Most corporate investigators must have a bachelor's degree, preferably in a business-related field. Some corporate investigators have masters of business administration or law degrees, while others are certified public accountants. Corporate investigators hired by larger companies may receive formal training from their employers on business practices, management structure, and various finance-related topics. The majority of the States and the District of Colombia require private detectives and investigators be licensed by the State or local authorities. Licensing requirements vary widely.
Some States have very liberal requirements, or none at all, while others have stringent regulations.
For example, the California Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Security and Investigative Services requires 6,000 hours of investigative experience, a background check and a qualifying score on a written examination. A growing number of States are enacting mandatory training programs for private detectives and investigators. In most States, convicted felons may not be licensed. Usually there are no defined ranks or steps, so advancement is in terms of salary and assignment status. Many detectives and investigators work for various investigations firms at the beginning of their careers and after a few years try to start their own firms.