Massachusetts Private Security and Private Investigation Licensing Guide

Massachusetts maintains a centralized, statewide licensing regime for private detectives under M.G.L. c. 147 §§ 22–30. Licenses are issued by the Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police.

The statute provides for licensure of private detectives and private detective agencies. Licensure is required prior to engaging in private investigative services.

Massachusetts does not maintain a statewide licensing regime for private security guards under M.G.L. c. 147. Security guard licensing, where required, is generally governed at the municipal level.

Massachusetts issues firearms credentials under M.G.L. c. 140 §§ 129B and 131. These credentials are issued under a separate statutory framework and are not themselves private security or private investigation licenses.

Regulation of private detective services is centralized at the state level.

Massachusetts requires state-level licensure for private detectives and private detective agencies through the Massachusetts State Police.

Massachusetts does not issue a statewide security guard license under M.G.L. c. 147. Security guard requirements may be imposed at the municipal level.

Firearms credentials issued under M.G.L. c. 140 are governed under a separate statutory framework and do not substitute for private detective licensure where required.