Becoming a licensed private investigator in Illinois is a process that requires the completion of a number of steps. On order to become licensed, candidates must pass a 75-question exam with a 90-minute time limit. The test consists of questions on law (federal and state), detective practices, and licensing and practice requirements. In order to qualify for the exam, candidates must meet education and/or work experience requirements in the field.
Complete Illinois Private Investigator’s Application
The private investigator’s license application packet is available in person at the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations (IDPR) offices and by download online at the IDPR website. Read and follow the instructions in the packet to complete and submit the application. The IDPR will perform a review of the application and will notify the applicant of acceptance or denial of candidacy.
Select a Test Date and Pay the Exam Fee
After receiving notification of candidacy acceptance from the IDPR, choose a written test date online at Continentialtesting.net. The registration deadline for all written exams is generally six or seven weeks before the test date. Fill out the online application for the exam and pay the required $295 exam fee. Ten days or more before the exam date, a confirmation of the time, location and date of the exam will be sent.
Prepare for and Take the Exam
Refer to the study materials included in the application packet for recommended books and other study materials in preparation for the exam. It is recommended that candidates obtain all recommended reading materials and review them prior to the exam. Be sure to take the practice tests included with the application packet in order to get an idea of the way questions will be presented on the exam.
Complete the Illinois private investigator licensure exam on the designated date, and wait to receive the results. A minimum score of 70% is necessary to pass the exam. Passing candidates will receive information on applying for the license, while failing candidates will receive a failure notice, including an application for retesting.
Apply for Illinois Private Investigator’s License
Complete the application included with the passing notice received from the IDPR. Be sure to follow the instructions, or a delay in license issuance may result. After submitting the license application, simply wait to receive the official license in the mail.
Sources:
Illinois Department of Professional Regulation: Online application packet (accessed 8/30/2010)
Illinois Department of Professional Regulation: Licensure examination information and test questions (accessed 8/30/2010)
Cheri Pearson - Cheri Pearson is a seasoned freelance journalist who holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of ...
