Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Law and Public Safety • New Jersey State Police
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,540 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 51,540, Private Investigators in New Jersey earn 2% below the national median of $52,370. New Jersey ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$51,540Hourly estimate
$24.782% below national median
Difference: -$830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $51,540 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $59,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $51,220 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $49,400 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | 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 Law and Public Safety • New Jersey State Police
PO Box 7068, W. Trenton, NJ, 8625 -7068
Phone: 6098822000
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $101,340 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $103,690 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $123,690 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in New Jersey?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in New Jersey is 51,540. Salaries range from $40,350 (10th percentile) to $100,910 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in New Jersey earn 2% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 51,540.
How many Private Investigators work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 790 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Law and Public Safety / New Jersey State Police. Review agency details at http://www.njsp.org/.