Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MO Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Missouri
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Missouri, 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 Missouri
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Board of Private Investigator Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$43,780 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 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 Missouri
With a median salary of 43,780, Private Investigators in Missouri earn 16% below the national median of $52,370. Missouri ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$43,780Hourly estimate
$21.0516% below national median
Difference: -$8,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#45 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $45,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $73,070 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $43,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $40,470 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $45,020 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $52,160 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Tennessee | 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. |
- 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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Board of Private Investigator Examiners
3605 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 625, Jefferson City, MO, 65102-1335
Phone: 5735227744ext8007352966
Related Careers in Missouri
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,970 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $73,210 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,020 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $84,040 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Missouri?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Missouri.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Missouri?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Missouri is 43,780. Salaries range from $37,130 (10th percentile) to $68,330 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Missouri compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Missouri earn 16% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 43,780.
How many Private Investigators work in Missouri?
Missouri employs approximately 450 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Missouri 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 Missouri?
The licensing agency is Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division Of Professional Registration / Missouri State Board of Private Investigator Examiners. Review agency details at http://pr.mo.gov/pi.asp.