Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Public Safety • Arkansas State Police-Regulatory Services Division • Private Investigators-Security-Alarm Installation and Monitoring
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$43,310 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 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 Arkansas
With a median salary of 43,310, Private Investigators in Arkansas earn 17% below the national median of $52,370. Arkansas ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$43,310Hourly estimate
$20.8217% below national median
Difference: -$9,060
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#47 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $43,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $39,460 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $43,390 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $48,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $40,470 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | 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. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Arkansas Department of Public Safety • Arkansas State Police-Regulatory Services Division • Private Investigators-Security-Alarm Installation and Monitoring
#1 State Police Plaza Drive, Little Rock, AR, 72209
Phone: 5016188600
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $84,310 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $64,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $81,930 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $75,150 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Arkansas?
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 exams are required for Private Investigators in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Private Investigator licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Arkansas is 43,310. Salaries range from $35,350 (10th percentile) to $109,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Arkansas earn 17% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 43,310.
How many Private Investigators work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 360 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Arkansas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Private Investigators in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Public Safety / Arkansas State Police-Regulatory Services Division / Private Investigators-Security-Alarm Installation and Monitoring. Review agency details at https://www.asp.arkansas.gov/services-and-programs/detail/Private-Investigators-Security-Alarm-Installation-Monitoring.