The profession of private detective – often shrouded in mystery and cliché – is generally associated with a solitary, self-employed activity. However, it is perfectly possible to be a salaried detective.
The legal framework of the private detective profession
In France, the profession of private detective, officially known as ‘agent de recherches privées’ (ARP), is strictly regulated by the Internal Security Code. To practise, you need to hold a recognised diploma (such as the Répertoire National des Certifications Professionnelles level 5 qualification), obtain a professional card issued by the CNAPS (Conseil national des activités privées de sécurité), and adhere to a strict code of ethics.
Historically, the business has been built around independent professionals, often self-employed or partners in firms. However, it is also possible to work as an employee.
Being an employee of a detective agency: a reality
In practice, some detectives are actually salaried employees, particularly in private investigation agencies that may employ several agents. In this case, they are bound by a standard employment contract (CDI or CDD) and are paid according to their qualifications and experience.
These salaried detectives carry out the same tasks as freelancers: searching for missing persons, surveillance of minors, digital investigations, marital affairs, investigations for companies (fraud, unfair competition, CV checks, etc.). But they have one considerable advantage: job stability. What’s more, they also benefit from the absence of the burdens associated with running a business, which can prove onerous and time-consuming.
Conditions for becoming a salaried detective
To become a salaried detective, you must:
- Hold a recognised level 5 professional qualification (e.g. a professional degree in Personal and Property Security, specialising in ‘Private Investigation’, or equivalent RNCP qualification).
- Hold a professional licence issued by the CNAPS (Conseil national des activités privées de sécurité).
- Have a clean criminal record (bulletin no. 2)
- Not have been convicted of certain offences (theft, fraud, personal injury, etc.).
It should be noted that anyone with authorization can become an employed or self-employed private detective, but additional training is required to become an agency director.
Limits and specific features of salaried employment in this profession
Although salaried employees do exist, they are still a minority in the sector. Small businesses do not always have the resources to employ staff, preferring to work with freelancers on an ad hoc basis. What’s more, the profession is still characterised by a culture of autonomy and working alone.
What’s more, a salaried detective cannot be hired directly by a company or individual to carry out internal investigations. This would be tantamount to carrying on the business without an approved structure, which is prohibited. An employee detective must work for an agency that is authorised and approved to carry on the business.
A move towards greater professionalism
With increasing regulation of the profession and changes in the market, more and more structured agencies are developing and recruiting staff on permanent or fixed-term contracts. This opens up new prospects for those who want to become a detective without immediately jumping into the entrepreneurial world, which can be frightening, particularly at the start of a career.
It is therefore entirely possible to be a salaried detective, although this form of practice is still in the minority today. Salaried employment offers a secure alternative to self-employment, as long as you join an approved and recognised organisation. Whether employed or self-employed, the profession remains exciting, rigorous and deeply rooted in reality.
In a nutshell :
| CONDITION | OBLIGATORY? | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Accredited training | ✅ Yes | Minimum level 5, RNCP recognition |
| Professional card | ✅ Yes | Issued by the CNAPS, valid for 5 years |
| Certified employer | ✅ Yes | The agency must be authorised to operate |
| Respect for the law and ethics | ✅ Yes | Privacy, legal methods, confidentiality |
| Salaried status | ✅ Possible | Under contract with an agency, no direct practice for a private third party |
