Top 11 Investigator Certifications

Certifications demonstrate an investigator's commitment to the profession and their expertise in certain areas. They are a way of showing potential employers that a candidate has taken the time and effort to gain knowledge in specific areas of investigation. Certifications can also provide evidence of an investigator's competency, credibility, and experience. These credentials can help investigators stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of being hired for a job. Additionally, certifications can provide access to different career opportunities and networks, as well as give them an edge over competitors who don't have the same qualifications.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Investigators and explains how they can contribute to an investigator's career by providing evidence of knowledge, experience, and professional development.

What are Investigator Certifications?

Investigator certification is a designation that is earned by individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively and ethically conduct investigations. It is typically awarded after an individual has completed a comprehensive training program or passed a rigorous examination. The purpose of investigator certification is to ensure that those who are conducting investigations meet professional standards of practice and ethics.

Investigator certification can help organizations in several ways. First, it provides assurance that the investigator has met certain standards and qualifications, making them more likely to conduct investigations in an ethical and effective manner. Second, organizations may find that they can save money by using certified investigators since they are often more efficient than non-certified investigators due to their experience and expertise. Third, having certified investigators on staff demonstrates to clients and stakeholders that the organization takes its investigative responsibilities seriously and values quality service. Finally, certified investigators can serve as mentors for new investigators within the organization, helping them develop their investigative skillset quickly and efficiently.

Pro tip: Make sure to research the qualifications and certifications of any investigator you are considering hiring. Ask for references, and verify that they have the necessary experience and credentials.

Related: What does an Investigator do?

Top 11 Investigator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Investigators today.

1. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) is a professional certification awarded by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). The CFE credential is the world’s leading anti-fraud certification and is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in fraud prevention, detection, and deterrence.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the CFE program. To become a CFE, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as fraud prevention, investigation techniques, legal elements of fraud, and financial transactions.

To get the CFE credential, you must first register with the ACFE and pay an application fee. After registering, you will receive access to online study materials that can help you prepare for the exam. You will also need to submit proof of your education and work experience in order to be eligible for the exam. Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will receive your CFE credential.

The cost of getting certified as a CFE varies depending on how much preparation you need before taking the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 to become a CFE including registration fees and study materials.

2. Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)

A Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of computer forensics. This certification is offered by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS).

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in computer forensics and pass a comprehensive examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as digital evidence collection and preservation, analysis techniques, legal issues, and reporting.

The CFCE exam can take up to three days to complete and requires a fee of $1,500 USD. Applicants must also complete a background check prior to taking the exam. After passing the exam, applicants must renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or attending IACIS conferences.

3. Certified Legal Investigator (CLI)

A Certified Legal Investigator (CLI) is a professional certification issued by the American College of Forensic Examiners Institute. It is designed to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of legal investigation. The CLI is awarded to individuals who have met rigorous standards of education, training, and experience in the field of legal investigation.

To obtain the CLI certification, applicants must complete an approved course of study that covers topics such as criminal law, civil law, evidence gathering and analysis, interviewing techniques, courtroom testimony preparation and presentation, report writing, and other related topics. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written examination that tests their knowledge on these topics.

The process typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on the individual's prior experience and educational background. The cost for obtaining the CLI certification can vary depending on the institution offering the program but typically ranges from $1,500-$2,500 USD.

4. Certified Professional Investigator (CPI)

Certified Professional Investigator (CPI) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI). The CPI designation is the highest level of certification for private investigators and is recognized nationally as a mark of excellence.

To become a Certified Professional Investigator, an individual must meet certain criteria, including having at least five years of investigative experience and completing specific training courses. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by NALI that covers topics such as legal ethics, investigative techniques, report writing, and court testimony.

The process to become a Certified Professional Investigator typically takes between 4-6 months. During this time, applicants must complete the required training courses and pass the exam. Applicants must also submit an application to NALI that includes their resume and any other relevant information.

The cost to become a Certified Professional Investigator varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 to become certified. This cost includes application fees, training courses, and exam fees.

5. Certified Private Investigator (CPI)

A Certified Private Investigator (CPI) is an individual who has been certified by a professional organization or state licensing board to conduct investigations for private and public organizations. CPIs are typically hired to investigate matters such as fraud, criminal activity, civil disputes, and other sensitive matters.

In order to become a Certified Private Investigator, individuals must meet certain criteria set forth by the certifying organization or state licensing board. This usually includes having a minimum of two years of experience in the field of investigation, passing an exam that tests knowledge in areas such as laws and regulations related to investigation work, and completing continuing education courses.

The amount of time it takes to become a Certified Private Investigator varies depending on the organization or state licensing board that is providing certification. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to become certified.

To get certified as a CPI, individuals must first complete all necessary requirements set forth by the certifying organization or state licensing board. After meeting these requirements, applicants must then pass an exam that tests their knowledge in areas related to investigation work. Once they have passed the exam, they will be granted certification as a CPI.

The cost of becoming a Certified Private Investigator varies depending on the certifying organization or state licensing board providing certification. In general, the cost can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for the required courses and exams needed for certification.

6. Licensed Private Investigator (LPI)

A Licensed Private Investigator (LPI) is a professional who is licensed by the state to conduct investigations for private and public clients. They are hired to investigate matters such as fraud, theft, missing persons, and other criminal activities. An LPI may also be employed to conduct background checks, surveillance operations, asset searches, or other investigative services.

In order to become an LPI in the United States, most states require that applicants possess a certain level of education and experience in the field of investigation. Depending on the state, this could include a degree in criminal justice or a related field, or several years of experience working as an investigator. Additionally, many states require applicants to pass a written exam before they can receive their license.

The process of becoming an LPI can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on the state requirements and individual circumstances. The cost for obtaining an LPI license varies from state to state but generally falls between $100-$500 USD.

7. International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators Certification (IAFCI)

The International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators Certification (IAFCI) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of financial crimes investigation. It is the only certification program specifically designed for financial crime investigators, and it is recognized worldwide.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of three years’ experience in financial crime investigations, complete an application form, pass a written examination, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and experience. The IAFCI Examination consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as money laundering, fraud investigations, cybercrime, asset forfeiture, and other related topics.

The entire process typically takes 4-6 months to complete. Applicants must first submit their application form and pay the required fee. Once approved by IAFCI, applicants will be sent an examination package containing the exam registration form and study materials. After studying for the exam and completing the required portfolio submission process, applicants can then take the written exam at one of IAFCI’s designated testing centers around the world.

The cost for taking the IAFCI Exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This fee covers all costs associated with taking the exam including registration fees, study materials, and any applicable taxes or fees.

8. National Association of Legal Investigators Certification (NALI)

The National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of legal investigators. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that certified legal investigators have the requisite knowledge and experience to perform investigations in a competent manner.

To get NALI Certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least five years of investigative experience, passing an examination, and completing a series of continuing education courses. The certification process typically takes about six months to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must first submit an application packet which includes proof of investigative experience, a resume, and two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s work as an investigator. Once the application is approved, applicants will be sent an invitation to take the NALI Certification Examination. The exam consists of multiple choice questions related to legal investigation techniques and procedures.

Once applicants pass the exam, they must complete four continuing education courses within one year in order to receive their certification. These courses cover topics such as interviewing techniques, evidence collection methods, court proceedings, and ethical considerations in legal investigations.

The cost for NALI Certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NALI. For non-members, it costs $250 for the application fee plus $125 per course for the continuing education courses. For members of NALI, it costs $150 for the application fee plus $75 per course for the continuing education courses.

9. Certified Background Investigator (CBI)

A Certified Background Investigator (CBI) is a professional who has been trained and certified to conduct background investigations. CBIs are typically employed by government agencies, law enforcement departments, and private companies to perform background checks on potential employees, vendors, or customers.

The certification process for becoming a CBI involves completing an approved training program and passing an exam administered by the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS). The training program typically consists of 40-50 hours of instruction in areas such as criminal record searches, credit history checks, employment verification, education verification, and other relevant topics.

It usually takes around two months to complete the training and certification process for becoming a CBI. The cost of the training program varies depending on the provider but can range from $1,000-$2,000. After completing the training program and passing the exam, applicants must submit their application to NAPBS for review and approval before they can be officially certified as a CBI.

10. Certified Homeland Security Level III Investigator (CHS-III)

Certified Homeland Security Level III Investigator (CHS-III) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Certified Homeland Security Professionals (IACHS). It is designed to provide advanced training and knowledge in the field of homeland security and investigative techniques. The CHS-III certification provides individuals with the skills necessary to investigate and analyze complex homeland security issues.

The CHS-III certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in the field of homeland security, either as a law enforcement officer or in a related field. Applicants must also complete an approved course of study that covers topics such as terrorism, intelligence analysis, emergency management, and investigations. In addition, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of these topics.

The CHS-III certification process typically takes about six months to complete. The cost for the certification varies depending on the provider but can range from $1,000 to $2,500. To get certified, applicants must first apply for the program through IACHS and then submit all required documents including transcripts and proof of experience. Once accepted into the program, applicants will need to complete all required courses and take the exam before being awarded their certificate.

11. American Board of Criminalistics Certification in Forensic Investigation and Analysis (ABC-FIA).

The American Board of Criminalistics Certification in Forensic Investigation and Analysis (ABC-FIA) is a voluntary certification program that recognizes forensic investigators who demonstrate excellence in the field. The ABC-FIA program was established by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) to provide a standard of professional recognition for those who have shown proficiency in the field.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an examination. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as crime scene investigation, evidence collection, laboratory analysis, data interpretation, court testimony, report writing, and ethics. Applicants must also submit documentation to verify their qualifications.

The process typically takes about six months from start to finish. After submitting all required documents and passing the exam, applicants will receive their ABC-FIA certification within two weeks.

The cost of obtaining ABC-FIA certification varies depending on the applicant's state or country of residence. In most cases, it costs around $400-$500 USD to apply for the certification. This fee includes the application fee as well as any testing fees or other associated costs.

In addition to providing recognition for professionals in the field, ABC-FIA certification can also be beneficial for career advancement opportunities and salary negotiations. It is important to note that this certification is not a requirement for employment in many jurisdictions; however, it can give applicants an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs in forensic investigation and analysis fields.

Do You Really Need a Investigator Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no. However, depending on the type of investigation you are doing and the laws in your jurisdiction, it may be beneficial to have an investigator certificate.

The primary benefit of having an investigator certificate is that it demonstrates a certain level of knowledge and training in the investigative field. It also shows potential employers that you have taken the time and effort to gain additional education and experience in order to be more successful at investigations.

In some jurisdictions, having an investigator certificate can also provide legal protection against civil liability. If you are conducting private investigations without a license or certification, you may be liable for any damages resulting from your negligence or misconduct. Having a valid investigator certificate may help protect you from liability if something goes wrong during your investigation.

In addition, some states require investigators to have an investigator certificate in order to practice legally within their borders. Even if it’s not required in your state, having an investigator certificate can still provide credibility and demonstrate that you take your profession seriously.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an investigator certificate will depend on what type of investigation work you plan to do and the laws governing private investigators in your jurisdiction. It’s always best to check with local authorities before embarking on any investigative work so that you can make sure you’re following all applicable laws and regulations.

Related: Investigator Resume Examples

FAQs About Investigator Certifications

1. What is an Investigator Certification?

Answer: Investigator Certifications are qualifications that demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and abilities in conducting investigations. These certifications can be obtained through various organizations, such as the National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI), the American College of Forensic Examiners International (ACFEI), or the International Association of Certified Investigative Specialists (IACIS).

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: Generally, you must complete a specific training program and pass an exam to become certified. Organizations such as NALI, ACFEI, and IACIS offer educational programs that provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified.

3. What types of certifications are available?

Answer: There are many different types of investigator certifications available, including Certified Legal Investigator (CLI), Certified Forensic Interviewer (CFI), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Private Investigator (CPI), and Certified Professional Investigator (CPI).

4. How long does certification last?

Answer: The length of time a certification lasts depends on the organization offering it, but most certifications have to be renewed every two to three years in order to remain valid.

5. Are there any prerequisites for certification?

Answer: Typically, applicants must have at least two years of experience in investigative work in order to be eligible for certification from any organization. Additionally, some organizations may require applicants to pass a criminal background check prior to being accepted into their program.