What constitutes unlicensed activity in private investigation?

Operating without a valid license or registration is considered unlicensed activity in the field of private investigation because state laws often require private investigators to obtain a specific license to ensure they meet certain qualifications and standards. This licensing process is in place to protect the public and ensure that investigators have the necessary training, experience, and ethical guidelines to perform their duties. When someone operates without a valid license, they may lack the knowledge or skills required to conduct investigations lawfully and effectively, which could lead to violations of legal and ethical standards. As a result, practicing as a private investigator without the proper licensing is a significant breach of regulatory requirements and can have serious legal implications.