Private Investigator License in Arkansas
Quick Answer
To become a Private Investigator in Arkansas, be 18+, have 2 years investigative experience (or law enforcement background), pass background check, pass state exam (free initial, $50 re-exam). License fee: $300. Renewal: $150/2 years. Law enforcement officers with 5+ years may be exempt from exam.
- Exam
- Arkansas PI State Exam ($50 re-exam fee)
- Total Cost
- $336 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Private Investigator license in Arkansas
Estimated Costs Est.
- Exam Fee
- $0
- Renewal Fee
- $150
- Total Estimated Cost
- $336
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Private Investigator license in Arkansas. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Arkansas licensing board.
Private Investigator Salary in Arkansas
Entry Level
$35,350
Median
$43,310
Experienced
$109,010
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Private Investigator in Arkansas.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — Arkansas PI State Exam ($50 re-exam fee)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 months.
Private Investigator Licensing in Arkansas: What to Know
Arkansas provides very detailed PI licensing requirements through the Department of Public Safety / State Police. Requirements: 18+ years old, no habitual drunkenness or narcotic addiction, no dishonorable military discharge, not adjudicated mentally incompetent, not a registered sex offender. No felony convictions, no Class A misdemeanors involving theft/violence/dishonesty (unless 10+ years ago). Experience requirement: 2 consecutive years in investigative field (as agent, employee, manager, or owner), or 2 years as licensed bail bondsman plus a bachelor's degree. Law enforcement officers with 5+ consecutive years experience (current or retired within 5 years) are exempt from examination. Exam: no fee for initial exam ($50 re-exam). License fee: $300. Renewal: $150 every 2 years. Background check: $36.25 every 2 years. CE required. Military-friendly: temporary license available.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Private Investigator license cost in Arkansas?
- The estimated total cost is $336, including application fees, and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Private Investigator license in Arkansas?
- The process typically takes 2-4 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Private Investigator license in Arkansas?
- You need to pass the Arkansas PI State Exam ($50 re-exam fee). State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Private Investigator requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.