Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- 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
There is some indication that this license exists in West Virginia, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$46,830 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 46,830, Private Investigators in West Virginia earn 11% below the national median of $52,370. West Virginia ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$46,830Hourly estimate
$22.5111% below national median
Difference: -$5,540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $46,830 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $51,220 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $48,740 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | 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. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
There is some indication that this license exists in West Virginia, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $88,200 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $77,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in West Virginia is 46,830. Salaries range from $22,090 (10th percentile) to $77,700 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in West Virginia earn 11% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 46,830.
How many Private Investigators work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 250 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is There is some indication that this license exists in West Virginia, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts.