What to Expect from a Certified Private Investigator Course?

Course Format and Delivery Options

When considering a career as a licensed private investigator in Ontario, selecting the right training format is a crucial first step. The Ministry of the Solicitor General mandates a minimum of 40 hours of training through an approved curriculum. Fortunately, aspiring investigators can choose a format that suits their learning style, schedule, and preferences.

In-Person vs. Online Training Options

Ontario offers both in-person and online private investigator training options, each with its own benefits:

• In-Person Training
  Ideal for learners who prefer classroom interaction, hands-on instruction, and structured schedules. In-person courses are typically offered at career colleges and training centres in major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Mississauga.
• Online Training
  Popular among working professionals or those in remote areas. These courses offer greater flexibility and convenience, often featuring video lectures, interactive quizzes, and downloadable materials. Ensure the provider is Ministry-approved before enrolling.

Self-Paced or Instructor-Led Modules

• Self-Paced Training
  These online programs let students progress at their own speed, making them suitable for individuals with irregular schedules. You can study evenings, weekends, or whenever you have time.
• Instructor-Led Modules
  Available in both online and in-person formats, these provide real-time instruction through scheduled classes, webinars, or Zoom meetings. They allow for direct interaction with instructors and classmates, which can enhance comprehension and motivation.

Approximate Course Length: 40 Hours

All private investigator training programs in Ontario must be at least 40 hours long to meet licensing requirements under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). Course content includes:

• Introduction to the Private Investigation Industry
• Legal and Ethical Responsibilities
• Surveillance Techniques
• Report Writing and Documentation
• Privacy Laws and Regulations
• Interviewing and Information Gathering

Core Subjects Covered in Training

Overview of Essential Topics

Below are the core areas of instruction that every aspiring private investigator in Ontario must study:

1. Canadian Legal System and Relevant Laws

Understanding the legal framework in Canada is foundational to working as a private investigator. This module covers:

• The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
• Criminal Code and relevant provincial statutes
• Trespass to Property Act
• Laws regarding privacy, evidence, and civil liability
• The role and authority of private investigators versus law enforcement

This knowledge helps investigators operate within legal boundaries and avoid actions that could lead to lawsuits or licence revocation.

2. Surveillance Techniques and Ethics

Surveillance is a central skill in private investigations, but it must be conducted lawfully and ethically. Topics include:

• Types of surveillance: static, mobile, electronic
• Tools and technologies used in modern investigations
• Ethical considerations when observing individuals
• Avoiding invasion of privacy and unlawful recording

Students learn how to document their observations in a way that is admissible in court or useful in legal proceedings.

3. Use of Force and Arrest Procedures

Although private investigators do not have police powers, there are rare cases where they may perform a citizen’s arrest. This section teaches:

• When and how a citizen’s arrest is legally permitted
• Use of force theory and legal limitations
• De-escalation techniques and conflict management
• Safety considerations when dealing with potentially dangerous individuals

This module emphasizes risk management and staying within the scope of authority.

4. Note-Taking and Report Writing

Accurate documentation is a key part of private investigation. In this module, students are trained on:

• How to take detailed, contemporaneous notes
• Organizing information for clear and professional reports
• Writing reports that may be used in court or legal reviews
• Avoiding bias and maintaining factual accuracy

Strong documentation skills help build credibility and support legal compliance.

Emphasis on Ethics and Professional Conduct

Understanding Confidentiality, Privacy Laws, and Professional Boundaries

Trainees are introduced to the legal and ethical frameworks that govern their conduct, including:

• Ontario’s privacy legislation, such as the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)
• The importance of client confidentiality and discretion during investigations
• Recognizing and respecting professional boundaries, including:
  • Avoiding harassment or intimidation
  • Not misrepresenting oneself to gain information
  • Never exceeding legal authority or impersonating law enforcement

This foundation ensures that future investigators understand the limits of their role and the legal consequences of unethical behaviour.

Handling Sensitive Information Responsibly

Private investigators are frequently trusted with highly sensitive information, such as:

• Personal financial details
• Surveillance recordings
• Witness statements
• Internal corporate matters

Training covers:

• Proper handling and storage of client files and evidence
• Ensuring digital and physical security of records
• Knowing when and how to share findings with clients, law enforcement, or legal counsel

Failing to protect this information can lead to legal liability, loss of licence, or reputational damage.

Scenarios and Case Studies to Apply Ethical Decision-Making

To prepare for real-world challenges, students are often presented with case studies and simulated scenarios that test their decision-making skills. Examples include:

• Choosing between continuing surveillance or respecting a subject’s reasonable expectation of privacy
• Navigating conflicts of interest when hired by competing parties
• Determining how much information to disclose in a legal report without breaching privacy laws

Preparing for the Licensing Exam

How the Course Prepares Students for the Provincial Licensing Exam

Training programs in Ontario are specifically structured to align with the Private Investigator Test Preparation Guide provided by the Ministry. This ensures:

• All exam-relevant topics are thoroughly covered (e.g., legal authorities, surveillance, privacy, documentation)
• Students understand the format, scope, and objectives of the test
• Emphasis is placed on real-world application of knowledge that may appear in exam questions

Many providers include dedicated exam preparation modules to reinforce key content areas before test day.

Practice Tests and Review Sessions Included in Many Programs

To boost confidence and improve performance, most training providers include:

• Practice quizzes and mock exams that simulate the official test format (60 multiple choice questions)
• Review sessions to clarify complex topics and reinforce legal knowledge
• Feedback and tips from instructors with field experience or test-writing insight

These resources help identify knowledge gaps and reduce exam anxiety by giving students a clear idea of what to expect.

Tips on Exam Readiness and What to Expect

Here’s what students can do to increase their chances of passing on the first attempt:

• Review the full 40-hour course material, especially legal responsibilities and investigative techniques
• Use flashcards or digital study tools to reinforce memorization
• Take timed practice tests to build familiarity with the exam’s structure
• Arrive early to the test location with government-issued ID
• Expect a 2-hour, multiple-choice exam administered at a designated Serco location or through remote proctoring

A passing score is 62% or higher, and results are typically available within 2–5 business days.

What Happens After Course Completion

Receiving a Completion Certificate Required for Licensing

Once you successfully finish the training program, you’ll receive an official training completion certificate from your Ministry-approved provider. This certificate is essential and must be submitted when you apply for your private investigator licence. Make sure:

• Your certificate includes the name of the training provider, the date of completion, and your full legal name
• You retain a copy for your records and upload a digital version when applying online through ServiceOntario

Without this certificate, you cannot proceed to the next stage.

Guidance on Next Steps: Scheduling the Exam and Submitting Licence Application

Your training provider may offer support or step-by-step instructions to guide you through the licensing process. Here’s what typically comes next:

1. Schedule the Licensing Exam
   1. Register through Serco (Ontario’s authorized exam provider)
   1. Choose an in-person test centre or online proctored exam
   1. Pay the exam fee (approx. $66.50 CAD as of 2025)
2. Write and Pass the Exam
   1. You need a minimum score of 62% to pass
   1. Results are typically available within a few business days
3. Apply for Your Licence
   1. Submit your application via ServiceOntario
   1. Include your training certificate, exam result, government ID, and criminal background check
   1. Pay the licence fee (approx. $80–100 CAD)

Once approved, you’ll receive your Ontario Private Investigator Licence, valid for two years.

Continuing Education and Career Path Opportunities

While continuing education is not mandatory, many successful private investigators pursue additional certifications and training, such as:

• Surveillance photography and video recording techniques
• Cybersecurity and digital investigations
• Insurance fraud investigation
• Workplace harassment or WSIB investigation training