Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Louisiana Department of Public safety & Corrections • Louisiana State Board of Private Investigator Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$43,390 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 43,390, Private Investigators in Louisiana earn 17% below the national median of $52,370. Louisiana ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$43,390Hourly estimate
$20.8617% below national median
Difference: -$8,980
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $43,390 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $43,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $39,460 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $48,070 | Specific course required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Louisiana Department of Public safety & Corrections • Louisiana State Board of Private Investigator Examiners
7414 Perkins Rd., Suite 120, Baton Rouge, LA, 70808
Phone: 2257633556
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,270 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $69,540 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $102,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $78,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Louisiana?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Private Investigator licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Louisiana is 43,390. Salaries range from $35,350 (10th percentile) to $70,170 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Louisiana earn 17% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 43,390.
How many Private Investigators work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 890 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Public safety & Corrections / Louisiana State Board of Private Investigator Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.lsbpie.com/.