Florida Private Investigator Laws: What Investigators and Clients Need to Know
If you’re considering hiring a Florida private investigator—or you’re a PI working in the state—it’s critical to understand the laws that regulate private investigations. Whether you’re in Miami, Orlando, or anywhere else in Florida, knowing what a private investigator in Florida can and cannot legally do helps protect both the investigator and the client.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most important Florida laws every private investigator and client should know to ensure investigations are legal, ethical, and effective.
1. Licensing Is Required for All Private Investigators in Florida
To operate legally, every Florida private investigator must be licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). There are two key license types:
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Class “C” License – Required for individuals working as private investigators
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Class “A” License – Required for investigative agencies
Working without a license in Florida is a crime and can result in fines or criminal charges.
Tip for clients: Whether you’re hiring a Miami private investigator or an Orlando private investigator, always verify their license on the FDACS website.
2. Surveillance Laws in Florida
A licensed private investigator in Florida is allowed to conduct surveillance in public spaces. However, the law places strict boundaries on this practice. A PI may not:
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Enter private property without permission
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Use force or threats
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Install hidden devices without legal authorization
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Impersonate law enforcement
If you’re working with a Miami private investigator, make sure they understand and respect local ordinances as well as state law.
3. Florida’s Two-Party Consent Recording Law
Under Florida Statute 934.03, Florida is a two-party consent state. This means all parties involved in a conversation must give permission before it can be legally recorded.
You can’t legally record phone calls or in-person discussions unless everyone involved is aware and consents—whether you’re a private investigator in Florida or a client.
Violating this law is a felony offense, even if you’re recording in your own home or vehicle.
4. GPS Tracking Is Restricted in Florida
GPS tracking is another area where Florida law is strict. A Florida private investigator cannot install a GPS tracking device on a vehicle unless:
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The investigator has written consent from the vehicle owner
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The client is the registered owner or has legal authority over the vehicle
Even in personal matters—like hiring a Miami private investigator for an infidelity case—you must be cautious. If you’re not legally entitled to place a tracker, doing so can result in legal trouble.
5. What Records Private Investigators Can Access
A private investigator in Florida has access to various public records, including:
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Court documents
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Property records
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Business filings
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Select criminal backgrounds
However, they cannot access:
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Private financial records
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Phone records without a subpoena
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Medical records (protected by HIPAA)
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Social Security numbers (without legal authorization)
Whether you’re hiring an Orlando private investigator for a civil case or a Miami private investigator for a background check, make sure you’re aware of the limits.
6. PIs Cannot Impersonate Law Enforcement
Florida law prohibits any private investigator from pretending to be a police officer or government official. This includes using badges, uniforms, or suggesting legal authority they don’t have.
If a Florida private investigator offers to “pull strings” or pose as law enforcement, that’s a red flag. Stay away.
7. Clients Must Follow the Law, Too
Clients who hire a private investigator in Florida must also obey the law. Asking a PI to break the law—such as installing illegal trackers, wiretapping, or harassment—can lead to legal consequences for you, not just the investigator.
A trustworthy Orlando or Miami private investigator will refuse any illegal request and prioritize doing things the right way.
Final Thoughts
Florida has clear, well-defined laws governing private investigations. Whether you’re a licensed PI or a client looking to hire one, knowing the legal landscape is key to avoiding trouble and getting valid, useful results.
When hiring a Florida private investigator, always confirm their licensing, ask how they collect evidence, and never request illegal actions. Whether you need a Miami private investigator for surveillance or an Orlando private investigator for background checks, choose professionals who work by the book.
Need a Licensed Florida Private Investigator?
Our agency provides fully licensed and discreet services throughout the state. Whether you’re looking for an Orlando private investigator, a Miami private investigator, or assistance elsewhere in Florida, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.
If you need an investigation, call us today at (855) 828-8280 or email Info@nathans-investigations.com for a FREE consultation.