigators (Class "C", "CC", "E", "EE") is confidential and not subject to disclosure.

    Division of Licensing

    • The agency is responsible for answering questions and addressing concerns related to the process of licensing.
    • The Division of Licensing processes licenses and provides relevant information and contact information.

    Regional Offices

    • Addresses and contact information for Florida's regional offices are provided.

    Map of Regional Office Territories

    • A map illustrating the territories for each regional licensing office is included.

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    Related Documents

    Florida Private Investigator Handbook PDF

    Description

    Explore the essential guidelines for private investigators in Florida as outlined in Chapter 493, Florida Statutes. This handbook serves as a reference for legal requirements, ethical standards, and operations within the private investigation field. Whether you're an applicant or a licensed investigator, this guide covers everything you need to know.

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