Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

Which type of individual is exempt from needing a Private Investigator license?

1. A governmental officer performing duties

2. A private investigator working solo

3. A freelance journalist conducting investigations

4. An unlicensed consultant in security

The correct answer is: A governmental officer performing duties

In Tennessee, individuals who are government officers performing their official duties are exempt from needing a Private Investigator license. This exemption recognizes the authority and responsibilities of government officials, such as law enforcement officers or other state agents, who have specific roles that may involve investigatory functions as part of their job. These officials are typically already subject to training, oversight, and regulations relevant to their positions, which ensures they operate within established legal frameworks while conducting investigations on behalf of the public. The requirement for a Private Investigator license is primarily to ensure that individuals conducting investigations in the private sector are properly trained and adhere to legal standards. Other individuals listed, such as a private investigator working solo, a freelance journalist, or an unlicensed consultant in security, do not have such exemptions under Tennessee law. Each of them would typically be required to obtain a license if they engage in investigative activities that fall under the definition of private investigation.