How to become a private investigator in Nevada
Nevada private investigators are licensed by the Nevada Private Investigators Licensing Board (PILB). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Nevada, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Nevada?
- At least 21 years old
- U.S. citizen or lawfully entitled to work in the U.S.
- Good moral character
- No felony, crime of moral turpitude or illegal weapon conviction
- FBI and Nevada DPS background check
- 5 years (10,000 hours) of investigative experience, or the equivalent
- Liability insurance of at least $200,000, or proof of means to self-insure.
Nevada private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Anyone running a private investigation business needs a PILB license. Investigators working for a licensed firm need a work card instead. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Nevada Private Investigators Licensing Board (PILB) |
| License name | Private Investigator |
| Experience | 5 years (10,000 hours) of investigative experience; a criminal justice or police science associate degree counts as 1,333 hours and a bachelor's as 3,000 hours. |
| Exam | A board exam, given quarterly (January, April, July, October), with a passing score of 75%. |
| License term | 1 year; expires June 30, renew May 15 to June 30 |
How much does it cost?
| Application processing (non-refundable) | $20 |
|---|---|
| Examination, per category | $100 |
| Background investigation deposit, first category | $750 |
| Background investigation deposit, each additional category | $250 |
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 Nevada
- Build 5 years (10,000 hours) of investigative experience, certified by employers.
- Apply to PILB and pay the $20 application fee and $750 background deposit.
- Complete the FBI and Nevada DPS background check.
- Pass the quarterly exam with 75% or better.
- Show proof of $200,000 liability insurance and pay the prorated license fee.
- Renew every year by June 30.
Apply on the official Nevada site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Nevada?
- Search the name or license number on the official Nevada 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.