Fiction is littered with portrayals of private detectives, all men of the 1940s, cigarettes dangling from their mouths hunched over a fifth of bourbon in dingy offices. Raymond Chandler, perhaps the king of private detective novels, invented Phillip Marlowe – a character later played by such actors as Humphrey Bogart, Robert Mitchum and Elliot Gould. Few professions have been so glorified in mystery fiction as the private detective.

Typically, they’re working two seemingly unrelated cases that suddenly and unexpectedly connect. And they’re always ready with a witty quip. The reality, of course, is much different. Much of the career involves cases not dissimilar to that of the detective novel, rarely – if ever – do they involve webs of deceit and smoking hot femme fatales.

Unlike fictitious private dicks flouting authority figures, P.I.’s commonly work with the justice system, providing background on individuals and surveillance. If the job still appeals to you, however, there are some steps you need to take to get your license. The following are eight ways on how to become a private detective:

1. Get a Degree in a Related Field

While requirements to get licenced vary from jurisdictions to jurisdiction, it’s more likely a company or lawyer will want to employ you if you possess some background in the criminal justice system. This is why so many P.I.s are ex-cops.

A degree in law will ensure that you are working within it, avoiding run-ins with police during a job. In Ontario, one must take a 50-hour training course, both available online or in-person. The course covers several details one should familiarize themselves with in any province, including The Private Security and Investigative Services Act of 2005, Criminal and Civil Law as well as Ethics.

2. On-the-Job Training

Many private investigators learn the trade by shadowing more seasoned professionals. This is often crucial, especially for those without any background in law enforcement. One might take an entry-level position at private investigation firm working around the office, learning the ins and outs and beginning an apprenticeship.

3. Find a Niche and Focus on It

People use private investigator services for a variety of reasons. This is where you can put your other skills to use in marketing. Perhaps you have a computer background and can easily work around computers. Perhaps you don’t mind hours of surveillance. Perhaps you have an accounting background and find you have a particular gift for forensic accounting. Whatever the case may be, highlighting a particular skill will draw the desired class of clientele.

4. Obtain a Concealed Weapons License

Like any job that requires carrying a weapon, the hope is never to have to use it. That said, one should keep one around in case. A P.I. should never be afraid, but also not invite, confrontation. You never know when a suspect might turn aggressive.

5. Learn Stealth Techniques

If you want to become a private detective, you should learn how to be stealthy. This is a trait that’s crucial in surveillance, but it can only be really taught by a seasoned professional. The key here is to blend in with your environment while still keeping a close eye on the subject.

6. Prepare for Boredom

Stakeouts on television are often peppered with car chases. In reality, it’s a lot of sitting in car waiting around. You won’t be able to make coffee or fast food runs, for fear you may lose your subject. This can also lead to extreme exhaustion, so keeping a thermos of coffee at the ready is important.

You may think this may be a good time to get some reading or paperwork done while waiting, but doing so may ruin the surveillance gig. You never know when the subject will make a move. Always remember, you’re on their schedule.

7. Prepare for Financial Stress

A private investigator lives or dies by his client roster, and unless you have permanent employment with a legal firm or government agency, there are bound to be dry spells. Outside of the inevitable boredom on the job, one should budget and prepare for months of little to no work. Even when work is plentiful, it comes with stress. As mentioned, you’re on your client’s time. This may involve cancelling personal plans, holidays or dates at a moment’s notice.

8. Build a Reputation

After getting your license, it’s important to get your name out there. This can come in the form of attending social events with attorneys and law enforcement officers. Having friends and building relationships in the field will be vital in acquiring more long-term clients.

Capitalize on early career successes. You may want to befriend an attorney and ask for a referral to establish your credentials.Outside of phone books and newspapers, taking out ads in State Bar magazines may also drive client traffic your way. This is where your personal communication skills will play a key role.

If you still believe you have what it takes, it’s recommended you find what’s required in your location to get started.