Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Trades
Locksmith Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for locksmith in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Locksmith in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,360 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 47,360, Locksmiths in Illinois earn 6% below the national median of $50,490. Illinois ranks #33 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
$47,360Hourly estimate
$22.776% below national median
Difference: -$3,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLocksmith Salary Ranking
#33 of 50 statesfor Locksmith median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Rhode Island | 73,120 |
| #2 | Connecticut | 64,470 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 62,670 |
| #4 | Georgia | 61,610 |
| #5 | California | 61,500 |
Nearby States Comparison
Locksmith licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $47,360 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $47,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $45,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $47,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $44,850 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $49,320 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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 | 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
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
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 |
| HVAC Technician | $71,620 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Locksmith 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 exams are required for Locksmiths in Illinois?
Illinois lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Locksmiths.
What education do you need to become a Locksmith in Illinois?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Locksmith licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Locksmith salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Locksmiths in Illinois is 47,360. Salaries range from $36,120 (10th percentile) to $79,190 (90th percentile).
How does the Locksmith salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Locksmiths in Illinois earn 6% below the national median of $50,490, with a state median of 47,360.
How many Locksmiths work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 560 Locksmiths according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Locksmith 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 Locksmiths in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.