Go to Page Section:
- Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
- Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience
- Step 3: Apply for a License
- Step 4: Maintain Your License
- Private Investigator Schools in Indiana
- 1 Indiana University - Indianapolis
- 2 Ball State University
- 3 Ivy Tech Community College
- Schools Summary Table
- Private Investigator Salary in Indiana
- Find Private Investigator Career Guides by State
- Frequently Asked Questions
Becoming a private investigator in Indiana can be an exciting and rewarding career choice.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of solving mysteries, uncovering the truth, and helping clients navigate complex issues, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps and provide valuable insights to get you started.
From meeting the state requirements to choosing the right schools and understanding the salary potential, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive in!
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can become a licensed private investigator in Indiana, you need to meet some basic requirements.
According to the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA), you must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful resident, and have no felony convictions.
Additionally, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience
One of the most critical requirements is gaining relevant experience.
To apply for a private investigator license in Indiana, you must have a minimum of two years of investigative or law enforcement experience.
This can include working as a police officer, detective, security guard, or in a similar capacity.
You can also choose to get a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field.
This will fulfill the experience requirement.
It’s important to note that experience must be verifiable with a W-2.
Experience as an independent contractor or 1099 employee is not accepted.
Step 3: Apply for a License
Once you have the necessary experience and training, you can apply for a private investigator license through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
The application process involves submitting an application and paying a fee of $300.
The process includes two background checks.
You’ll need to go through a background check for any locations you’ve lived within the last 7 years.
This includes the city, county, and state for all locations.
You’ll also submit fingerprints for a criminal background check through L-1 Identity Solutions.
Step 4: Maintain Your License
After obtaining your license, you must renew it every four years.
To do so, you will need to pay a $300 renewal fee.
You’ll also undergo a limited state background check for the previous four years.
Private Investigator Schools in Indiana
Indiana offers several reputable institutions with programs that can help you meet the experience requirements and enhance your skills.
Program: Private Investigator Career Diploma
Program Details:- Study at your own pace, anytime with 24/7 access
- Flexible, affordable tuition with personalized payment options
- Accredited both regionally and nationally
- Support from experienced instructors every step of the way
1 Indiana University - Indianapolis
Program: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Duration: 4 years
Highlights: Indiana University’s Criminal Justice program provides a comprehensive education in law enforcement, investigation, and criminal behavior.
The curriculum includes courses in criminology, forensic science, and legal systems, making it an excellent foundation for a career in private investigation.
The degree requires a total of 120 credits.
You’ll take core courses in criminal justice, including policies, history, and criminal theory.
You can also choose electives, which allow you to dive deeper into areas such as homicide, terrorism, juvenile justice, or cybercrime.
Contact Information
- Address: 420 University Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Phone: +1 317-274-5555
- Website: Visit School Website
2 Ball State University
Program: Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Administration
Duration: 4 years
Highlights: Ball State’s Law Enforcement program is designed to prepare students for roles in law enforcement and investigative work.
The program covers topics such as criminal investigation, ethical issues, and community policing, giving you a well-rounded skill set.
The program is offered as a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree.
You’ll complete 48 credit hours in policing, courts, and corrections.
You’ll also choose from a wide variety of electives, so you can focus your studies.
You’ll also be able to complete an internship, which ranges from 6-12 credit hours in the specialization you choose.
Contact Information
- Address: 2000 W University Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA
- Phone: +1 765-289-1241
- Website: Visit School Website
3 Ivy Tech Community College
Program: Certificate in Criminal Investigation
Duration: 12 months
Highlights: Ivy Tech’s Certificate in Criminal Investigation is a shorter, focused program that covers essential skills for private investigators.
The curriculum includes courses in surveillance, evidence collection, and report writing, making it a great option for those looking to get started quickly.
While this program doesn’t meet the experience requirement for licensing, it’s a great way to gain skills you’ll need in the field.
Ivy Tech also offers other options, including an Associate of Applied Science degree and an Associate of Science degree in criminal justice.
The certificate program is a great choice if you want to gain general knowledge of the field or supplement your experience with education.
If you plan on getting a four-year degree, the Associate of Science degree is a great start, allowing you to continue your education after graduation.
The Associate of Applied Science degree will provide a strong foundation in criminal justice, preparing you for a career as a private investigator.
Contact Information
- Address: 50 W Fall Creek Pkwy N Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States
- Phone: +1 888-489-5463
- Website: Visit School Website
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Indiana University - Indianapolis |
| #2 | Ball State University |
| #3 | Ivy Tech Community College |
Private Investigator Salary in Indiana
As of May 1, 2025, the average annual salary for a private investigator in Indiana is around $50,002.
This figure can vary depending on your level of experience, the type of cases you handle, and your location within the state.
According to Salary.com, the typical salary range for private investigators in Indiana is between $40,402 and $60,502, with some professionals earning as low as $31,662 and others as high as $70,062.
This salary range reflects the diverse nature of the work and the varying demands of different cases.
| Item | Percent |
|---|---|
$37.2K |
|
$44.9K |
|
$54.1K |
Average Salary in Indiana
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Indianapolis | $70,600 |
| Fort Wayne | $51,969 |
| Evansville | $51,613 |
| Fishers | $51,379 |
| South Bend | $53,555 |
| Carmel | $53,240 |
| Bloomington | $51,179 |
| Hammond | $42,427 |
| Noblesville | $49,774 |
| Lafayette | $45,793 |
Regional Salary
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evansville, IN-KY | 40 | $47,350 | $22.77 | $73,400 | $31,800 |
| Fort Wayne, IN | 40 | $50,290 | $24.18 | $77,690 | $36,080 |
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN | 200 | $55,600 | $26.73 | $81,370 | $35,960 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Find Private Investigator Career Guides by State
- AL Alabama
- AK Alaska
- AZ Arizona
- AR Arkansas
- CA California
- CO Colorado
- CT Connecticut
- DE Delaware
- FL Florida
- GA Georgia
- HI Hawaii
- ID Idaho
- IL Illinois
- IN Indiana
- IA Iowa
- KS Kansas
- KY Kentucky
- LA Louisiana
- ME Maine
- MD Maryland
- MA Massachusetts
- MI Michigan
- MN Minnesota
- MS Mississippi
- MO Missouri
- MT Montana
- NE Nebraska
- NV Nevada
- NH New Hampshire
- NJ New Jersey
- NM New Mexico
- NY New York
- NC North Carolina
- ND North Dakota
- OH Ohio
- OK Oklahoma
- OR Oregon
- PA Pennsylvania
- RI Rhode Island
- SC South Carolina
- SD South Dakota
- TN Tennessee
- TX Texas
- UT Utah
- VT Vermont
- VA Virginia
- WA Washington
- WV West Virginia
- WI Wisconsin
- WY Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific experience requirements to become a private investigator in Indiana?
To become a private investigator in Indiana, you must have at least three years of investigative or law enforcement experience.
This can include working as a police officer, detective, or security guard.
A Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field can also meet the experience requirement.
Are there any age or residency restrictions for becoming a private investigator in Indiana?
To apply for a private investigator license in Indiana, you must be at least 21 years old and either a U.S. citizen or a lawful resident.
There are no specific residency requirements, but you must be able to meet the state’s application process, including background checks.
How often do I need to renew my private investigator license in Indiana?
In Indiana, private investigator licenses must be renewed every four years.
To renew, you will need to complete continuing education requirements and pay the renewal fee.
Staying current with the latest laws and techniques is essential for maintaining your license and ensuring your success in the field.
Leave a Reply