Private Detective or Investigator

A license is required when engaging in the business of furnishing, for hire, fee or reward, professional investigator or private detective services, including locating individuals and investigating damage or crimes.  Contact the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Commercial Services at (517) 241-8720 for licensure information or visit our website at www.michigan.gov/pi .

Other Possible License(s):

"Capital Finders" charge other companies a fee to locate sources of capital, investors. A license is required with the Department Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR); (517) 241-6350.

"FHA Finders" locate people who are owed money by the FHA on mortgage insurance policies. There are several variations: (i.e.., dormant account finders, etc.). Individuals requiring more information about FHA requirements should contact FHA directly at: http://www.hud.gov/office/hsg/comp/refunds/index.cfm.

"Investment Finders" is one who participates in the offer to sell, the sale or the purchase of securities or commodities by locating, introducing or referring potential purchasers or sellers. A license is required with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR); (517) 241-6350.

"Professional Investigators" or "Tracers" of people; locate people for a fee, reward or other consideration for any reason including those who are owed money, property or goods, are required to be licensed as professional investigators with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Commercial Services at (517) 241-8720 or visit our website at www.michigan.gov/pi .