Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Council of Professional Investigators Ontario and what does it do?

The Council of Professional Investigators Ontario (CPIO) is an Ontario non-profit corporation dedicated to the representation of the private investigation profession in Ontario. We focus on the development and application of industry training, professional standards, and a code of ethics. Our members maintain a higher level of professionalism and ethical standards than the current legislated minimum, and we strive to have them recognized as the premier private investigators and agencies in the province.

Does the CPIO provide investigation services?

No. The CPIO provides public access to a list of vetted member agencies who hold the required license and insurance to offer private investigation services. Our members adhere to a Code of Ethics as well as the Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services Code of Conduct. If you are looking to hire a private investigator, we recommend reviewing our guidance on hiring a private investigation company.

Do I have to be a private investigator to join the CPIO?

To be a full voting member (Individual Member) you must hold a current private investigator license and meet one of the following conditions:

There are membership categories that do not require a valid private investigator license, including Intermediate Membership and Student Membership.

Do I need to be an agency to join the CPIO?

No. Individuals, associates, and students are all welcome to join the CPIO.

What is the difference between an individual member and an agency member?

As an individual member, your profile will not be publicly accessible — it is only visible to other logged-in members. As an agency member, your company contact details are made available to the public, which is a great way to generate localized business. Agency members also qualify for discounted insurance rates with some providers.

I applied for membership but have not received confirmation. Why?

Membership is not automatic and can be delayed for the following reasons:

• Incomplete application. Common missing items include: private investigator license number, contact phone number or email, employer information, and agency license number. In order to ensure your application can be processed, please fill out all requested information in your application.
• All memberships are subject to Board approval. The Board meets every 2–3 months and final membership approvals are processed at those meetings.

No. Memberships are valid from January 1st to December 31st regardless of when you join.

Can students join the CPIO?

Yes. Student membership is available to those enrolled in a program relevant to private investigation at a recognized educational institution, subject to Board approval. Please note that many 50-hour course providers are not considered recognized educational institutions for the purposes of student membership.

My name or profile is not listed on the website. Why?

Because only agencies are permitted to offer private investigation services to the public, only agency profiles are publicly visible. All individual member profiles and information are accessible only when logged in as a member.

Do I receive a certificate or identification card when I join?

Agency members receive a certificate of membership. Individual members receive a letter confirming their membership.

What are the benefits of joining the CPIO?

For Agency Members:

1. Access to professional development events, webinars, and courses aimed at improving industry professionalism
2. Ability to post employment opportunities in the members' classified ads
3. Increased exposure and marketplace visibility
4. Access to group medical benefits for staff
5. Two votes at the AGM and Special Members Meetings
6. Free passes for the November Professional Development Day
7. Access to preferred rates from CPIO partners

For Individual Members:

1. Access to professional development events, webinars, and discounted courses
2. Ability to post resumes and employment opportunities in the members' area
3. Access to contact information for member agencies and agency designates
4. Opportunities to meet and network with agency owners, managers, and employers
5. Access to Triton - CRJMC Background Checks

I am looking for additional training. What do you recommend?

Each year the CPIO holds a conference in addition to the AGM. Guest speakers cover a wide range of topics directly related to the field. Upon completion you will receive a certificate that can be used for CPE purposes

If I am a licensed private investigator, can I run my own business providing services to other agencies?

You will need to obtain an Agency license in addition to your private investigator license in order to sell your services to other agencies. We recommend contacting the Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services for further details before acting on anything within the act that you are uncertain about.

I know of a licensed private investigator who is selling services without an agency license. Who do I contact?

Contact the Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services and complete the complaint form, available in English or French on their website.

I have witnessed unethical behaviour in the field. Who do I contact?

Contact the Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services and complete the complaint form. You can also report the matter directly to the CPIO, particularly if you believe a CPIO member may be involved: info@cpiontario.ca