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Contractor License in Illinois

Trade-specific

The short version

Illinois does not issue a single statewide general contractor license. Trades such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC are licensed at the state level through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, while general contracting is often handled by the county or city where you work.

Main agencyIllinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Official sitehttps://idfpr.illinois.gov
Licensing levelTrade-specific
Requirements, thresholds, and fees change, and local rules can be stricter than the state. Always confirm directly with the agency above and your local building department before you bid or pull a permit. This page is a starting point, not legal advice.

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Getting licensed in Illinois: the usual steps

  1. Confirm which classification you need (general, residential, or a specific trade).
  2. Check experience and exam requirements with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
  3. Carry the required general liability and, where required, workers comp insurance.
  4. Register your business entity and secure any bond the state asks for.
  5. Apply, pass any required exam, and keep the license renewed on schedule.

Insurance and a certificate of insurance (COI) are almost always part of it. You can track your own and your subs' COI dates with the free Krewbase COI tracker.