Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
(No board is specified to oversee the license)
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$46,560 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 46,560, Private Investigators in Tennessee earn 11% below the national median of $52,370. Tennessee ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$46,560Hourly estimate
$22.3811% below national median
Difference: -$5,810
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $48,740 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $55,190 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $44,590 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $47,180 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $39,460 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $43,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 50 | 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. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
(No board is specified to oversee the license)
00000
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $85,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $75,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $89,390 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Private Investigator licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Tennessee is 46,560. Salaries range from $37,150 (10th percentile) to $105,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Tennessee earn 11% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 46,560.
How many Private Investigators work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 690 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is (No board is specified to oversee the license).