Requirements, Fees & How to Apply — 2026 Guide
Illinois requires general contractor contractors to hold a general contractor license. A state exam is required. Application fees start at 150. Licenses renew 2 years. Bond required: 10000. Insurance: true. Governing body: Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation. Data verified 2026.
Step-by-step application process.
Illinois has no statewide general contractor license; Chicago and other cities require local licensing. Verify local requirements.
Yes. Illinois requires general contractor contractors to hold a general contractor license. Illinois has no statewide general contractor license; Chicago and other cities require local licensing. Verify local requirements.
In Illinois, the application fee is typically 150. Exam fees are 60. License fees are 150. Renewal is 150 per 2 years cycle.
Yes, Illinois requires passing a licensing exam for general contractor contractors. The exam typically covers state laws and regulations plus trade-specific knowledge.
Illinois general contractor licenses renew 2 years. Renewal fees are 150. Many states require continuing education for renewal. Contact Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation for current renewal requirements.
Illinois currently has limited formal reciprocity for general contractor licenses. Contact Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation to discuss your situation — experience from other states may still be credited.
Compare requirements in nearby states — useful if you work across state lines.
Once you're licensed, the right software keeps projects on budget and on schedule.