Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
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: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
The Unified JUDICIAL SYSTEM of PENNSYLVANIA • Courts of Common Pleas • PA Clerk of Courts
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,220 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 51,220, Private Investigators in Pennsylvania earn 2% below the national median of $52,370. Pennsylvania ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$51,220Hourly estimate
$24.632% below national median
Difference: -$1,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $51,220 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $59,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $51,540 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $49,400 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $46,830 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $50,060 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Jersey | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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
The Unified JUDICIAL SYSTEM of PENNSYLVANIA • Courts of Common Pleas • PA Clerk of Courts
Each county has its own, PA
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $95,640 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,330 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $92,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $103,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Pennsylvania is 51,220. Salaries range from $39,620 (10th percentile) to $89,300 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Pennsylvania earn 2% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 51,220.
How many Private Investigators work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 1,550 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is The Unified JUDICIAL SYSTEM of PENNSYLVANIA / Courts of Common Pleas / PA Clerk of Courts. Review agency details at http://www.pacourts.us/courts/courts-of-common-pleas/clerks-of-courts.