Michigan Professional Investigator Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect the public from fraudulent or negligent acts by licensed investigators
- Who Needs It: All private investigators and agencies in Michigan
- Regulating Body: The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
- Bond Amount: $10,000
- Premium Price: $250
What Is a Michigan Professional Investigator or Agency Bond?
A Michigan professional investigator bond guarantees that private detectives and investigation agencies uphold state laws.
Both independent investigators and agencies need to file a $10,000 surety bond with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
How Much Do Private Investigator Bonds Cost in Michigan?
Michigan private investigator bonds cost a flat rate of $250 — no credit check required! Buy your bond instantly today.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does the Bond Work?
Michigan professional investigator bonds form a legal contract between these three parties.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| Principal | You, the professional investigator or agency owner |
| Obligee | The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs |
| Surety | The issuing surety provider |
If you violate the Michigan Professional Investigator Licensure Act, harmed parties can file claims against your bond. The surety will pay valid claims up to the full $10,000 amount. However, you must refund the surety.
How Do I Get Bonded?
Getting bonded takes just five minutes! Just enter your name, address and a payment method into our online portal. We’ll email your official bond form shortly after purchase.
How Do I File My Bond?
You’ll upload the digital bond form directly to your MiCLEAR account. LARA doesn’t accept printed bond forms.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, this bond doesn’t require a credit check! Anyone can buy this bond at the same flat rate.
How Do I Renew My Detective Bond?
Michigan PI and detective bonds expire after three years. We’ll send you reminders and an invoice starting 90 days before expiration. All you need to do is pay the premium and submit the updated bond form to LARA.
How Do I Update My Bond Information?
If you need to make any changes to your bond, email [email protected] with the new information. We’ll issue a bond rider, if possible.
How to Start an Investigative Agency in Michigan
You must have a physical office in Michigan to get a license. Each additional location needs a separate branch license. However, you don’t need a separate bond for other offices.
Follow these steps to get your investigator license:
- Register your business with the Corporations Division. If you’re a sole proprietor, file your DBA with your local County Clerk’s office.
- Designate a qualifying officer who is at least 25 years old and has a high school diploma.
- Gather five reference statements.
- Purchase a $10,000 surety bond.
- Submit your license application online through MiCLEAR, including proof of qualifying experience.
Your licenses will expire every three years at the end of the issue month. Since there’s no late renewal period, you’ll need to apply for a new license if it lapses.
You cannot change the qualifying officer on your existing license. If you need to change your name or address, email [email protected] with the supporting legal documents.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Investigator License?
You can expect to pay at least $1,000 to get your investigator license.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| License | $750 |
| Branch Location | $125 |
| Renewal | $300 (agency), $125 (branch) |
| Surety Bond | $250 |
