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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in North Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 North Dakota eligibility requirements for Private Investigator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to ND Private Investigative and Security Board and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $72,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $52,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $47,910 | Varies by state board | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $45,740 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in North Dakota?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Private Investigator license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.