Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ME Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Maine
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Maine, 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 Maine
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maine Department of Public Safety • Maine State Police
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,360 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 Maine
With a median salary of 49,360, Private Investigators in Maine earn 6% below the national median of $52,370. Maine ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,360Hourly estimate
$23.736% below national median
Difference: -$3,010
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $49,360 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $51,990 | Varies by state board | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | 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
Maine Department of Public Safety • Maine State Police
45 Commerce Drive, 42 State House Station, Augusta, ME, 04333-0042
Phone: 2076247200
Related Careers in Maine
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $79,600 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,680 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,880 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Maine?
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 Maine?
Maine lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Maine?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Maine.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Maine?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Maine is 49,360. Salaries range from $39,840 (10th percentile) to $72,180 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Maine compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Maine earn 6% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 49,360.
How many Private Investigators work in Maine?
Maine employs approximately 200 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Maine 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 Maine?
The licensing agency is Maine Department of Public Safety / Maine State Police. Review agency details at https://www.maine.gov/dps/msp/licenses-permits.