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New Private Investigator License Information

To apply for licensure, please review the requirements of each license type you would like to apply for.
Links to Exam Information, Forms, FAQs can be found in the menu on the left. 

I want to become licensed for the first time, what do I need to complete?

  • Complete a PI-1 (application)
  • Secure a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit or errors & omissions insurance in the minimum amount of $5000 with your name listed as principal
  • Complete one (1) fingerprint card
  • Complete three (3) professional letters of reference. References cannot be related to you by blood or marriage or be personal in nature.
  • Submit proof of 1500 hours (via resume), some educational substitution may apply.
  • Complete two (2) passport quality photographs. (Photos are to be submitted electronically at piappsubmittal@state.or.us. *Digital photo must meet certain criteria, see below for explanation. No copies or laser printer copies will be accepted.)
  • PI-27 (Private Investigator Professional Code of Ethics)
  • Review the list of criminal disqualifiers in Oregon Administrative Rules Division 61.
  • Submit $75.25 for the application fee and the required $550 licensing fee (VISA/MC, cashier’s check, money order, or business check. No personal checks or cash, please.)
  • Once your completed application packet is processed you will receive exam information via email.  The exam is online through Workday.

*Criteria for electronically submittal: JPEG format (.jpg), minimum 640x480 resolution, cropped head shot, solid colored background, photo date must be within the last six months, sent from an email address on file at DPSST (or) if new applicant, sent from email address listed on application or submitted on a CD with paper documents and driver's license quality professional photograph.
 
**The initial application process and criminal background check typically takes 4-8 weeks.**

*** If you were previously licensed in the State of Oregon as an investigator and completed the DPSST PI Exam, you are not required to complete the exam again as long as there is proof of a passing score for the DPSST PI Exam.  If you previously completed the OBI Exam, you will be required to pass the DPSST PI Exam.

I want to become licensed for the first time, what do I need to complete?

  • Complete a PI-1 (application)
  • Secure a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit or errors & omissions insurance in the minimum amount of $5000 with your name listed as principal
  • Complete one (1) fingerprint card
  • Complete three (3) professional letters of reference. References cannot be related to you by blood or marriage or be personal in nature
  • Complete two (2) passport quality photographs. (Photos are to be submitted electronically at piappsubmittal@state.or.us. *Digital photo must meet certain criteria, see below for explanation. No copies or laser printer copies will be accepted.)
  • PI-27 (Private Investigator Professional Code of Ethics)
  • Review the list of criminal disqualifiers in Oregon Administrative Rules Division 61.
  • Submit $75.25 for the application fee and the required $550 licensing fee (VISA/MC, cashier’s check, money order, or business check. No personal checks or cash, please.)
  • Once your completed application packet is processed you will receive exam information via email.  The exam is online through Workday.

*Criteria for electronically submittal: JPEG format (.jpg), minimum 640x480 resolution, cropped head shot, solid colored background, photo date must be within the last six months, sent from an email address on file at DPSST (or) if new applicant, sent from email address listed on application or submitted on a CD with paper documents and driver's license quality professional photograph.
 
**The initial application process and criminal background check typically takes 4-8 weeks.**


To upgrade a Provisional Private Investigator License, please submit Form PI-11. 

Please note: upgrading from provisional does not extend the expiration date of your license. If you are close to expiring, please submit a renewal application and include Form PI-11 with your application.



Option One - Electronic fingerprinting via Fieldprint

Submit Electronic Fingerprints via Fieldprint, Inc.  Fieldprint provides all aspects of the fingerprinting process from electronic collection to sending the collected fingerprints to OSP/FBI for processing - eliminating the need for submission of a fingerprint card and Affidavit form in a sealed tamper-proof bag to the department.  In addition, Fieldprint offers nationwide fingerprinting services within a reasonable distance from any location.  Please visit: www.fieldprintoregon.com for more information and to schedule an appointment.

You will need to use this Fieldprint code when scheduling your appointment:  FPPILicenseDPSST


IMPORTANT INFORMATION - PLEASE NOTE:

  1. Be Sure to enter the correct Fieldprint code (codes are listed above) when scheduling your appointment.  Entry of an incorrect code will result in the rejection of your prints and you will be required to reschedule and repeat the fingerprint process, which will include repayment of the electronic fingerprint fee charged by Fieldprint Inc; and

  1. Once you have completed the process of scheduling an appointment with Fieldprint, Inc., you will be provided with a Confirmation Page.  You must include a copy of your Confirmation Page with your application (PI-1) upon submission to DPSST.


 

Option Two - LiveScan fingerprinting

Submit a LiveScan printed fingerprint card.  LiveScan is an inkless electronic fingerprinting method where fingerprints are scanned and saved as a digital image.  When done properly, LiveScan can have a greater success rate than the traditional ink method.  However, LiveScan is not available in all areas.

Option Three - Traditional ink fingerprinting

Submit a completed ink fingerprint card.  The Department will supply pre-printed FBI fingerprint cards at no charge.  Please contact our office to request one.