How to Become a Private Investigator in Utah

Utah is a unique state because it is surrounded by 6 other states.  This is potentially good for a private investigation business, particularly because it opens more business opportunities in other states when work is slow in Utah. Utah’s population is a little over 3 million but if you add in the additional populations like that of Colorado (over 5 million) and Idaho (over 1 million), it makes for many more possible people to serve.

Utah’s private investigator licensing requirements are very straightforward.  This is very refreshing considering some of the less than helpful licensing websites from other states I have observed as well as the over-the-top requirements to become a private investigator I have seen from those states.

Licensing in this state is easy to understand.

Private Investigator Licensing Requirements in Utah

In Utah, the licensing process is governed by the Bureau of Criminal Identification.

You may apply for a private investigator license if you are:

• At least 21 years of age (unless you are an apprentice..aka working under someone’s license then you can be 18 years of age)
• A legal resident of Utah
• Of good moral character.
• Have the appropriate experience (unless working for a company)

Experience Required to Become a Private Investigator in Utah

Apprentice Applicant:

An apprentice applicant is someone who is applying to work for an investigation company without any experience.  That is the only way they can work in Utah as a private investigator since they don’t have their own Agency License. A surety bond in the amount of $10,000 is required for each apprentice application.  A copy of the bond must be attached to the application.

Registrant License:

This applicant has to have 2,000 hours of investigation experience.  Along with having that experience an applicant much attach the Verification of Investigative Experience document (completed) to prove and show where that experience came from.  A surety bond in the amount of $10,000 is required for each Registrant’s License. A copy of the bond must be attached to the application.

Agency License:

This is the license every private investigator wanting to make a career of this occupation should be aiming for. The applicant for this type of license needs to have 5,000 hours of experience in the investigation field.  

This converts to about 2 ½ years (if working full time) of investigation experience. Have the “Verification of Investigative Experience” attached to your application. You will also need a copy of your Liability Insurance in the amount of no less than $500,000.

Generally speaking, it is recommended to have at least $1,000,000 in coverage as that is the standard in the investigation community, especially if as an agency you decide to conduct sub-contract work for other companies.

You will also need to attach a certificate of workers’ compensation insurance (if applicable).

What is Needed to Apply for a Private Investigation License in Utah

One 2” x 2” color passport photograph within 90 of submitting the application.

A photocopy of your driver’s license or a state-issued identification card.

One completed fingerprint card. A card is available at the Bureau.  You can have the fingerprints taken at a local police department or sheriff’s office.  The Bureau offers a fingerprinting service for $15. (Having it done at the Bureau may ensure it meets the standard they are looking for in regards to the quality of prints.)

The fee to Apply for a Utah Private Investigation License

(all fees are non-refundable)

An Agency License application fee of $243.25 includes the $27 F.B.I. fingerprint fee.

A Registrant or Apprentice License application fee is $143.25 which includes the $27 F.B.I. fingerprint fee.

They accept cash, checks, money orders, or credit cards. Don’t send cash in the mail.

Utah Private Investigation License Processing

You can mail or bring in your application to:

Bureau of Criminal Identification

3888 West 5400 South

Taylorsville, UT 84129

(801) 965-4445

Once received a background check will be conducted.

The application gets reviewed by the Private Investigator Hearing and Licensure Board for a recommendation of license issuing.

They ask for 90 to complete the process of application. They ask that you not contact them to request the status unless 90 has passed.

How Much Do Private Investigators Earn in Utah?

As of 2021, Utah has approximately 130 private investigators employed within the state. This is an extremely low number considering the population is over 3 million in Utah. Utah is likely suited to have job growth within the investigation industry for years to come and more people migrate away from coastal states looking for more affordable states to live in.

Utah’s Median wage is $49,650 as of statistics gathered in 2021. This number could rise in 2022 with more normalcy within the world.

Visit the private investigator salary guide to see how Utah shapes up with other states.

Utah Private Investigator Association

The Private Investigators Association of Utah, INC. has limited information about the reason for their existence or what can be expected if joining the association.

Potential Private Investigator Licensing

I always recommend considering becoming licensed in neighboring states.  Utah has six neighboring states which allow for a lot of opportunities.

1. Nevada
2. Arizona
3. New Mexico
4. Colorado
5. Wyoming
6. Idaho

Please note that this information is summarized. Always go to the licensing source for possible changes in the licensing process.