Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Safety • Program Services Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,070 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#40 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 45,070, Private Investigators in Iowa earn 14% below the national median of $52,370. Iowa ranks #40 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$45,070Hourly estimate
$21.6714% below national median
Difference: -$7,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#40 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $45,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $72,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $43,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $73,070 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $52,160 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $52,370 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Iowa Department of Public Safety • Program Services Bureau
Department of Public Safety Building, 215 East 7th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5157256230
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Private Investigator licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Iowa is 45,070. Salaries range from $38,490 (10th percentile) to $64,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Iowa earn 14% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 45,070.
How many Private Investigators work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 140 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Safety / Program Services Bureau. Review agency details at http://www.dps.state.ia.us/asd/licensing.shtml.