Training required to be a private investigator
Before you can apply to be a licensed private investigator, you need to complete all modules in the Certificate III in Investigative Services through a registered training organisation. The current course code is CPP30619. The previous course code—CPP30607—is no longer accepted.
Use the training.gov.au website to find a training provider.
If you're travelling on a student visa, make sure the training organisation you use is registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions for Overseas Students. We don't accept training certificates based on credit transfers for international students.
You must complete all 5 core units and 11 electives from Group A—factual investigation, Group B—surveillance, Group C—general in these amounts:
- all 8 electives in Group A plus 3 units from any other group, or
- all 7 electives in Group B plus 4 units from any other group.
Working while training
A restricted licence allows you to complete your training as you work, as long as a fully licensed security provider supervises you.
A restricted licence only lasts for 6 months—you can't apply for an extension. During this time, you must:
- complete the training requirements
- apply for a full, unrestricted licence.
Your supervisor needs to:
- be in the same location as you—preferably able to see you unless this isn't practical
- be able to immediately assist you
- give you detailed written instructions about your work
- write down the tasks you perform
- regularly check your progress and include written notes.
More information
- Read about what private investigators do.
- Find out more about security industry regulation.
- Subscribe to the Security Buzz newsletter for industry updates.