Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Environmental Scientist in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Experience: Work experience required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 4
A person who, by virtue of education and experience in the physical, chemical, biological, and environmental health sciences, is especially trained to organize, implement, and manage environmental health programs
- is trained to carry out education and enforcement activities for the promotion and protection of public health and the environment
- and is licensed as an environmental health practitioner.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$89,010 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (A person who, by virtue of education and experience in the physical, chemical, biological, and environmental health sciences, is especial...).
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required state examinations.
- 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.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $89,010, Environmental Scientists in Illinois earn 11% above the national median of $80,060. Illinois ranks #5 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
$89,010Hourly estimate
$42.7911% above national median
Difference: +$8,950
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor Environmental Scientist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $97,520 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $96,330 |
| #3 | Oregon | $93,560 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | $90,460 |
| #5 | Illinois | $89,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Environmental Scientist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $89,010 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $68,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $74,060 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $67,190 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $68,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $77,380 | 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 | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Wisconsin | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 56 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $49,710 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $61,830 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $30,690 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Forester | $75,160 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist 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 Environmental Scientist salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in Illinois is $89,010. Salaries range from $52,790 (10th percentile) to $164,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in Illinois earn 11% above the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $89,010.
How many Environmental Scientists work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 1,330 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist 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 Environmental Scientists 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 Environmental Scientist license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.