Who is required to be have a Private Investigation license?
Private investigator means any person who engages in the business or accepts employment to obtain or furnish information with reference to:
- Crimes or wrongs done or threatened against the United States or any state or territory of the Unites States
- The identity, habits, conduct, business, occupation, honesty, integrity, credibility, knowledge, trustworthiness, efficiency, loyalty, activity, movement, whereabouts, affiliations, associations, transactions, acts, reputations, or character of any person
- The location, disposition, or recovery of lost or stolen property
- The cause or responsibility for fires, libels, losses, accidents, damages, or injuries to persons or to property
- The securing of evidence to be used before any court, Commission, officer, or investigating committee.
Do I have to be a Private Investigation apprentice?
No, this is optional. Apprenticeships are intended to serve as a learning process. Sponsors (company) shall assume a training status by providing direction and control of the apprentice. Apprentice status shall be limited to six (6) months and applicants are only eligible for one (1) apprenticeship.
I am no longer employed; do I need to update the Board?
If your affiliation changes, you must immediately inform the Board of your employment change. You may update your company affiliation via email, or online at, core.tn.gov
You are no longer required to be affiliated/employed by a licensed Tennessee Private Investigation Company to retain your Tennessee Private Investigator License.
Can a Private Investigator work at more than one Agency?
Yes. They just have to be listed as an employee at the agencies that they work for.
Must I disclose any past arrest when making application or when renewing my Private Investigation license?
Yes. You must disclose all prior arrests, convictions and pending charges in the commission of a felony or misdemeanor in any jurisdiction. It will be necessary for you to provide certified documents of the court’s final disposition, including suspended or deferred sentences, as well as a written explanation of the events surrounding the charges. Failure to fully disclose all arrest information could disqualify you under TCA § 62-26-217.
Is a Bounty Hunter a Private Investigation license?
No. Bounty hunters are hired by the bond agent (TCA § 40-11-3). A bounty hunter cannot have a criminal record, must notify the local police of defendant’s location, and present to the police a copy of the warrant, a copy of the bond, and evidence that the bounty hunter has been hired by the bond agent.