Application Fee
See agencyVerified by GA Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Georgia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Georgia, 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 Georgia
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: Background check required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,590 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 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 Georgia
With a median salary of 44,590, Private Investigators in Georgia earn 15% below the national median of $52,370. Georgia ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$44,590Hourly estimate
$21.4415% below national median
Difference: -$7,780
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $44,590 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $55,190 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $53,890 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $48,880 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $47,180 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Florida | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 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
Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies
237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA, 31217-3858
Phone: 4782072440
Related Careers in Georgia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $100,870 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,100 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $81,030 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,490 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Georgia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Georgia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Private Investigator licensure in Georgia.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Georgia?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Georgia is 44,590. Salaries range from $37,810 (10th percentile) to $92,780 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Georgia compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Georgia earn 15% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 44,590.
How many Private Investigators work in Georgia?
Georgia employs approximately 1,340 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Georgia 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 Georgia?
The licensing agency is Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. Review agency details at https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing.