How to Become A Private Investigator In South Africa

A private investigator, a private detective, or inquiry agent, is a person who can be hired by individuals, groups or NGOs to undertake investigatory law services.

How much do private investigators earn in South Africa?

A mid-career Private Detective or Investigator with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R391,500 based on 6 salaries. An experienced Private Detective or Investigator with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R217,184 based on 11 salaries.

Where can I study private investigation in South Africa?

To be registered as a private investigator in South Africa you have to take a course at Unisa or some similar institution, these courses usually run a year or more.

If you have prior experience as a private investigator or police officer to can apply for prior experience credit.

What qualifications do you need to become a private investigator?

One of the requirements for the license is that the investigator must complete an approved course from a registered training organization, such as Certificate III in Investigative Services.

All Private Security Licences show the category of work that the investigator can conduct, just like a driver’s license.

Private Investigator Requirements In South Africa

To become a Private Investigator in South Africa means to be a PI registered with the South African government agency that supervises the investigation and security industry: “Private Security Industry Regulation Authority.” Before this happens, you need to meet basic requirements such as age, language proficiency, and other usual requirements of this nature.

To become a PI in South Africa, you also need to take a PSiRA approved Private Investigator licensing course/ program.

Once you submit the proof of your ability to meet the requirements and completion of the mandatory course/ program, PSiRA will register you as a Private Investigator.

This is where your struggle will begin.

South Africa Private Investigator Registration Requirements

You must be 18yo or older

You must be a citizen of South Africa

You must have a clean criminal record

You must complete an SA government approved PI licensing program

You must not be a member of any national security/ police agency

You must pay a small PI registration fee

Are private investigators legal in South Africa?

Private Investigators are not legally authorized to perform acts that would otherwise be performed by a Police Officer (e.g. arresting people or conducting warranted searches), they may carry and use a firearm provided they have the necessary permits.

How do you become a Private Investigator in South Africa ?

You need to be employed by a New South Wales PI agency. A PO license lasts for two years. During that time, you will need to complete a government approved PI course: “Certificate III in Investigative Services.” After you complete the course, you can apply for a full PI license.

How do I become a Private Investigator with no experience in South Africa ?

Yes, you can become a Private Investigator with no experience. How? Through proper Private Investigator education. Not through the short Private Investigator government licensing course, but through at least 100hrs of practical Private Investigator training and education.

How much do private investigators charge in South Africa?

Throughout the country, i have seen fees range from approximately R550. 00 to R1500. 00 per hour. There are also extra fees attached to the hourly rate.

Is it legal to have a private investigator follow someone in South Africa ?

Surveillance is legal UNLESS the subject becomes aware that he or she is being followed. If an investigator is spotted, he or she must: Cease surveillance.

What skills do I need to be a private investigator in South Africa ?

The Skills of a Good Private Investigator

Surveillance skills. We like to think of surveillance as a guy in a car with a thermos and a camera.

Research skills.

Interviewing skills.

Critical thinking skills.

Communication skills.

Do you need qualifications to be a private investigator in South Africa ?

You won’t need any formal qualifications in order to become a Private Investigator. However, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) may regulate this with official licensing in the future and so relevant diplomas and specialized courses would be beneficial.

How much schooling do you need to be a private investigator?

A two or four year college degree in the field of Criminal Justice or Private Investigations counts towards one year of experience. The other year of experience can be obtained concurrently working as a class “CC” Intern while completing your degree. A state examination is also required for licensure.

How much do Investigators earn in South Africa?

A mid-career Police Investigator with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of R173,156 based on 6 salaries. An experienced Police Investigator with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R239,959 based on 9 salaries.

What type of person makes a good private investigator in South Africa ?

A private investigator needs a good understanding of how to communicate effectively and courteously with people from different backgrounds. Whether interviewing witnesses, collaborating with the police, or speaking with family members of missing persons, remember to be tactful and compassionate.