How to become a private investigator in Missouri
Missouri private investigators are licensed by the Missouri Board of Private Investigator and Private Fire Investigator Examiners (Division of Professional Registration). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Missouri, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Missouri law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a private investigator in Missouri?
- U.S. citizen
- Verified statement of investigative experience
- Fingerprint background check through the Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI
- Liability insurance of at least $250,000
- Workers' compensation insurance if the business is subject to it
- Proof of at least $250,000 in liability insurance, on a certificate issued by an insurer licensed in Missouri.
Missouri private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Private investigators need a state license from the Board of Private Investigator and Private Fire Investigator Examiners. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Missouri Board of Private Investigator and Private Fire Investigator Examiners (Division of Professional Registration) |
| License name | Private Investigator |
| Experience | Verified statement of investigative experience (no set hours stated in statute). |
| Exam | A written exam on investigator rules and regulations, which must be passed within one year of application approval; the board may waive it in some cases. |
| License term | 2 years; To renew: 16 hours of continuing education every two years. |
How much does it cost?
| Investigator application | $500 |
|---|---|
| Exam | $80 |
| Investigator renewal | $400 |
| Renewal penalty | $100 |
| Licensed agency employee application | $100 |
| Agency application | $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 Missouri
- Register for a MOPRO account and complete the board's application.
- Submit fingerprints to the Missouri State Highway Patrol's approved vendor.
- Send two passport-style photos, proof of insurance and your experience statement.
- Pay the $500 application fee.
- Pass the written exam within one year of approval.
- Renew every two years with 16 hours of continuing education.
Apply on the official Missouri site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Missouri?
- Search the name or license number on the official Missouri private investigator license lookup.
- 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.