Private Investigator License: California vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your private investigator license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 6000 hours | 0 hours |
| Exam | California PI Licensing Exam | Illinois PI Licensing Exam |
| Application Fee | $175 | $300 |
| Exam Fee | $50 | $50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $3,000 - $4,000 | $2,000 - $3,000 |
| Renewal Period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| CE Hours | 0 hours | 0 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $175 | $300 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $2,000-$3,000 compared to $3,000-$4,000.
Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 6000 hours in California.
Full State Guides
Compare private investigator requirements across all 50 states →