Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder 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 Welder in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Agriculture
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,730 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 49,730, Welders in Illinois earn 2% below the national median of $51,000. Illinois ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,730Hourly estimate
$23.912% below national median
Difference: -$1,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#32 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 76,970 |
| #2 | Alaska | 75,140 |
| #3 | Wyoming | 66,070 |
| #4 | Connecticut | 64,520 |
| #5 | Washington | 61,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Welder licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $49,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $55,630 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $49,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $49,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $49,260 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $48,460 | Degree required | No 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 50 | 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 | 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 Agriculture
State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL, 62794-9281
Phone: 2177824944
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 Welder 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 Welder salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Welders in Illinois is 49,730. Salaries range from $38,330 (10th percentile) to $70,750 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Welders in Illinois earn 2% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 49,730.
How many Welders work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 17,340 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder 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 Welders in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Agriculture. Review agency details at http://www.agr.state.il.us/.