PSA Private Investigator Licence Ireland
— Eligibility & Steps
The PSA Private Investigator Employee Licence is required for anyone working in a licensed PI role in Ireland. Here is exactly what it covers, what the training involves, and how to apply.
See the StepsWhat Is the PSA Private Investigator Employee Licence?
The PSA Private Investigator (PI) Employee Licence is required for anyone working in a licensed investigative role in Ireland — including surveillance operatives, background check investigators, and those gathering evidence on behalf of private clients.
PI contractors were first licensed by the PSA in 2015. Employee licensing followed, and anyone working as a PI employee in Ireland must now hold a valid PSA PI Employee Licence and be employed by a PSA-licensed PI contractor.
Importantly, the employee licence does not permit you to set up your own PI company or operate independently. It covers employed work only.
The ICSE Training Course — What's Involved
The PSA appointed ICSE (Ireland's leading security training provider) as the sole approved provider of the Private Investigator Employee training programme. The course was developed by a PSA working group alongside industry experts and is delivered in a blended learning format.
Book the ICSE PI Employee Course
The course runs online and costs €175. A new course starts every Friday, giving you flexibility to book a start date that suits you. Visit securityexcellence.net to book.
Attend the Initial Live Session (Up to 2 Hours)
The course begins with a live Zoom session. You will be provided with a joining link by email after booking. This session covers course pre-requisites, the structure, and the assessment requirements.
Complete the Blended Learning Programme
The course combines online self-study with scheduled live elements. It covers Irish law relevant to PI work, surveillance techniques, GDPR and data handling, evidence standards, and ethical practice.
Complete Your Assessment
Assessment is built into the blended learning structure. On successful completion you receive a training certificate which forms part of your PSA licence application.
Important — This Course Does Not Qualify You to Run Your Own PI Business
The ICSE PI Employee training is specifically for individuals who want to work as an employee of a PSA-licensed PI company. It does not qualify you to operate as a sole trader or set up your own private investigation company. A separate PSA Contractor Licence is required for that.
How to Apply for the PSA PI Employee Licence
Complete the ICSE PI Employee Training Course
Book and complete the ICSE blended learning programme (€175). This is the only PSA-approved training route for PI employee applicants.
Register and Pay Online at psa.gov.ie
Apply through the PSA's online portal. The PI Employee Licence fee is €90 for a 3-year term. After payment, your application pack will arrive by post within 5 days.
Complete Garda Vetting
A National Vetting Bureau background check is required. If you have lived outside Ireland for 6 months or more in the past 15 years since the age of 15, you will also need a Criminal Record Certificate from each relevant country.
Return Your Signed Application Pack
Return the signed form within 21 days along with a colour passport photograph and your ICSE training certificate.
Receive Your PSA PI Employee Licence Card
Allow approximately 6 weeks for processing. Once issued, you must display your licence card visibly at all times while carrying out licensed PI activities.
PI Licence — Cost Breakdown
Private Investigator Licence — FAQ
No. The PSA PI Employee Licence only permits you to carry out licensed PI activities as an employee of a PSA-licensed contractor or organisation. To operate independently or run your own PI company you need a PSA Contractor Licence — a separate, more involved process.
Yes. ICSE was awarded the PSA tender to be the sole approved training provider for the PI Employee Licence programme. The course is delivered online, so location is not a barrier regardless of where you are in Ireland.
Yes. The PSA licence requirement applies to employees carrying out licensable PI activities for banks, credit unions, insurance companies, and law firms — not just those working for dedicated PI companies.
PI employers in Ireland typically look for candidates with backgrounds in An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, loss prevention, or close protection. Strong report writing, observation skills, and a solid understanding of GDPR and Irish law are essential.
You can check any contractor's licence status on the PSA Public Register at psa.gov.ie. Never work for a PI company that cannot show you a valid PSA Contractor Licence — operating for an unlicensed contractor exposes you to legal risk.