Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Business
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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Private Security
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,910 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Private Investigator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Private Security and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$47,910Hourly estimate
$23.039% below national median
Difference: -$4,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $47,910 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $45,710 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $52,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $67,360 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $48,170 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Private Security
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412348
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $82,670 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $43,500 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,400 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $80,390 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Montana?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Private Investigator license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.