How to become a private investigator in North Dakota
North Dakota private investigators are licensed by the North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a private investigator in North Dakota?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- No disqualifying criminal history (Board may waive)
- State and FBI criminal history check
- Certificate of $300,000 general liability with errors and omissions insurance
- Registered with the Secretary of State to do business in ND
- No reciprocity
North Dakota private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Private investigators must be licensed by the Private Investigation and Security Board, or registered as an employee of a licensed agency (NDCC 43-30). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board |
| License name | Private Investigator License |
| Experience | 2,000 hours of private investigative services as a registered employee of a detective agency. |
| Exam | Pass a Board exam, given in Bismarck by appointment, within 12 months before applying. |
| License term | 1 year; expires September 30 |
How much does it cost?
| Licensed PI application (Board forms page) | $225.00 plus $150.00 one-time application fee |
|---|---|
| Exam (NDAC 93-02-03-06) | $100 |
| Initial or renewal license (NDAC 93-02-03-06) | $150 |
| Criminal history check, ND and FBI | $43.00 |
| Study guide | $40 |
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 North Dakota
- Work 2,000 hours as a registered employee of a licensed detective agency
- Request the forms packet from the Board
- Schedule and pass the Board exam in Bismarck
- Submit application pages, two fingerprint cards and fees
- File the $300,000 liability insurance certificate
- Renew by September 30 each year
Apply on the official North Dakota site
How do you check a private investigator's license in North Dakota?
- Search the name or license number on the official North Dakota 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.