Application Fee
See agencyVerified by FL Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Florida
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Florida, 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 Florida
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
FL Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services • Division of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,880 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 Florida
With a median salary of 48,880, Private Investigators in Florida earn 7% below the national median of $52,370. Florida ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$48,880Hourly estimate
$23.507% below national median
Difference: -$3,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#28 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 54 | 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. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
FL Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services • Division of Licensing
P. O. Box 6687, Tallahassee, Fl, 32314-6687
Phone: 8502455499
Related Careers in Florida
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $83,720 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,470 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,810 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $88,040 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Florida?
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 Florida?
Florida lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Florida?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Florida is 48,880. Salaries range from $34,580 (10th percentile) to $96,540 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Florida compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Florida earn 7% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 48,880.
How many Private Investigators work in Florida?
Florida employs approximately 3,780 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Florida 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 Florida?
The licensing agency is FL Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services / Division of Licensing. Review agency details at https://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/.