Private Investigator / Minnesota
2026 data Minnesota board official source

Minnesota Private Investigator License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Conducts investigations for private clients and attorneys.

What the Minnesota data shows for Private Investigators

Minnesota sets the entry bar for private investigators at 2,134 training hours and a passing score on State Private Investigator Exam, with 3 years of supervised work experience expected. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Minnesota's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Training or Experience".

Budget $173 to get started, plus $155 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Minnesota doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific.

Licensing Requirements in Minnesota

Education / Training Hours
Training or Experience
2,134 hours
Exam Requirement
State Private Investigator Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$173
Renewal Fee
$155
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
3 years

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Compare all states for Private Investigator All Minnesota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Minnesota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Private Investigator in Minnesota? ▼
Minnesota requires 2134 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Private Investigator Exam), and an initial fee of $173. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Private Investigator in Minnesota? ▼
Certification as a private investigator in Minnesota means clearing the state's checklist: 2134 hours of education plus 3 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Minnesota licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Minnesota from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for private investigators: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Minnesota licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Minnesota require a background check for Private Investigator licensing? ▼
Minnesota does require a background check before issuing a private investigator license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.