How to become a private investigator in Maryland
Maryland private investigators are licensed by the Maryland Department of State Police, Licensing Division. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Maryland, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Maryland?
- At least 18
- Employed by or seeking work with a licensed private detective agency
- No felony or crime of violence conviction
- Not addicted to drugs, a habitual drunkard, or a fugitive
- Livescan fingerprints (state and FBI)
- Agency license: at least 25 and 3-5 years of qualifying detective or police experience
- Agencies employing 5 or more private detectives need at least $1,000,000 commercial general liability insurance.
Maryland private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Individuals need a Private Detective Certification tied to a licensed agency; running an agency needs a separate agency license. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Maryland Department of State Police, Licensing Division |
| License name | Private Detective Certification (Private Detective Agency License for owners) |
| Experience | Agency license: 3-5 years of qualifying detective or police experience. Individual private detectives are certified through a licensed agency. |
| License term | 3 years (certification) |
How much does it cost?
| Certification original application | $15.00 |
|---|---|
| Certification renewal | $10.00 |
| Agency license, individual | $200 |
| Agency license, incorporated firm | $375 |
| Agency individual renewal | $200 |
| Agency firm renewal | $400 |
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 Maryland
- Get a job offer from a licensed Maryland private detective agency
- Get Livescan fingerprints and a passport-style photo
- Apply in the MSP Licensing Portal within 30 days of fingerprinting
- Give your application number and PIN to the sponsoring agency, which pays the fee
- Wait up to 90 business days for a decision
- Apply again if you change agencies; renew at least 90 days before expiration
Apply on the official Maryland site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Maryland?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Maryland Department of State Police, Licensing Division.
- 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.