Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Illinois, 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 Illinois
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: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,070 median (40% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 73,070, Private Investigators in Illinois earn 40% above the national median of $52,370. Illinois ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$73,070Hourly estimate
$35.1340% above national median
Difference: +$20,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $73,070 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $43,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $45,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $45,400 | Varies by state board | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | 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
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $79,320 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $79,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,640 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $104,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Illinois lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Illinois is 73,070. Salaries range from $40,710 (10th percentile) to $98,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Illinois earn 40% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 73,070.
How many Private Investigators work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 1,770 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Illinois 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 Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.