Independent polygraph examiner

Employers (especially in security-sensitive roles), law firms, investigation agencies and private individuals, such as people in personal or family disputes.

A fixed fee per examination, often with extra for travel, longer cases or written reports. Repeat work from investigation firms and employers is the steadiest source.

• Calm, neutral interviewing
• Careful, accurate report writing
• Discretion with sensitive information
• Completing formal examiner training

• Polygraph results are generally not accepted as evidence in Canadian courts, so be clear with clients about what a test can and cannot do
• Some provinces may require a private investigator or security licence, or restrict polygraph use in employment, so check with your provincial regulator
• Privacy law and written, informed consent from every person tested
• Professional liability and commercial general liability insurance
• Training is a big upfront cost and often means travelling or studying outside Canada
• Reputation matters: keep to a recognized professional code of ethics and standards

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $8,000 to $25,000, depending on your training, equipment and insurance. Training is a big upfront cost and often means travelling or studying outside Canada.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many tests you carry out, your fees and the clients you win. Reputation matters, so keep to a recognized professional code of ethics.

Check with your provincial regulator whether a private investigator or security licence is needed or employment use is restricted. Also check privacy law, written informed consent, insurance, and that results are generally not accepted as evidence in Canadian courts.