Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Transportation
Commercial Pilot Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for commercial pilot in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Commercial Pilot in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Physical Requirement: Vision test required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
For more information contact the state DMV or https://cms.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- centrally
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Driver Services Department
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$105,290 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Driver Services Department and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $105,290, Commercial Pilots in Illinois earn 14% below the national median of $122,670. Illinois ranks #31 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
$105,290Hourly estimate
$50.6214% below national median
Difference: -$17,380
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCommercial Pilot Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Commercial Pilot median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $229,820 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $227,140 |
| #3 | New York | $172,500 |
| #4 | Texas | $162,930 |
| #5 | Delaware | $155,640 |
Nearby States Comparison
Commercial Pilot licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $105,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $103,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $101,040 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $124,060 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $101,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $96,730 | No educational requirements | State 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 | 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 | 60 | Medium | 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 | 60 | Medium | 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
Official website verified
Driver Services Department
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,790 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $79,700 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $301,580 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot 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 Commercial Pilots in Illinois?
Illinois lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Commercial Pilots.
What education do you need to become a Commercial Pilot in Illinois?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Commercial Pilot salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Illinois is $105,290.
How does the Commercial Pilot salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Commercial Pilots in Illinois earn 14% below the national median of $122,670, with a state median of $105,290.
How many Commercial Pilots work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 1,010 Commercial Pilots according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Commercial Pilot 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 Commercial Pilots in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Driver Services Department. Review agency details at http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/.
How often do you renew a Commercial Pilot license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.