Wisconsin requires a state-level private investigator license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Public Safety / Licensing Board. The median salary is $55,601 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
Wisconsin requires a private investigator to hold a state license. Conduct investigations for individuals, attorneys, and businesses including surveillance, background checks, and fraud cases. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Public Safety / Licensing Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Experience in investigation, law enforcement, or related field (1-3 years) |
| Experience Details | Experience in investigation, law enforcement, or related field (1-3 years) |
Wisconsin requires passing the Wisconsin Private Investigator License Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $75.
| Exam Name | Wisconsin Private Investigator License Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Private Investigator License Exam |
| Application Fee | $75 |
Getting licensed as a private investigator in Wisconsin takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $75 and renewal fees of $75 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $75 |
| License Renewal | $75 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Private Investigators in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $55,601, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in Wisconsin |
| National average | $59,150 |
Yes — Wisconsin requires a state-level private investigator license. Conduct investigations for individuals, attorneys, and businesses including surveillance, background checks, and fraud cases.
The required exam is the Wisconsin Private Investigator License Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $75.
The median annual salary for private investigators in Wisconsin is $55,601. The national median is $59,150.
Wisconsin requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.