Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$43,210 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 Wisconsin
With a median salary of 43,210, Private Investigators in Wisconsin earn 17% below the national median of $52,370. Wisconsin ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$43,210Hourly estimate
$20.7717% below national median
Difference: -$9,160
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#48 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $43,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $72,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $45,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $73,070 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $49,700 | Varies by state board | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 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
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
1400 E. Washington Ave., P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI, 53708-8935
Phone: 6082662112
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,310 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $90,770 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $115,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Wisconsin is 43,210. Salaries range from $36,220 (10th percentile) to $74,240 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Wisconsin earn 17% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 43,210.
How many Private Investigators work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 450 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Department of Safety and Professional Services / Division of Professional Credential Processing. Review agency details at https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Default.aspx.