Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
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
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND Private Investigative and Security Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,710 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Dakota
With a median salary of 45,710, Private Investigators in North Dakota earn 13% below the national median of $52,370. North Dakota ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$45,710Hourly estimate
$21.9813% below national median
Difference: -$6,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#38 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 Dakota | $45,710 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $72,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $52,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $47,910 | Varies by state board | 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 Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
ND Private Investigative and Security Board
513 E Bismarck Expressway Ste 5, Bismarck, ND, 58504
Phone: 7012223063
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,990 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in North Dakota?
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 Dakota?
North Dakota lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in North Dakota?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in North Dakota is 45,710. Salaries range from $31,110 (10th percentile) to $64,820 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in North Dakota earn 13% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 45,710.
How many Private Investigators work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 60 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND Private Investigative and Security Board. Review agency details at https://www.pisb.nd.gov/.