Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Corporations, Securities & Commercial
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,700 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 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 Michigan
With a median salary of 49,700, Private Investigators in Michigan earn 5% below the national median of $52,370. Michigan ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,700Hourly estimate
$23.895% below national median
Difference: -$2,670
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $49,700 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $50,060 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $45,400 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $43,210 | No educational requirements | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Corporations, Securities & Commercial
P.O. Box 30018, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172419221
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $82,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $85,550 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,830 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Michigan is 49,700. Salaries range from $36,230 (10th percentile) to $87,760 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Michigan earn 5% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 49,700.
How many Private Investigators work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 980 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Corporations, Securities & Commercial. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_61343---,00.html.