Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Athletic Trainer Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for athletic trainer in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Athletic Trainer in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
An individual who, under the direction of a team and/or consulting physician, carries out the practice of preventive and emergency care and physical reconditioning of injuries incurred by athletes participating in an athletic program, or a person who, under the direction of a physician, carries out comparable functions for health organization-based extramural programs of athletic training services.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required 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
$62,140 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Athletic Trainer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $62,140, Athletic Trainers in Illinois earn 3% above the national median of $60,250. Illinois ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$62,140Hourly estimate
$29.883% above national median
Difference: +$1,890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationAthletic Trainer Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor Athletic Trainer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $77,350 |
| #2 | California | $74,150 |
| #3 | Hawaii | $70,930 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $67,090 |
| #5 | Texas | $66,430 |
Nearby States Comparison
Athletic Trainer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $62,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $60,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $49,700 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $54,340 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $51,550 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $57,750 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Athletic Trainer in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Athletic Trainers in Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Athletic Trainers.
What education do you need to become a Athletic Trainer in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Athletic Trainer licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Athletic Trainer salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Athletic Trainers in Illinois is $62,140. Salaries range from $46,940 (10th percentile) to $91,690 (90th percentile).
How does the Athletic Trainer salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Athletic Trainers in Illinois earn 3% above the national median of $60,250, with a state median of $62,140.
How many Athletic Trainers work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 900 Athletic Trainers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Athletic Trainer license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Athletic Trainers in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.
How often do you renew a Athletic Trainer license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.