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Private Investigator Licensing in Montana

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Montana, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Montana

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core 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: Felony convictions prohibited
  • Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Board of Private Security

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $47,910 median (9% below national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #33 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Montana

With a median salary of 47,910, Private Investigators in Montana earn 9% below the national median of $52,370. Montana ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$47,910

Hourly estimate

$23.03
9% below national median

Difference: -$4,460

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$41,050
  • P2525th percentile$43,930
  • P50Median$47,910
  • P7575th percentile$62,010
  • P9090th percentile$79,200

State vs National Median

State: $47,910
National: $52,370

Total employment: 60 | Annual openings: N/A

Private Investigator Salary Ranking

#33 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Oregon77,320
#2Maryland74,360
#3Illinois73,070
#4Minnesota72,070
#5Connecticut68,290

Nearby States Comparison

Private Investigator licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Montana$47,910Varies by state boardState exam required6-24 months
North Dakota$45,710No educational requirementsState exam required6-24 months
South Dakota$52,370Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Wyoming$67,360Specific course requiredNo exam required6-24 months
Idaho$48,170No educational requirementsState exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Montana54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
North Dakota54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
South Dakota78HighBoard-specific review required.
Wyoming54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Idaho54LowState-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

Board of Private Security

301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513

Phone: 4068412348

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in Montana

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Architect$82,670No educational requirements6-24 months
Certified Public Accountant$74,400Degree required6-24 months
Civil Engineer$80,390No educational requirements6-24 months
Financial Advisor$96,670Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Montana?

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 Montana?

Montana lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.

What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Montana?

The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Montana is 47,910. Salaries range from $41,050 (10th percentile) to $79,200 (90th percentile).

How does the Private Investigator salary in Montana compare to the national average?

Private Investigators in Montana earn 9% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 47,910.

How many Private Investigators work in Montana?

Montana employs approximately 60 Private Investigators according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Montana 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 Montana?

The licensing agency is Board of Private Security. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/psp.