CredentialCompassJump to FAQ
Verified by CA Board of Business

Private Investigator Licensing in California

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in California, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in California

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $60,210 median (15% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #10 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in California

With a median salary of 60,210, Private Investigators in California earn 15% above the national median of $52,370. California ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Steady

QoQ Employment Change

+1.4%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,758

Median annual salary

$60,210

Hourly estimate

$28.95
15% above national median

Difference: +$7,840

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$42,430
  • P2525th percentile$46,380
  • P50Median$60,210
  • P7575th percentile$79,190
  • P9090th percentile$102,180

State vs National Median

State: $60,210
National: $52,370

Total employment: 5,260 | Annual openings: N/A

Private Investigator Salary Ranking

#10 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Oregon77,320
#2Maryland74,360
#3Illinois73,070
#4Minnesota72,070
#5Connecticut68,290

Nearby States Comparison

Private Investigator licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
California$60,210Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Oregon$77,320Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Nevada$47,550Varies by state boardState exam required6-24 months
Arizona$64,960Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
California78HighBoard-specific review required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
Nevada54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Arizona78HighBoard-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 Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services

PO Box 989002, West Sacramento, CA, 95798

Phone: 9163224000

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in California

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Architect$105,840Varies by state board6-24 months
Certified Public Accountant$96,360Varies by state board6-24 months
Civil Engineer$118,450Varies by state board6-24 months
Financial Advisor$128,650Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in California?

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 California?

The median annual salary for Private Investigators in California is 60,210. Salaries range from $42,430 (10th percentile) to $102,180 (90th percentile).

How does the Private Investigator salary in California compare to the national average?

Private Investigators in California earn 15% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 60,210.

How many Private Investigators work in California?

California employs approximately 5,260 Private Investigators according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to California 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 California?

The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Review agency details at https://www.bsis.ca.gov/.