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Private Investigator Licensing in Idaho

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

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Idaho

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: No educational requirements
  • Examination: State exam required
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Experience: No experience required
  • Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Idaho State Department of Agriculture

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $48,170 median (8% below national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #30 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 Idaho

With a median salary of 48,170, Private Investigators in Idaho earn 8% below the national median of $52,370. Idaho ranks #30 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Rising

QoQ Employment Change

+3.7%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,134

Median annual salary

$48,170

Hourly estimate

$23.16
8% below national median

Difference: -$4,200

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$38,520
  • P2525th percentile$43,650
  • P50Median$48,170
  • P7575th percentile$59,720
  • P9090th percentile$65,980

State vs National Median

State: $48,170
National: $52,370

Total employment: 300 | Annual openings: N/A

Private Investigator Salary Ranking

#30 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
Idaho$48,170No educational requirementsState exam required6-24 months
Montana$47,910Varies by state boardState exam required6-24 months
Wyoming$67,360Specific course requiredNo exam required6-24 months
Utah$51,130Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Nevada$47,550Varies by state boardState exam required6-24 months
Oregon$77,320Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Washington$65,370Specific course requiredState exam required6-24 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
Idaho54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Montana54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Wyoming54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Utah78HighBoard-specific review required.
Nevada54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Idaho State Department of Agriculture

2270 Old Penitentiary Rd., P.O. Box 790, Boise, ID, 83701

Phone: 2083328500

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in Idaho

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Architect$82,510Degree required6-24 months
Certified Public Accountant$64,840Degree required6-24 months
Civil Engineer$94,990Degree required6-24 months
Financial Advisor$136,440Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

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

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 Idaho?

Idaho lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.

What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Idaho?

The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Idaho.

What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Idaho?

The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Idaho is 48,170. Salaries range from $38,520 (10th percentile) to $65,980 (90th percentile).

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

Private Investigators in Idaho earn 8% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 48,170.

How many Private Investigators work in Idaho?

Idaho employs approximately 300 Private Investigators according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Idaho 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 Idaho?

The licensing agency is Idaho State Department of Agriculture. Review agency details at https://agri.idaho.gov/main/.