Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State Police • Certification Unit
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,840 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 57,840, Private Investigators in Massachusetts earn 10% above the national median of $52,370. Massachusetts ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$57,840Hourly estimate
$27.8110% above national median
Difference: +$5,470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $57,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $51,990 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $66,070 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $59,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $68,290 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $51,610 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 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
Department of State Police • Certification Unit
485 Maple Street, Danvers, MA, 01923
Phone: 9785386128
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $101,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,580 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $104,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $101,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Massachusetts is 57,840. Salaries range from $40,910 (10th percentile) to $125,380 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Massachusetts earn 10% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 57,840.
How many Private Investigators work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 480 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Department of State Police / Certification Unit. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eopss/law-enforce-and-cj/law-enforce/prof-stds/cert-unit/.