Virtually anyone can become a working California registered process server
with $250. and a few free hours. State licensed private investigators
either have law enforcement backgrounds or 6,000 hours of qualified
experience working as a private investigator. Private investigators are
trained professionals who are state-tested in “process service” and on their
“knowledge of laws that regulate process serving.” In addition, private
investigators must pass a thorough DOJ criminal background clearance BEFORE
being issued a license. (Not the case for registered process servers).
FACT: ZERO experience necessary to become a “registered process server.”
P.I. FACT: 6,000 hours of qualified experience or law enforcement
background is required to become a licensed California private investigator.
FACT: ZERO training required to become a “registered process server.”
FACT: ZERO education necessary to become a “registered process server.”
FACT: ZERO testing or pre-registration knowledge of ANYTHING to become a
“registered process server.”
P.I. FACT: Private investigators are state tested and must pass a 150
question pre-licensing examination that includes subject matter in “process
service” and “knowledge of laws that regulate process serving.”
Utah recently passed legislation that completely exempts private
investigators from registration. Do you think California should follow
suit?
Rick von Geldern
Capital City Investigations
Sacramento, CA
