PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR License in Tennessee
Quick Answer
To become a Private Investigator in Tennessee, be 21+, US citizen/resident alien, affiliated with a licensed TN PI company, pass the state exam. CE: 12 hours per 2-year renewal. Apprenticeship (6 months) available under licensed PI supervision.
- Education Required
- 12 hours
- Exam
- Tennessee PI State Exam
- Timeline
- 2-4 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR license in Tennessee
PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR Salary in Tennessee
Entry Level
$37,150
Median
$46,560
Experienced
$105,140
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 Tennessee.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Tennessee PI State Exam
- 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 Tennessee: What to Know
Tennessee provides detailed PI licensing requirements. Must be 21+, US citizen or resident alien, good moral character, not declared mentally incompetent, no habitual drunkenness or narcotic addiction, affiliated with a licensed Tennessee PI company, and meet exam and CE requirements. Apprentice status (6 months) available for applicants sponsored by a licensed investigative company under direct supervision of a licensed investigator. Must pass an examination measuring investigative knowledge and competence. Continuing education: 12 hours every 2-year renewal period (commission encourages at least 1 hour/year in ethics). License renewal every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR license in Tennessee?
- 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 Tennessee?
- You need to pass the Tennessee PI State Exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.