Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Public Safety • Private Protective Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$55,190 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 55,190, Private Investigators in North Carolina earn 5% above the national median of $52,370. North Carolina ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$55,190Hourly estimate
$26.535% above national median
Difference: +$2,820
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#13 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $55,190 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $48,740 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $44,590 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $53,890 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 56 | Medium | 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
NC Department of Public Safety • Private Protective Services
3101 Industrial Drive, Ste. 104, Raleigh, NC, 27609
Phone: 9197885320
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in North Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in North Carolina is 55,190. Salaries range from $36,150 (10th percentile) to $99,550 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in North Carolina earn 5% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 55,190.
How many Private Investigators work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,370 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Public Safety / Private Protective Services. Review agency details at https://www.ncdps.gov/about-dps/boards-commissions/private-protective-services-board.