Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
State of Alabama Private Investigation Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,180 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of 47,180, Private Investigators in Alabama earn 10% below the national median of $52,370. Alabama ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$47,180Hourly estimate
$22.6810% below national median
Difference: -$5,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#35 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | 77,320 |
| #2 | Maryland | 74,360 |
| #3 | Illinois | 73,070 |
| #4 | Minnesota | 72,070 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 68,290 |
Nearby States Comparison
Private Investigator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $47,180 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $44,590 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $48,880 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $39,460 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Florida | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
State of Alabama Private Investigation Board
P.O. Box 241206, Montgomery, AL, 36124
Phone: 3348019575
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $94,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $71,070 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $98,100 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,600 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Alabama is 47,180. Salaries range from $33,550 (10th percentile) to $83,290 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Alabama earn 10% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 47,180.
How many Private Investigators work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 580 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Private Investigators in Alabama?
The licensing agency is State of Alabama Private Investigation Board. Review agency details at https://www.apib.alabama.gov/.