Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,610 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Private Investigator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to RI Department of Health~Health Professions Regulation and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $51,610, Private Investigators in Rhode Island earn 1% below the national median of $52,370. Rhode Island ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$51,610Hourly estimate
$24.811% below national median
Difference: -$760
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#19 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $51,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $57,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $68,290 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Connecticut | 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
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222828
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $57,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Private Investigator licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Rhode Island is $51,610. Salaries range from $38,000 (10th percentile) to $79,940 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Rhode Island earn 1% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of $51,610.
How many Private Investigators work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 100 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.
How often do you renew a Private Investigator license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.