Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Education
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Dept. of Teacher Educ. and Certification • Illinois State Board of Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,170 median (21% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Dept. of Teacher Educ. and Certification~Illinois State Board of Education and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $76,170, Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Illinois earn 21% above the national median of $63,000. Illinois ranks #9 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
$76,170Hourly estimate
$36.6221% above national median
Difference: +$13,170
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSpecial Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Salary Ranking
#9 of 50 statesfor Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $90,530 |
| #2 | Washington | $85,340 |
| #3 | Connecticut | $81,220 |
| #4 | New York | $80,750 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $78,820 |
Nearby States Comparison
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $76,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $59,860 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,350 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $52,140 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $57,090 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $57,910 | 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 | 54 | 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 | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Dept. of Teacher Educ. and Certification • Illinois State Board of Education
100 North First Street, Springfield, IL, 62777
Phone: 8008458749
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $66,670 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $83,580 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $82,490 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $60,410 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School 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 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Illinois is $76,170. Salaries range from $48,830 (10th percentile) to $100,620 (90th percentile).
How does the Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Illinois earn 21% above the national median of $63,000, with a state median of $76,170.
How many Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 12,550 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School 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 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Dept. of Teacher Educ. and Certification / Illinois State Board of Education. Review agency details at https://www.isbe.net/licensure.
How often do you renew a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.