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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $57,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $68,290 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- 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
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 | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $100,880 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Rhode Island?
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 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. 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.