Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Department of Public Safety • Regulatory Services Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,070 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 Texas
With a median salary of 48,070, Private Investigators in Texas earn 8% below the national median of $52,370. Texas ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$48,070Hourly estimate
$23.118% below national median
Difference: -$4,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#32 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $48,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $40,470 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $43,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $43,390 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $44,870 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | 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: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Texas Department of Public Safety • Regulatory Services Division
PO Box 4087, Austin, TX, 78773-0001
Phone: 5124647293
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $85,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,000 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $95,050 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $82,180 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Texas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Private Investigator licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Texas is 48,070. Salaries range from $35,890 (10th percentile) to $99,600 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Texas earn 8% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 48,070.
How many Private Investigators work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 3,440 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Department of Public Safety / Regulatory Services Division. Review agency details at https://www.dps.texas.gov/RSD/.