Florida Private Investigator Handbook

A Class "C" or "CC" licensee is allowed to carry certain firearms while performing their duties under Florida Statute Chapter 493.

Licensees are limited to carrying a maximum of two firearms on their person while on duty.

Licensees can only carry firearms for which they are qualified based on firearm training requirements.

Carrying a concealed firearm under a concealed weapon license is not permitted while engaging in activities regulated by Chapter 493.

Class "C" Private Investigators, "CC" Private Investigator Interns, and "M" or "MA" Managers who are 21 years old and possess a Class "G" Statewide Firearm License can carry concealed firearms if required by their duties and approved by their employer.

Licensed agencies can only provide standard (factory) ammunition that is appropriate for the location and duty requirements of armed employees, excluding specific prohibited types.

Applicants for a Class "G" Statewide Firearm License must complete at least 28 hours of range and classroom training within 12 months before submitting their application.

Class "K" Firearms Instructors are responsible for providing firearms training for applicants.

An individual who performs investigative services under the direction of a licensed Class "C" or "M" or "MA" Agency Manager licensee, but cannot subcontract.

Any company that engages in business as an investigative agency, requiring a Class "A" license for each location.

Each branch office of a Class "A" agency must have a separate Class "AA" license.

An individual who performs the services of a manager for a Class "A" agency or Class "AA" branch office. A Class "C" licensee can be designated as a manager instead.

Class "A" agencies cannot subcontract with Class "C" or "CC" licensees, but can subcontract with other Class "A" agencies.

Agencies must notify the Division of any changes to officers, ownership, or location, failing to do so is a violation of Chapter 493, F.S.

Each agency or branch office is required to have at least one appropriately licensed individual designated as a manager, directing the activities of Class "C" or "CC" employees.

Except for Class "A", "AA", "AB", and "K", licenses are valid for 2 years. The licensee is responsible for renewing their license on time.

A person applying for a private investigator license in Florida must be at least 18 years old, a US citizen or legal resident, or authorized to work by USCIS, have no criminal history that disqualifies them, be of good moral character, and have no history of mental illness, illegal drug use, or alcoholism unless they've completed a rehabilitation program or provided evidence of current mental competency.

Applicants for a Florida Private Investigator License must submit their name, date of birth, social security number, place of birth, a statement of all criminal convictions, a statement about mental institution commitments, a statement about drug or alcohol use history, a full-face color photograph, fingerprints, a personal inquiry waiver, and the appropriate fees.

Non-US citizens applying for a Florida Private Investigator License must provide proof of employment authorization issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Applicants for a Class ‘CC’ Private Investigator Intern license must be sponsored by a licensed investigator with a Class ‘C’, ‘M’, or ‘MA’ license. The sponsor must officially declare their intent to sponsor the intern.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conduct a criminal history check on potential private investigators using their fingerprints. This information helps determine if the applicant has a disqualifying criminal history.

The Florida Division of Licensing uses the results of the criminal history check to decide if the applicant has a disqualifying criminal history and can receive a private investigator license.

If a private investigator's license is canceled or becomes inactive, it means that certain rights and privileges are revoked and the licensee can no longer practice as a private investigator in Florida.

A Private Investigator license can be canceled or inactivated if the licensee fails to meet certain requirements, such as continuing education or demonstrating their professional competence.

Keeping records for at least two years at the principal place of business is mandatory for all licensees in Florida.

Using any badge, insignia, emblem, identification card, uniform, or any imitation of these items that could mislead someone into thinking you're a law enforcement officer is illegal.

The agency identification card and Class 'C' or 'CC' license are the only acceptable forms of ID for private investigators on duty.

In Florida, the Division of Private Investigator and Security Agency has the authority to subpoena individuals and documents, issue cease and desist orders, and seek injunctions to ensure compliance with the law.

Licensed agencies are required to maintain detailed records of employee training and qualifications.

The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services regulates the private investigative industry in Florida.

Failing to comply with or provide access to an investigator from the Division is a legal violation.

The Department has the power to investigate anyone suspected of violating Chapter 493 of Florida Statutes, including licensed and unlicensed individuals and agencies.

During an investigation, licensed or unlicensed individuals must provide records and truthfully answer questions.

Licensees may be subject to penalties such as license denial, reprimand, fines, probation, suspension, or revocation for violating Chapter 493.

Even if you're not licensed, you still need to comply with investigations and provide records.

A first-degree misdemeanor is the penalty for violating most provisions of Chapter 493, excluding specific exceptions.

Individuals convicted of violating Chapter 493 are ineligible for licensure for five years.

Agencies and individuals must notify the Department of any changes to their officers, ownership, or location.

Violating a cease and desist order issued by the department carries a first-degree misdemeanor charge and a possible civil penalty of up to $5,000.

Each agency or branch office must have a designated manager who oversees the activities of Class 'C' or 'CC' employees.

Information regarding a licensee's residence address and telephone number is considered confidential and exempt from public disclosure under Florida Statute.

The law permits the release of confidential information to local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies.

Licensees are prohibited from disclosing investigative file information to unauthorized individuals, with exceptions for client consent or client-alleged violations.

The prohibition on disclosing investigative file information does not apply to authorized representatives of the Department engaging in official inquiries.

When a licensee denies access to an investigative file, they must provide a written denial within two working days.

The written denial must include details about the information's origin, client notification, and client's denial of access.

The written denial must also state that the client has been advised of the request and has denied permission to grant access.

The written denial should include a clear statement that the client has been advised of the request for access to investigative files and has denied permission.