Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Natural Resources
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$108,570 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Illinois Department of Natural Resources and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $108,570, General Contractors in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $106,980. Illinois ranks #17 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
$108,570Hourly estimate
$52.201% above national median
Difference: +$1,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#17 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $108,570 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $113,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $96,300 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $104,350 | Varies by state board | Choice of state or third-party exam | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $99,620 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $99,600 | Degree required | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 50 | 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 Natural Resources
One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL, 62702-1271
Phone: 2177853423
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $79,700 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $50,450 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $76,410 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $73,050 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor 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 General Contractor salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in Illinois is $108,570. Salaries range from $61,850 (10th percentile) to $166,830 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
General Contractors in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $108,570.
How many General Contractors work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 16,740 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor 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 General Contractors in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Review agency details at https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/.
How often do you renew a General Contractor license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.