Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Trades
HVAC Technician Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for hvac technician in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for HVAC Technician in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Environmental Health • Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Environmental Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$71,620 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of 71,620, HVAC Technicians in Illinois earn 20% above the national median of $59,810. Illinois ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$71,620Hourly estimate
$34.4320% above national median
Difference: +$11,810
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationHVAC Technician Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor HVAC Technician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 83,660 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 76,990 |
| #3 | Connecticut | 73,910 |
| #4 | Minnesota | 73,390 |
| #5 | Illinois | 71,620 |
Nearby States Comparison
HVAC Technician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $71,620 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $62,030 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $59,490 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $60,330 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $58,880 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $60,310 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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
Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Environmental Health • Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Environmental Health
535 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL, 62761
Phone: 2177823517
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $76,410 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $96,360 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $130,070 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $47,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a HVAC Technician in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical HVAC Technician salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for HVAC Technicians in Illinois is 71,620. Salaries range from $44,520 (10th percentile) to $110,570 (90th percentile).
How does the HVAC Technician salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
HVAC Technicians in Illinois earn 20% above the national median of $59,810, with a state median of 71,620.
How many HVAC Technicians work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 8,510 HVAC Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my HVAC Technician 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 HVAC Technicians in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Environmental Health / Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Environmental Health. Review agency details at http://www.idph.state.il.us/.