Private Investigator License in Nevada
Quick Answer
To become a Private Investigator in Nevada, need 5 years (10,000 hours) investigative experience, pass board exam (75%), FBI background check, $200,000 liability insurance. Background investigation deposit: $750. Annual renewal: $500. One of the most demanding and expensive states for PI licensing.
- Exam
- Nevada State Board PI Exam (75% passing score)
- Total Cost
- $1,428 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Annual
Requirements
Private Investigator license in Nevada
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $20
- Exam Fee
- $100
- Renewal Fee
- $500
- Total Estimated Cost
- $1,428
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Private Investigator license in Nevada. 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 Nevada licensing board.
Private Investigator Salary in Nevada
Entry Level
$40,250
Median
$47,550
Experienced
$187,200
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 Nevada.
- 1
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — Nevada State Board PI Exam (75% passing score)
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$20.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 months.
Private Investigator Licensing in Nevada: What to Know
Nevada provides very detailed PI licensing requirements. Must be 21+, good moral character, undergo FBI and DPS background check, no felony convictions involving moral turpitude or weapon offenses. Significant experience requirement: 5 years (10,000 hours) investigative experience certified by employer, or combination of education and experience acceptable to the board. Must pass State Board exam with 75% or better. Must obtain at least $200,000 liability insurance. If carrying a firearm, must be certified by board-certified instructor. Background investigation deposit: $750 for first license category, $250 for each additional. Fees: Application processing $20, Exam $100 (nonrefundable), Initial license (prorated), Annual renewal $500, Firearms initial certification $100, Annual firearms renewal $50, Fingerprints $38.25. Abeyance fee: $100/license/year. Total initial estimated: $20 + $100 + $750 (investigation) + $500 (license, prorated) + $38.25 + $17 (approximate) = ~$1,428.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Private Investigator license cost in Nevada?
- The estimated total cost is $1,428, including application fees, exam fees ($100), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Private Investigator license in Nevada?
- 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 Nevada?
- You need to pass the Nevada State Board PI Exam (75% passing score). 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.