PIABC PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

How to Become a Private Investigator in British Columbia

If you’re interested in becoming a licenced Private Investigator (PI) in British Columbia, there is specific training and qualifications you need to achieve. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To apply for a PI licence in BC, you must:

  • Be 19 years of age or older
    You must be at least 19 years old to qualify for a PI licence in British Columbia.

  • Be legally entitled to work in Canada
    You need to be either a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, or have the legal right to work in Canada.

  • Have a clean criminal record (or a pardon for past convictions)
    If you have a criminal record, you may apply for a licence. Your application may go through a risk assessment to determine if your licence will be granted.

Step 2: Complete Required Training

You’ll need to complete the Introduction to Private Investigation (IPI) course and pass a provincial licensing exam. The course and exam are available through the Professional Security Knowledge Network (PSKN).

Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll start as an “under supervision” investigator. After you have accumulated 2,000 hours of supervised work experience, you will qualify for an “unrestricted” PI licence.

It’s important to note that a PI cannot work directly for any client. You must be an employee of a PI firm licensed by the Security Programs Registrar.

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Step 3: Pass the Provincial Licensing Exam

After completing the PSKN course, you’ll need to schedule your provincial licensing exam. You must pass this exam to become licenced.

When you have completed your IPI course, email support@pskn.ca to request your online proctored exam. The exam will be conducted through eProctor Canada, and can be written Tuesdays through Fridays.

Upon passing your exam, PSKN will forward your provincial exam marks to the British Columbia Security Programs Registrar, and send you a copy.

Step 4: Apply for Your PI Licence

Once you’ve completed your training, you’re ready to apply for your PI licence through the BC Security Programs Division.

Have your fingerprints taken at your local constabulary, and have criminal record check results sent to the Registrar of British Columbia

Step 5: Receive Your Licence

If your application is approved and you pass the criminal record check, you’ll receive your PI licence. This licence will allow you to legally work as a private investigator in British Columbia. You will be working “under supervision” until you gain 2,000 hours of experience.

When you have accumulated the required experience, you can apply for an unrestricted licence, which also allows you to start your own PI business. If you qualify to open a PI business, you must apply for a security business license, and obtain Commercial General Liability insurance and Errors and Omissions insurance.

Ready to Start Your Career?

Becoming a licenced Private Investigator in BC is a straightforward process if you follow these steps carefully. For more details on licensing and approved training programs, visit the Security Programs Division website or contact us at info@piabc.ca.

If you’re already licenced and looking to join a network of professionals, consider becoming a PIABC member. We offer valuable resources, training, and industry connections to help you grow in your career.

Need More Information?

For any questions or additional support, feel free to reach out at info@piabc.ca.

Professional Security Knowledge Network

$600

This includes the cost of one Provincial Licensing Exam

Delivered in English, this course is the equivalent to 60 hours of classroom instruction.

How do I apply for my Private Investigator License?

Upon successful completion of the Provincial Licensing Exam, the team at the Professional Security Knowledge Network will email your results (pass or fail) to the Provincial Registrar. To apply for your Private Investigators License please visit the Government of British Columbia’s Security Industry License website.