How to become a private investigator in Arkansas
Arkansas private investigators are licensed by the Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services Division (PI and Security). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Arkansas, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Arkansas?
- At least 21
- Background check with two fingerprint cards
- Work under the supervision of a qualified manager of a licensed Class A company
Arkansas private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Arkansas requires private investigators to hold a Credentialed Private Investigator credential from the Arkansas State Police. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services Division (PI and Security) |
| License name | Credentialed Private Investigator (CPI) |
| Exam | Pass the Arkansas State Police exam with a score of 70% or higher; it is given Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. at State Police headquarters in Little Rock. Applicants with five consecutive years of recent law enforcement experience are exempt. |
| License term | 2 years. |
How much does it cost?
| Credentialed Private Investigator fee | $450.00 |
|---|---|
| State background check | $22.00 |
| Federal background check fees | $16.00 |
| Total due with application | $488.00 |
| Re-examination fee | $50.00 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a private investigator in Arkansas
- Get hired by a licensed Class A investigations company
- Complete the CPI application with the qualified manager's signature
- Add two fingerprint cards, photos and the release form
- Submit with the $488.00 total fee
- Schedule and pass the exam
- Renew every two years
Apply on the official Arkansas site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Arkansas?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services Division (PI and Security).
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.