Under what condition must a detective employee hold an active FCC card?

A detective employee must hold an active FCC card and physically carry it while on duty to comply with legal regulations governing private detective work, which often includes the use of communication devices that may require FCC licensing. This requirement ensures that the detective is authorized to operate any radio equipment legally. Carrying the card serves as proof of compliance and allows the detective to demonstrate that they have met the necessary federal regulations, which can also be critical in situations where legal authority to use specific types of communication technology may be questioned.

Other options do not encompass this essential requirement: while having the card in the agency file or having it submitted for renewal are important administrative actions, they do not reflect the real-time compliance necessary when performing detective duties. Presenting the card during training could be valuable, but it doesn't address the immediate necessity of being in possession of the card while actively engaging in detective work.