Application Fee
See agencyVerified by DE Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Delaware
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Delaware, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Delaware
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Current employment in field required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Delaware State Police • Professional Licensing Section
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,400 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Delaware
With a median salary of 49,400, Private Investigators in Delaware earn 6% below the national median of $52,370. Delaware ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,400Hourly estimate
$23.756% below national median
Difference: -$2,970
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $49,400 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $51,220 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $51,540 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Delaware State Police • Professional Licensing Section
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Delaware
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,570 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $99,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,170 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Delaware?
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 Delaware?
Delaware lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Delaware?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Delaware.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Delaware?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Delaware is 49,400. Salaries range from $44,510 (10th percentile) to $71,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Delaware earn 6% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 49,400.
How many Private Investigators work in Delaware?
Delaware employs approximately 120 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Delaware from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Delaware?
The licensing agency is Delaware State Police / Professional Licensing Section. Review agency details at https://dsp.delaware.gov/professional-licensing/.