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Private Investigator & Watch Guard License Form

Apply for or renew a Private Investigator or Watch Guard license with the Massachusetts State Police Certification Unit.

To apply for or renew a Private Investigator or Watch Guard license, you must complete both of the following steps:

  • Complete the Private Investigator & Watch Guard License Form. This form is required for all original and renewal applications.
    • Before you start this form, make sure you have the following information and documents ready:
      • Your PI/WG License Number (for renewals).
      • Your date of birth and full legal name.
  • Log into the Certification Licensing System. You must sign in or create an account to submit your application.

If applying for a Private Investigator (PI) license, you will need:

  • Details of your work experience, including:
    • The agencies or companies where you gained investigative experience.
    • Dates of employment and job roles.
    • Any law enforcement or military experience (if applicable).

For both PI and WG licenses, provide:

  • Information about any previous or current private investigator or security-related licenses, including:
    • License numbers and issuing states/jurisdictions.
    • Any disciplinary actions or license revocations.
  • Details on any prior criminal convictions, including:
    • Felonies.
    • Crimes involving dishonesty, fraud, personal violence, or moral turpitude.
  • Any history of employment termination, resignations to avoid discipline, or administrative actions.
  • Any history of civil judgments for incompetence, negligence, or malpractice.
  • Information about your mental health history, including prior hospitalizations or treatments (if applicable).

Note: Investigative experience is not required for a Watch Guard (WG) license.