Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

Which of the following is a necessary feature for a surveillance van?

1. Large windows for visibility

2. Heavy-duty locking doors

3. Tinted windows for concealment

4. Bright exterior colors for safety

The correct answer is: Tinted windows for concealment

A necessary feature for a surveillance van is tinted windows for concealment. Tinted windows serve multiple purposes in the context of surveillance. They help to obscure the view inside the van, allowing investigators to conduct their work discreetly and without drawing attention to themselves. This is essential for maintaining the integrity of the surveillance operation, as it minimizes the risk of being discovered by subjects or bystanders. In a surveillance scenario, keeping a low profile is critical, and tinted windows play a vital role in that strategy. The level of visible light transmission can be adjusted depending on the specific needs of the surveillance, thus enhancing the operational effectiveness of the van. On the other hand, options such as large windows for visibility and bright exterior colors for safety can compromise the van's ability to remain undetected, which is counterproductive to the goals of surveillance. Heavy-duty locking doors may provide security but are not as pivotal to the core function of the van, which is to carry out discreet surveillance.