
Understanding the Licensing Requirements in Ontario
If you’re considering a career as a private investigator in Ontario, here’s a clear breakdown of the licensing requirements set out by the Private Security and Investigative Services Act:
- No police or military experience required
Ontario does not mandate any prior experience in law enforcement or the armed forces. Individuals from all walks of life can pursue this profession. - Must be at least 18 years old
Applicants must meet the adult-age threshold to ensure legal responsibility and accountability. - Legally eligible to work in Canada
You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise authorised to work in the country under federal immigration laws. - Clean criminal record
A background check is required to confirm that the applicant has no disqualifying convictions. This ensures integrity and public trust. - Completion of a Ministryapproved private investigator training course
All aspiring PIs must successfully finish a 50-hour training programme approved by the Ontario Government. This covers essential topics such as Canadian law, ethics, surveillance methods, and evidence handling.
Benefits of Having a Law Enforcement Background (Optional, Not Required)
Although not a requirement in Ontario, having a background in law enforcement can offer certain advantages when transitioning into a private investigator role. These skills and experiences can provide a head start, especially in complex investigative work.
- Familiarity with criminal code and investigative procedures
Former police officers and military personnel often have in-depth knowledge of legal processes, which aligns closely with PI work. - Report writing and evidence handling
Experience with detailed documentation and managing physical or digital evidence is highly transferable to private investigations. - Courtroom testimony experience
Being comfortable in legal settings and understanding how to present findings can be beneficial, especially when clients require litigation support. - May give a hiring advantage in specific cases (e.g., insurance fraud)
Employers handling high-stakes or specialized investigations may prefer candidates with enforcement backgrounds for their proven credibility and insight.
Can Civilians Without Any Law Experience Succeed as PIs?
Absolutely. Many successful private investigators in Ontario come from civilian backgrounds with no prior legal or policing experience. What they share is a strong skillset in observation, communication, and critical thinking—skills that are central to investigative work.
- Common backgrounds: journalism, security, customer service, tech
Investigative journalism, retail security, client relations, and even IT professionals have transitioned effectively into private investigation roles. - Emphasis on observation, ethics, and communication
A good PI pays attention to detail, operates within legal boundaries, and knows how to ask the right questions—all of which can be developed through training and practice. - PI training levels the playing field
The mandatory Ministry-approved private investigator training in Ontario ensures all applicants—regardless of background—receive the same foundational knowledge, making it possible for anyone with dedication to succeed in the field.
How to Start Your Career Without Law Enforcement Experience
If you’re ready to pursue a career as a private investigator in Ontario—without any law enforcement background—there’s a clear and accessible path you can follow. Here are the key steps to get started:
- Enrol in a Ministry-approved private investigator training program
Begin by registering for the required 50-hour course, which covers essential topics such as Canadian law, surveillance, ethics, and report writing. - Pass the licensing exam
Once training is complete, you must pass the provincial exam administered by Serco on behalf of the Ministry of the Solicitor General. The test assesses knowledge acquired during the course. - Apply for your PI licence
Submit your application through ServiceOntario. You’ll need to provide identification, proof of training, your test results, and a clean criminal background check. - Gain experience through agencies or mentorship
Many new investigators start by working for licensed agencies, where they can gain hands-on experience. Others may find mentorship opportunities with experienced professionals to learn the ropes.
With the proper credentials and dedication, anyone—regardless of previous work history—can enter and excel in the private investigation field in Ontario.