How to become a private investigator in Ohio
Ohio private investigators are licensed by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Private Investigator Security Guard Services (PISGS). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Ohio, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Ohio?
- Company must have a Qualifying Agent who meets the experience rule
- Qualifying Agent passes a criminal background check and the PISGS exam
- Comprehensive general liability insurance of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence for bodily injury, plus $100,000 property damage
- No reciprocity with other states
Ohio private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Ohio licenses private investigation businesses (Class A or B) through a Qualifying Agent; employee investigators are registered under the license (ORC 4749). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Ohio Department of Public Safety, Private Investigator Security Guard Services (PISGS) |
| License name | Class B Private Investigation License (Class A covers investigation and security) |
| Experience | At least 2 years of investigative or security work, or practice of law, immediately before applying, or equivalent experience set by rule. |
| Exam | The Qualifying Agent must pass an exam set by the director (ORC 4749.03). |
| License term | 2 years for licenses issued on or after April 9, 2025 |
How much does it cost?
| License application | $200 |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Agent initial ($25 + $10 Rap Back) | $35 |
| License renewal | $550 |
| QA retest | $25 |
| Investigator employee registration | $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 Ohio
- Gain 2 years of qualifying experience
- Get fingerprinted for the BCI background check
- Apply online with PISGS and pay $235 ($200 license + $35 QA)
- Pass the Qualifying Agent exam
- File proof of liability insurance
- Register any investigator employees
Apply on the official Ohio site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Ohio?
- Search the name or license number on the official Ohio 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.