Application Fee
See agencyCourt Reporter Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for court reporter in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Court Reporter in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone 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
$76,030 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 49 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Court Reporter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $76,030, Court Reporters in Illinois earn 13% above the national median of $67,310. Illinois ranks #8 among 49 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
$76,030Hourly estimate
$36.55Difference: +$8,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCourt Reporter Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $109,220 |
| #2 | Texas | $105,550 |
| #3 | California | $103,640 |
| #4 | Washington | $102,620 |
| #5 | Iowa | $89,290 |
Nearby States Comparison
Court Reporter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $76,030 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $64,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $89,290 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $70,260 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $47,990 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 21 years |
| Indiana | $50,910 | No educational requirements | No 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 | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Wisconsin | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- 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
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $79,320 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $55,030 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $79,300 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $97,640 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Court Reporter 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 is the typical Court Reporter salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Court Reporters in Illinois is $76,030. Salaries range from $35,340 (10th percentile) to $118,570 (90th percentile).
How does the Court Reporter salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Court Reporters in Illinois earn 13% above the national median of $67,310, with a state median of $76,030.
How many Court Reporters work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 590 Court Reporters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Court Reporter license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Court Reporters 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 Court Reporter license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.