🏛️ Illinois
Illinois Contractor License Requirements
Everything you need to know about hiring licensed contractors in Illinois. Verify licenses, understand requirements, and protect yourself.
License Types & Requirements
General Contractor
Requirement
Required for projects over $1,000+
License Fee
$100 - $400
🔄 Renewal
Every 2 years
📚 Continuing Education
8-12 hours
Electrical Contractor
Requirement
Required in all states
License Fee
$150 - $500
🔄 Renewal
Annual or biennial
📚 Continuing Education
12-24 hours
Plumbing Contractor
Requirement
Required in all states
License Fee
$100 - $400
🔄 Renewal
Annual or biennial
📚 Continuing Education
8-16 hours
HVAC Contractor
Requirement
Required — EPA 608 certification also needed
License Fee
$150 - $500
🔄 Renewal
Every 2 years
📚 Continuing Education
12-20 hours
Roofing Contractor
Requirement
Covered under general contractor license
License Fee
$200 - $500
🔄 Renewal
Every 2 years
📚 Continuing Education
8-16 hours
Common Exemptions in Illinois
✓ Clients performing work on their own primary residence (most trades)
✓ Projects under $1,000 in some jurisdictions
✓ Handyman work not requiring permits (varies by locality)
Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor in Illinois
- • You may lose legal recourse if work is defective
- • Your property insurance's insurance may deny claims
- • Permits pulled by unlicensed contractors are invalid
- • You could be held liable for worker injuries on your property
- • Unpermitted work must be disclosed when selling