Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OK Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Oklahoma
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Oklahoma, 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 Oklahoma
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$40,470 median (23% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 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 Oklahoma
With a median salary of 40,470, Private Investigators in Oklahoma earn 23% below the national median of $52,370. Oklahoma ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$40,470Hourly estimate
$19.4623% below national median
Difference: -$11,900
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $40,470 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $45,020 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $43,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $48,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $44,870 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $49,720 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training
2401 Egypt Rd., Ada, OK, 74820-0669
Phone: 4052395100
Related Careers in Oklahoma
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $83,270 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $76,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $99,540 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $73,020 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Oklahoma?
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 Oklahoma?
Oklahoma lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Oklahoma?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Private Investigator licensure in Oklahoma.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Oklahoma?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Oklahoma is 40,470. Salaries range from $36,420 (10th percentile) to $63,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Oklahoma compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Oklahoma earn 23% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 40,470.
How many Private Investigators work in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma employs approximately 320 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma?
The licensing agency is Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training. Review agency details at https://www.ok.gov/cleet/.