Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AZ Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Arizona
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Arizona, 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 Arizona
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
Department of Public Safety • Licensing Unit
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,960 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 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 Arizona
With a median salary of 64,960, Private Investigators in Arizona earn 24% above the national median of $52,370. Arizona ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$64,960Hourly estimate
$31.2324% above national median
Difference: +$12,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#9 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $64,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $51,130 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $49,720 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $44,870 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $47,550 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $60,210 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Colorado | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Public Safety • Licensing Unit
2222 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85009
Phone: 6022232361
Related Careers in Arizona
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,470 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,620 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $85,150 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Arizona?
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 Arizona?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Arizona is 64,960. Salaries range from $38,580 (10th percentile) to $110,850 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Arizona compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Arizona earn 24% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 64,960.
How many Private Investigators work in Arizona?
Arizona employs approximately 980 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Arizona 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 Arizona?
The licensing agency is Department of Public Safety / Licensing Unit. Review agency details at https://www.azdps.gov/services/public/licensing.