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How to become a PI in Texas?

Your Guide to Becoming a Licensed Private Investigator in the State of Texas

Starting a career as a private investigator in Texas involves following a precise path established by state law, which is essential for ensuring all investigative work is conducted ethically and legally across the state. The regulating body for the entire profession is the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Private Security Bureau, and all individuals seeking to work as a PI must comply with their stringent licensing procedures.

Meeting the Foundational Requirements for Texas Registration

The journey begins with meeting the mandatory personal qualifications set out in the Texas Occupations Code. Any individual applying to become a private investigator must be at least eighteen years of age and possess a clean criminal history, meaning they must not have been convicted of a felony or a Class A misdemeanor in any jurisdiction. Furthermore, applicants must not have a conviction for a Class B misdemeanor or its equivalent within the last five years, and they must not have been dishonorably discharged from military service. The state is rigorous in verifying these standards through a comprehensive, fingerprint-based background check conducted by both state and federal authorities.

The Critical Role of Agency Affiliation or Management Qualification

It is important for all aspiring investigators to understand that Texas law prohibits an individual from simply working as a self-employed private investigator without a company license. An individual must either be registered as an employee working under the supervision of an existing, properly licensed Private Investigation Agency, or they must meet the much higher qualifications to become the licensed manager or owner of their own agency. For most newcomers to the field, the most straightforward path is to secure an offer of employment or sponsorship from an established Texas Private Investigation Agency. This agency will then submit the application for your individual registration to the Private Security Bureau.

The Value of Professional Private Investigator Training

While the State of Texas does not explicitly mandate a minimum number of training hours for individuals who are registering as employees under a licensed agency, proper training is absolutely essential for gaining employment and becoming a competent investigator. Agencies overwhelmingly prefer candidates who can demonstrate practical skills and a solid understanding of the Texas Private Security Act and ethical practices. This is precisely where Strider PI Academy provides unparalleled support, offering specialized courses designed by experienced professionals that equip you with the advanced surveillance, interviewing, and legal reporting skills necessary to succeed. Enrolling in such a renowned training program can significantly enhance your resume and prepare you for the demands of real-world casework.

Launching Your Investigative Career

Once you meet the foundational requirements, secure sponsorship from an agency, and complete your registration—which includes passing the necessary background checks—you will be officially registered to begin your investigative career. This profession offers continuous challenges and a deeply rewarding experience, where every case offers a chance to apply your skills and deliver clarity to clients throughout Texas.

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S.P.I.T.

Strider Private Investigator Training (first course)

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Criminal Investigations

Criminal Investigations for New Private Investigators

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Advanced Field Operations

Advanced Field Operations for New Private Investigators

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Advanced OSINT

Advanced Open-Sourced Investigations and OSINT-D

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Cold Case Homicide Investigations

Homicide Investigations for New Private Investigators

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Advanced Surveillance & Counter-Surveillance

Advanced surveillance and counter-surveillance

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Why Choose Us

Expertise in both civil and criminal private investigations

Expertise in both civil and criminal private investigations

Experienced team members from law enforcement, the FBI, USMC, and others

Experienced team members from law enforcement, the FBI, USMC, and others

85% success rate in cases ranging from fraud to burglary to missing persons

85% success rate in cases ranging from fraud to burglary to missing persons

Live Surveillance Exercise "the 1899" includes 12+ Revolutions to maximize learning

Live Surveillance Exercise "the 1899" includes 12+ Revolutions to maximize learning

Modern Equipment and Techniques encompassing OSINT, Counter-Surveillance, and more

Modern Equipment and Techniques encompassing OSINT, Counter-Surveillance, and more

Trainers have over 50 years of experience at some of America's top organizations

Trainers have over 50 years of experience at some of America's top organizations

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