Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,320 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of 79,320, Architects in Illinois earn 18% below the national median of $96,690. Illinois ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$79,320Hourly estimate
$38.1318% below national median
Difference: -$17,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#45 of 50 statesfor Architect median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Wyoming | 107,040 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 106,950 |
| #3 | California | 105,840 |
| #4 | Alaska | 105,340 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 105,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
Architect licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $79,320 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $93,310 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $86,990 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $97,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $93,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $79,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $79,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,640 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $104,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $60,680 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Architects in Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Illinois?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Architect licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Architect salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Architects in Illinois is 79,320. Salaries range from $58,560 (10th percentile) to $128,530 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Architects in Illinois earn 18% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 79,320.
How many Architects work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 5,580 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Architects in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.