How to become a private investigator in Montana
Montana private investigators are licensed by the Montana Board of Private Security / Private Security Program, Department of Labor and Industry. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Montana, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Montana?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- State and FBI fingerprint background check
- 5,400 hours of experience, or a mix of education, training and experience
- At least $500,000 in commercial general liability insurance (occurrence form) that includes personal injury; firearms liability coverage if armed.
Montana private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Private investigators need a state license from the Department of Labor and Industry's Private Security Program. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Montana Board of Private Security / Private Security Program, Department of Labor and Industry |
| License name | Private Investigator |
| Experience | 5,400 cumulative hours of experience, or a combination of education, training and experience. |
| Exam | A written exam on Montana's private security laws and rules, taken after the application is approved. |
| License term | 1 year; all licenses renew by March 1 |
How much does it cost?
| Application | $80 |
|---|---|
| Renewal | $160 |
| Late renewal | $80 |
| Armed endorsement (optional) | $50 |
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 Montana
- Document 5,400 hours of experience, or an equivalent mix of education and training.
- Get the required liability insurance.
- Apply online and pay the $80 fee.
- Send fingerprints to the Montana Department of Justice for state and FBI checks.
- Pass the written exam after your application is approved.
- Renew every year between January 1 and March 1.
Apply on the official Montana site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Montana?
- Search the name or license number on the official Montana 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.