Private Investigators licence

The Private Security Industry Act outlines a system for the statutory regulation of the private security industry

Various sectors have already been licenced such as: Manned guards, Door supervisors, Close protection operatives, Public space surveillance (CCTV) operators and Security guards by the Security Industry Authority. The S.I.A is the organisation responsible for this regulation and reports to the Home Secretary.

The Security Industry Authority has a series of objectives which cover these professions, such as: “Providing services and standards to their customers”, “Delivering regulatory activities effectively and efficiently”, “Delivering a development programme that continues effective regulation of the private security industry” and “To be recognised internally and externally as a model of good practice”.

Licencing of Private Investigators was a government priority. A Private Investigator licence is still subject to Ministerial approval.

The momentum was there. But, a whole new world of (Self) regulation, inspection and bureaucracy is coming instead.

The following indices can be drawn from existing trends:

The UK GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) Code of Conduct for Investigative and Litigation Support Services is relevant for those investigators that want to demonstrate compliance with specific areas of data protection law when operational.

As part of “Self Regulation” the “SFJ Awards Level 3 Award for Professional Investigators” – is obtained to prove you meet stringent professional standards – pass the, “Fit and Proper person” tests.

Please also note that the British Standard for the Provision of Investigative Services recommends that the competence necessary to complete an investigation is demonstrated by the supplier of the services: Conducting investigations, conducting interviews, searching for information and preserving evidence, surveillance techniques, understanding and working to relevant laws and standards and the ability to report findings…the syllabus of the Level three Awards….The SIA have only ever recognised or endorsed, as a, “Test of Competency”, the following Awards: SFJ Awards Level 3 Award for Professional Investigators or the now discontinued BTEC Professional Investigators, cost around: £300.00 – £600.00.

"Voluntary”, Kite marks, such as: British Standard 102000 and the Approved Contractor Scheme has cemented "Self regulation", as the order of the day. Organisations and businesses that wish to bid for government contracts have already adopted this form of Private Investigator regulation..

The SFJ Awards Level 3 Award for Professional Investigators qualification is required for as an entry requirement for the professional investigator trade bodies.

With your qualification you can begin your journey as an investigator, but, only experience, continual training and luck will ensure you make a successful profitable, career in the sector.

We are available throughout your investigation career – offering further learning, training and real work opportunities. Look at our process server and other training options to expand your skill set. We support and assist.

Your Principal Tutor holds a BA Hons degree and is the Managing Director of Burton Regan Limited a full time – front line Professional Private Investigator, Process Server and Enquiry Agent with 40 years' experience: