How to Get a Private Investigator License in Utah
This guide is for informational purposes only. SuretyBonds.com does not regulate or manage Private Investigator licensing in Utah. Contact the Utah Department of Public Safety for the latest official requirements.
How to Become a Private Detective in Utah
The Utah Department of Public Safety regulates private investigator licensing under Rule 722-330. To get a license, you must submit an application packet to the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI).
Learn how to get your PI apprentice, registrant or agency license with this complete guide.
Private Investigator License Types
There are three different license types you can apply for as a private detective. Each kind of application has different requirements and authorizations.
Apprentice License
- Can only work under the direct supervision of a licensed agency
- Requires agency authorization and surety bond coverage
- Must 18 years of age or older
Registrant License
- Can work for a licensed agency but cannot provide independently provide services or employ other PIs
- Requires 2,000 hours of investigative experience, surety bond coverage and agency authorization
- Must be 21 years of age or older
Agency License
- Can operate an agency that employs multiple investigators and provide services for the general public
- Requires extra licensing steps including 5,000 hours of experience, liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance
How to Get a Utah Private Investigator License
To apply for a registrant or apprentice private investigator license in Utah, follow these seven steps.
Step 1: Complete the application form
Fill out the license application form, either typed or hand-written with ink. Make sure you enter correct information in all sections.
Step 2: Make a photocopy of a valid ID
You will need a photocopy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID. When you submit the application, you will attach the copy to the packet.
Step 3: Print a passport-size picture
Take and print a passport-style photo of yourself with your name on the back.
If you have submitted a photo to the BCI in the last three years, you can skip this step.
Step 4: Get a fingerprint card
To get your fingerprint card, make an appointment on the BCI website.
Bring a government ID and $20 for the fingerprinting fee, and make sure you fill in all sections of the fingerprint card accurately.
Step 5: Purchase a $10,000 surety bond
If you are applying as a registrant or an apprentice, you need a $10,000 surety bond. This bond ensures that PIs follow the Utah Private Investigator Regulation Act.
Purchase your private investigator bond instantly online for $100.
Step 6: Complete the Verification of Investigative Experience Form
As a registrant applicant, you will need proof of 2,000 hours of experience.
Fill out the Verification of Investigative Experience Form and attach it to your application.
Apprentices do not need to submit proof of experience.
Step 7: Submit application and fees
Pay the $142 license and registration fee through card, check or money order payable to the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification. You can also pay cash in person.
Submit the complete packet to the address below in person or by mail.
Bureau of Criminal Identification
4315 South 2700 West
Suite 1300
Taylorsville, Utah 84129
How to Get a PI Agency License
For an agency application, you will need to complete a few more steps to get licensed.
Step 1: Fill out the application
Complete the typed or hand-written application form and attach all supporting materials outlined above.
Step 2: Purchase insurance
Agencies need to provide a certificate of liability insurance for at least $500,000. You will also need a certificate of workers' compensation insurance if employing other investigators.
Step 3: Fill out Verification of Investigative Experience Form
Submit proof of an additional 3,000 hours of experience logged on the form for a total of 5,000 hours of experience.
Step 4: Submit application packet and fees
Pay the $242 license and registration fee through card, check or money order payable to the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification. You can also pay with cash in person.
Submit the complete agency license packet to the address below.
Bureau of Criminal Identification
4315 South 2700 West
Suite 1300
Taylorsville, Utah 84129
How Long Does It Take to Get a PI License in Utah?
Your application will take up to 90 days to process.
Once the BCI receives your application, they will conduct a background check. Then, the Private Investigator Hearing and Licensure Board will review your application to decide if a license will be issued.
Do not call the BCI regarding the status of your application unless you have not received a notification after 90 days.
How to Renew Your License
The BCI will mail a renewal packet to the last address you provided before your license expires. Submit this within 60 days of the expiration date. There is a $115 renewal fee for agencies and $65 for registrants/apprentices.
If your license has expired for more than 180 days, you must reapply for a new license.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Utah PI License?
To become a private investigator registrant or apprentice in Utah, you can expect to pay $262 for the following license-related fees:
- $20 fingerprinting fee
- $142 application fee
- $100 surety bond premium*
PI agencies will pay a $242 application fee and must also purchase liability and worker’s compensation insurance coverage, making the total cost variable.
*This rate reflects SuretyBonds.com pricing for $10,000 bond coverage and may vary by provider.
Last Updated: June 27, 2025
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