Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber 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 Plumber in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Public Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,200 median (53% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 96,200, Plumbers in Illinois earn 53% above the national median of $62,970. Illinois ranks #1 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
$96,200Hourly estimate
$46.2553% above national median
Difference: +$33,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Plumber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Illinois | 96,200 |
| #2 | Oregon | 93,110 |
| #3 | Minnesota | 83,280 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | Alaska | 83,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Plumber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $96,200 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $78,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $61,230 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $62,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $62,370 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $64,560 | No educational requirements | 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 | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Public Health
535 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL, 62761
Phone: 2177852080
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 Plumber 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 Plumbers in Illinois?
Illinois lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Plumbers.
What education do you need to become a Plumber in Illinois?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Plumber licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Plumber salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in Illinois is 96,200. Salaries range from $47,880 (10th percentile) to $123,290 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Plumbers in Illinois earn 53% above the national median of $62,970, with a state median of 96,200.
How many Plumbers work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 18,730 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Plumbers in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Public Health. Review agency details at http://www.idph.state.il.us/.