Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Ohio, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio Department of Commerce • Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,060 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 50,060, Private Investigators in Ohio earn 4% below the national median of $52,370. Ohio ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$50,060Hourly estimate
$24.074% below national median
Difference: -$2,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $50,060 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $49,700 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $51,220 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $46,830 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $45,400 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Ohio Department of Commerce • Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing
6606 Tussing Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068
Phone: 6144664100
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,640 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,480 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $82,100 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Ohio?
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 is the typical Private Investigator salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Ohio is 50,060. Salaries range from $36,950 (10th percentile) to $80,290 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Ohio earn 4% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 50,060.
How many Private Investigators work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 1,360 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Ohio from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Private Investigators in Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio Department of Commerce / Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.com.ohio.gov/REAL.