Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

What is one rule for successfully following a subject?

1. Always be silent

2. Maintain cover and avoid direct sight

3. Back into parking spots

4. Drive as fast as possible

The correct answer is: Maintain cover and avoid direct sight

Maintaining cover and avoiding direct sight is critical when following a subject. This approach allows the investigator to remain less detectable and reduces the likelihood that the subject will notice they are being followed. By keeping a low profile, the investigator can observe the subject's movements and actions without drawing attention, which is essential for gathering accurate information. This method involves positioning oneself at a distance that allows for surveillance without proximity that would alert the subject. It can also involve using various vehicles or tools that blend into the surroundings, further enhancing the investigator's ability to monitor discreetly. The other choices do not support effective following tactics. For instance, being silent is helpful, but it is not the foremost rule in surveillance as visibility and positioning play a more critical role in successful observation. Backing into parking spots may offer advantages in terms of quick exits, but it does not fundamentally relate to stealth while following. Driving as fast as possible is counterproductive, as speed can attract attention and lead to mistakes that compromise the entire surveillance operation.