Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter 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 Firefighter in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois State Fire Marshall
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,080 median (33% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Illinois State Fire Marshall and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $79,080, Firefighters in Illinois earn 33% above the national median of $59,530. 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
$79,080Hourly estimate
$38.0233% above national median
Difference: +$19,550
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $79,080 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $47,710 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,190 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $48,470 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $37,140 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $61,470 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 54 | 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 | 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 State Fire Marshall
1035 Stevenson Drive, Springfield, IL, 62703
Phone: 2177851010
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $78,750 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $101,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $38,630 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter 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 Firefighter salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Illinois is $79,080. Salaries range from $33,760 (10th percentile) to $117,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Illinois earn 33% above the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $79,080.
How many Firefighters work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 14,510 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter 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 Firefighters in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois State Fire Marshall. Review agency details at http://www.state.il.us/osfm.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.