Licensing Guides
Illinois Electrical License: How to Become an Electrician in Illinois
Electrical, IL
May 5th, 2026
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Illinois
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Illinois?
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Illinois?
How Long Does It Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Illinois?
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Illinois?
Does My Illinois Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Illinois?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrical Work in Illinois?
Working with electricity is a dangerous and demanding job, but with the right education and training you can learn how to do it right and become an electrical professional in Illinois.
Everyone needs an electrician at some point. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 818,700 electricians nationwide and 22,880 in Illinois.
The national number is predicted to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 80,000 to the ranks of this important workforce. In Illinois, that growth rate is expected to be at 7%, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVAC or mechanical professionals, while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, construction employment in Illinois in July 2025 totaled 239,500, an increase of 3,100 (1.3%) from July 2024 and an increase of 11,600 (5%) from February 2020. So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from.
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Illinois
Is a license required for electricians in Illinois? Yes.
However, electrical licenses are issued by individual cities and counties, so license types and licensing requirements vary based on the jurisdiction. We’ll cover the electrical licensing requirements of the two most populous cities in Illinois: Chicago and Aurora.
The City of Chicago Department of Buildings issues licenses for supervising electricians and electrical contractors. While the city does not license electricians or apprentices, electrical contractors must ensure their employees complete training requirements.
In Aurora, the Division of Building and Permits within the Development Services Department requires commercial and residential electrical contractors to register with the city. The city does not license electricians or apprentices.
In addition, many counties in Illinois also require contractors to register if they work in the unincorporated areas of the county. You’ll need to contact the cities and counties where you plan to work to ensure you meet local licensing requirements.
Steps to Get an Electrical License in Illinois
In Illinois, licensing requirements for electricians vary based on the local jurisdiction. To get an electrical license in Chicago, follow these steps:
Be at least 21 years old.
Have at least two years of electrical work experience.
Apply for the supervising electrician exam with Continental Testing Services, which processes applications and administers exams on behalf of the Department of Buildings.
Pass the exam.
Pay all applicable fees.
To become an electrical contractor, you must own a business and employ at least one supervising electrician.
Submit an application to Continental Testing Services.
Pay all applicable fees.
How to Become an Electrician in Illinois
Licenses are issued at the local level in Illinois. The steps to obtain an electrician license vary based on the regulations of the municipality or county. To become a licensed supervising electrician in Chicago, you must:
Be at least 21 years of age.
Meet the experience and/or educational requirements.
Pass an electrical exam.
Pay all applicable fees.
Below are the specifics for each license.
Chicago
SUPERVISING ELECTRICIAN LICENSE (GENERAL AND LOW VOLTAGE)
Work experience: To become a supervising electrician, you must be at least 21 years old and have at least two years of experience installing, altering, repairing, and maintaining electrical wires, equipment, and apparatus, or equivalent experience, under the direct supervision of a supervising electrician or equivalent person.
Apply for license: Apply for the supervising electrician exam with Continental Testing Services, which processes applications and administers exams on behalf of the Department of Buildings.
Pay fees: $150 exam fee; $150 license fee for a one-year license
Limitations: Supervising low-voltage electricians are only permitted to perform electrical work involving Class 1, 2, and 3 remote-control, signaling and power-limited circuits, and communications circuits.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSE (GENERAL AND LOW VOLTAGE)
Work experience: An electrical contractor license requires all employees of the business to be a supervising electrician, completed an electrical apprenticeship approved by the U.S. Department of Labor, or currently work as an electrical apprentice. An electrical contractor must employ at least one licensed supervising electrician.
Apply for license: Submit an application to Continental Testing Services, which processes applications on behalf of the Department of Buildings.
Pay fees: $150 for a one-year license
Increased authority: Electrical contractors can own their own businesses, advertise electrical services, contract electrical work, and pull electrical permits.
Limitations: A low-voltage contractor license only permits electrical work involving Class 1, 2, and 3 remote-control, signaling and power-limited circuits, and communications circuits.
Aurora
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION (COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL)
Work experience: While Aurora does not mandate work experience for a contractor license, a qualifying party for the license must have passed an electrical exam. The city accepts exams from specific municipalities (listed in this document). Or applicants may take and pass the International Code Council (ICC) standard master electrician exam for a commercial license or the standard residential electrician exam for a residential license.
Apply for license: Submit an application to the Division of Building and Permits. Upload documents through the city’s online portal.
Pay fees: $200 fee for a one-year registration
Business registration: Contractors must register their business with the Illinois Secretary of State or have a “Doing Business As” (DBA) certificate from a county.
Insurance: Obtain liability insurance coverage of $1 million general aggregate, with $500,000 per occurrence.
Surety Bond: Obtain a $5,000 surety bond.
Limitations: A residential license only permits work in one- or two-family structures.
Increased authority: Electrical contractors can own their own businesses, advertise electrical services, contract electrical work, and pull electrical permits.
Types of Electrical Licenses in Illinois
What are the different types of electrician licenses in Illinois? Since licenses are issued at the local level, the types of licenses vary based on the jurisdiction. The City of Chicago has four types of electrician licenses. The city of Aurora has two types of electrician licenses.
Chicago
Supervising Electrician License — General
Supervising electrician licenses are issued to individuals who have two years of experience installing, altering, repairing, and maintaining electrical wires, equipment, and apparatus and have passed a written examination. A general license covers any type of electrical work.
Supervising Electrician License — Low Voltage
Low-voltage supervising electricians meet the requirements listed above. A low-voltage license only permits electrical work involving Class 1, 2, and 3 remote-control, signaling and power-limited circuits, and communications circuits.
Electrical Contractor License — General
An electrical contractor license is required to install, alter, or maintain any wiring or equipment for electricity for light, heat, power, signaling, or communication, or any other equipment regulated by the Chicago Electrical Code. This work requires a license even if a permit is not required. A general license covers any type of electrical work.
Employees must be a supervising electrician, or completed an electrical apprenticeship approved by the U.S. Department of Labor, or are currently working as an electrical apprentice. Contractors must maintain records showing compliance with this requirement at the work site for at least two years following completion of the work.
Electrical Contractor License — Low Voltage
Low-voltage contractors follow the same requirements listed above. A low-voltage license only allows the licensed business and its employees to perform electrical work involving Class 1, 2, and 3 remote-control, signaling and power-limited circuits, and communications circuits.
Aurora
Commercial Electrical Contractor Registration
A commercial electrical contractor performs electrical work on non-residential structures.
Residential Electrical Contractor Registration
A residential electrical contractor performs work only on one- and two-family structures.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician in Illinois
There are many benefits to obtaining your electrical license from a city or county in Illinois.
First and most importantly, most cities and counties in Illinois require electrical contractors or supervising electricians to obtain a license to legally perform any electrical work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
You begin earning money from the start as an electrical apprentice.
It protects your company and customers.
It gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
As you build on your expertise, your earning potential increases .
With a license you have authority to pull building permits and bid on projects.
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Illinois?
The annual mean wage for electricians in Illinois is $89,190 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. That salary can increase as you acquire more experience. An electrician salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median electrician salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.59% for entry-level workers, 3.24% for intermediate level, and 3.15% for senior level electricians. In Illinois those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $61,800
Intermediate (2-4 years): $72,500
Senior (4-7 years): $78,200
Salaries can vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. If you choose to start an electrical business, this blog can give you an idea of how to improve your profit margins.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of an electrical technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one electrician software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive average tickets.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Illinois?
The cost of an electrician license in Illinois varies depending on the local jurisdiction.
Fees in Chicago include:
Supervising electrician: $150 license fee for a one-year license
Electrical Contractor: $150 fee for a one-year license
Exam fees (only for supervising electrician): $150
Fees in Aurora include:
Electrical contractor: $200 registration fee for a one-year registration
Exam fees: Vary based on exam provider. Approved exams include specific municipalities or ICC exams.
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How Long Does it Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Illinois?
The minimum amount of time it takes to get an electrical license depends on the licensing regulations of the local jurisdiction.
In Chicago, it takes at least two years of experience and passing an exam to become a supervising electrician. Otherwise, electricians must complete a four-year apprenticeship program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor, or be an apprentice, to work for an electrical contractor.
The city of Aurora does not list minimum work experience requirements for electrical contractor licenses, although applicants must have passed a residential or master level electrical exam.
The great news is that as an apprentice you begin earning a wage from the very beginning. Compensation increases each year as you acquire more training and knowledge, until you are a licensed electrician. As a licensed contractor, you can start your own electrical business, be your own boss, and grow your business as much as you want. And we have a tool to help you.
Illinois Electrician Training Programs and Schools
There are many programs to get the training you need to become an electrician in Illinois. Since electrical licenses are issued at the local level, each city or county sets their own requirements for the licenses. Chicago requires electricians to have two years of work experience and pass an exam, or complete an apprenticeship approved by the U.S. Department of Labor consisting of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Apprenticeship Illinois lists approved apprenticeship programs throughout the state. In addition, there are a number of colleges offering an electrical apprenticeship combined with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in the electrical field.
Tuition: Tuition cost depends on the program you choose. Some apprenticeships are fully paid by your employer with required good grades. An Illinois state resident can expect to pay about $7,875 per year in tuition at a community college.
Program Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to use good customer service skills, possess mechanical capability, pay attention to detail, and be physically fit. The job typically includes hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces, and includes some heavy lifting.
For more detailed information about electrical school options in Illinois, check out our post — Electrician Schools in Illinois: The Ultimate Guide.
Illinois Electrician Licensing Exam Details
Licensing exams vary based on the city or county where you seek licensing. Some cities do not require a license or an exam.
Chicago
Chicago requires supervising electricians to pass an exam. Electrical contractors must employ at least one licensed supervising electrician.
Continental Testing Services (CTS) processes applications and administers exams on behalf of the Department of Buildings. CTS offers the supervising electrician exam and supervising low voltage electrician exam. The exam costs $150. The exam is open book with the approved reference material (more on this requirement in the next section). A passing score is 70% or higher. Once a candidate receives their testing result letter, they may reapply for the exam if they did not pass.
Supervising electrician (general and low voltage)
To be eligible to take this exam, you must be at least 21 years of age. You must also have at least two years of verified experience in the installation, maintenance, or alteration of building wiring systems relating to the license category.
The supervising electrician exam has 150 questions and a four-hour time limit. The low- voltage supervising electrician exam has 100 questions and a three-hour time limit. Subjects vary based on the exam but include electrical system principles and practices and Chicago Electrical Code.
Aurora
Aurora requires commercial electrical contractors to pass an exam from specific municipalities or the ICC standard master electrician exam. Residential electrical contractors must pass an exam from the municipalities listed in the link above, or the ICC residential electrician exam.
Applicants must contact the city where they wish to take the exam, or register for an ICC exam. Cost varies based on the exam.
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Illinois?
Whether you need to pass an exam depends on your license and the licensing regulations of the city or county where you’re working. Those who complete an apprenticeship will receive the work experience, training, and knowledge necessary to take the licensing exam.
In Chicago, applicants for a supervising electrician license must pass an exam administered by Continental Testing Services (CTS). The only approved reference candidates may bring to the testing site is the 2018 Chicago Electrical Code (National Fire Protection Association, 2018). City code is based on the NFPA 70, National Electrical Code (NEC).
Candidates should also download an updated reference document listing changes made after the publication of the city’s electrical code. CTS provides candidates with a copy of this document on testing day.
CTS also provides candidates a Chicago supervising electrician study guide and requirements, and a FAQ page for answers to frequently asked questions about licensing exams.
Who Issues Electrician Licenses in Illinois?
Local jurisdictions in Illinois issue electrician licenses. In Chicago, the Department of Buildings issues licenses for supervising electricians and electrical contractors. The department may be contacted by phone at (312) 744-3449 or through an online contact form on the Department of Buildings website.
In the City of Aurora, the Division of Building and Permits within the Development Services Department issues licenses for commercial and residential electrical contractors. The division may be contacted by phone at (630) 256-3130.
Does My Illinois Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
No. Since the state of Illinois does not issue electrician licenses, it does not have reciprocity agreements with other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Illinois?
Illinois issues electrician licenses at the local level, so it does not have reciprocity agreements with other states.
Individual cities or counties may issue licenses by reciprocity, but it depends on the local licensing regulations. For instance, Aurora issues electrical contractor registration based on licensing in other Illinois municipalities with equal testing procedures. Contractors must still register with the city and follow registration requirements.
National Electrical Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The main national electrical certifications are:
Independent Electrical Contractors certification
National Fire Protection Association certification
Professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability as a service provider and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Are There Electrician Scholarships in Illinois?
Yes, there are electrical scholarships in Illinois. Scholarships are awarded through the state, trade organizations, colleges, and universities.
Scholarship opportunities include:
How Can Someone Verify My Electrician License in Illinois?
License verification depends on the system of the local jurisdictions. In Chicago, potential clients or employees can verify your electrical licensure through the Department of Buildings contractor license lookup page. The page shows a list of active or inactive licenses, with the ability to search within the results.
When Can an Electrician License Be Suspended in Illinois?
A suspended electrical license means the licensee is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Each city or county has their own licensing regulations. Some of the reasons electrical licenses can be suspended or revoked in Chicago include:
Performing an act prohibited by city code relating to trade licenses.
Failing to perform a requirement in city code relating to trade licenses.
Using or directing an unlicensed individual to perform work when they are required to be licensed.
Performing work without the required permit.
Failing to contact the building official to schedule a required inspection.
Failing to promptly correct any substantial defect, error, or deficiency as directed by the building official.
Performing or directing work that poses a threat to the health and safety of workers or the public.
In Aurora, contractor registration may be revoked for failing to comply with city code or other ordinances.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Illinois electrical license regulations, refer to the Municipal Code of Chicago, City of Aurora Code of Ordinances, or code and regulations of the local jurisdiction.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrician Work in Illinois?
Performing electrical work in Illinois without a license is illegal. In Illinois, cities and counties set their own regulations and penalties for unlicensed work.
In Chicago, those working without a business license face a $250 to $500 fine for each offense. Each day constitutes a separate offense. Those who continue working after the business has been issued a cease-and-desist order face a $500 to $1,000 fine for each offense. Violators also face a misdemeanor charge and up to six months in jail.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Illinois electrical license regulations, refer to the Municipal Code of Chicago, City of Aurora Code of Ordinances, or code and regulations of the local jurisdiction.
Continuing Education
Each city or county sets their own licensing requirements, so the local jurisdiction determines whether continuing education is required before license renewal.
Chicago does not require continuing education for electrical licenses. Supervising electricians and electrical contractors must renew their licenses each year. The renewal fee for both licenses is $150. Existing license holders renew through the Department of Buildings online trade license renewal portal.
In Aurora, electrical contractors must renew their registration each year. The registration fee is $200. Contractors renew online through the city’s online portal.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all electrical industry news in several ways:
Check top electrician blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your electrical business.
Listen to top electrician podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive electrician business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
