Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Science
Forester Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for forester 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 Forester in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Emergency Management Agency
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$75,160 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Forester licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Illinois Emergency Management Agency and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $75,160, Foresters in Illinois earn 6% above the national median of $70,660. Illinois ranks #14 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
$75,160Hourly estimate
$36.136% above national median
Difference: +$4,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationForester Salary Ranking
#14 of 50 statesfor Forester median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $98,870 |
| #2 | Alaska | $85,550 |
| #3 | Iowa | $80,590 |
| #4 | Maryland | $79,890 |
| #5 | Louisiana | $79,580 |
Nearby States Comparison
Forester licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $75,160 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $65,960 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $80,590 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $62,980 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $54,580 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $53,650 | 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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. 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 Emergency Management Agency
110 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL, 62701
Phone: 2177850229
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 |
| Environmental Scientist | $89,010 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Forester 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 Forester salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Foresters in Illinois is $75,160. Salaries range from $50,890 (10th percentile) to $111,340 (90th percentile).
How does the Forester salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Foresters in Illinois earn 6% above the national median of $70,660, with a state median of $75,160.
How many Foresters work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 170 Foresters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Forester 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 Foresters in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Emergency Management Agency. Review agency details at http://www.state.il.us/iema/.
How often do you renew a Forester license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.