Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland State Police • Licensing Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$74,360 median (42% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 74,360, Private Investigators in Maryland earn 42% above the national median of $52,370. Maryland ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,497Median annual salary
$74,360Hourly estimate
$35.7542% above national median
Difference: +$21,990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $74,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $51,220 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $49,400 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $46,830 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $48,740 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maryland State Police • Licensing Division
7751 Washington Blvd, Baltimore, MD, 20794
Phone: 4107990191
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $99,210 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,890 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $122,510 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Maryland?
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 is the typical Private Investigator salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Maryland is 74,360. Salaries range from $41,580 (10th percentile) to $132,340 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Maryland earn 42% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 74,360.
How many Private Investigators work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 560 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Maryland 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 Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland State Police / Licensing Division. Review agency details at https://mdsp.maryland.gov/Organization/Pages/CriminalInvestigationBureau/LicensingDivision.aspx.