Detectives are also knows as Criminal Investigators. Their duties include collection of evidence, interviewing witnesses or potential suspects and making arrests to close criminal cases.

Featured Programs and Schools

Should I Become a Detective in Florida?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, all detectives come under the umbrella of “Police and Detectives.” The data reported by BLS in 2021 shows Florida with an employment number of 6,330 for Detectives and Criminal Investigators. This makes Florida the state with the fourth highest level of employment for this occupation.

If you want to work as a detective in the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, you have to begin by serving as a Florida State Trooper. Working in this position provides you with the knowledge and skillset that is necessary to work as a detective.

  • Education Required
  • Major Requirement
  • Licenses/Certifications
  • Experience/Training
  • Key Skills
  • Annual Mean Salary (2021) –
    Florida
  • Annual Mean Salary (2021) –
    National
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031) – National
  • Job Outlook (2020-2030) – Florida
  • A college degree is preferred (i.e., associate’s or bachelor’s degree)
  • Criminal Justice or a related subject
  • Not Required
  • Attending a Police Training Academy is mandatory
  • Attention to Detail, Integrity, Physical Stamina & Strength; Problem-solving, Communication, Leadership and Interpersonal Skills etc.
  • $81,850 (Detectives and Criminal Investigators)
  • $90,370 (Detectives and Criminal Investigators)
  • -1% (Detectives and Criminal Investigators)
  • 4%

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*Net OnLine (2021)

Career Outlook for a Detective in Florida

O*Net OnLine predicted a 4% employment growth for this career in Florida between 2020 and 2030. In 2021, BLS also reported that a total of 6,330 Detectives and Criminal Investigators were employed across Florida and their numbers are expected to rise. Keeping these numbers in mind, it seems the detectives will remain in demand to uphold peace in society.

Steps to Become a Detective in Florida

If your dream is to become a detective in Florida, then here is the key to make it come true! Follow this simple guideline to achieve your goal!

Get a College Degree

The minimum education requirement for a detective is a 2-year associate’s degree or a 4-year bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Police Science or a similar subject.

Go Through Health and Fitness Exams

Typically, all aspiring candidates have to complete certain health and fitness exams. To be considered for this position, you must:

  • Clear the background check by not having any criminal records
  • Have a clear credit and employment history
  • Clear the Polygraph Test & Drug Screening
  • Get a thorough medical exam and clear it
  • Pass the physical stamina test
  • Clear the psychological exam to prove your mental fitness

Graduate from Police Training Academy and Clear the FBAT

It is mandatory for all individuals recruited into law enforcement to graduate from a police training academy. In addition to that, you also have to complete a basic recruiter program from an accredited Commission-certified training school. Moreover, you must pass the Florida Basics Abilities Test.

Experience in the Field

Usually officers already employed in law enforcement are promoted to the position of detective however, that is not always the case. You can also become a detective if you have completed one of the following criteria:

  • At least 1 year of law enforcement experience
  • 2 years of public service/contact experience
  • Continuous and active U.S. military service of 2 years
  • Have completed at least 30 credit hours at an accredited college or university

How Long Does It Take to Become a Detective in Florida?

Becoming a detective may take anywhere between 4-6 years or more. It depends on the education you have completed and the experience you have gained.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Detective in Florida?

To be employed as a detective in Florida, you must:

  • Be at least a 21 year old legal US citizen
  • Have a college degree in Criminal Justice or related subject
  • Possess a valid Florida driver’s license
  • Have no DUI convictions
  • Graduate from Police Academy
  • Pass the interview and other relevant tests
  • Not have a military dishonorable discharge
  • Be in good physical condition with at least 20/50 eyesight (without correction)

How Much Can I Make as a Detective in Florida?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the annual mean salary of Detectives and Criminal Investigators for the state of Florida was reported as $81,850 in 2021.

You May Also Like

How to Become a Detective in Georgia
How to Become a Detective in Michigan
How to Become a Detective in New Jersey