How to Become an Electrician in Illinois

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Illinois

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $72,560/year
Job Outlook: 6% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: No
Continuing Ed: 16 hours/triennial (3 years) - varies by locality

✓ Information verified from official sources (Last updated: 2025-01-27)

⚠️ Important Note for Illinois

Illinois does NOT have statewide electrical licensing. Licensing is handled by local jurisdictions. Chicago has its own comprehensive licensing system.

Electrician License Requirements in Illinois

Licensing Authority

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (local licensing)

Phone: (888) 473-4858

Website: https://idfpr.illinois.gov/

Official Source: https://idfpr.illinois.gov/

License Types & Requirements

Apprentice Electrician

  • Exam Required: No
  • Requirements: Local jurisdiction requirements; no state registration

Journeyman Electrician (local)

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - Local exam
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, local exam (Chicago, Cook County have requirements)

Electrical Contractor

  • Exam Required: Yes - Local exam
  • Application Fee: $200
  • Requirements: Local jurisdiction licensing, varies by municipality

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Illinois

Step 1: Complete High School Education

Earn a high school diploma or GED. Focus on math (especially algebra and trigonometry), physics, and shop classes if available.

Step 2: Enter an Apprenticeship Program

Apply to an apprenticeship program through a union (IBEW) or independent electrical contractor. In Illinois, you'll typically need 8000 hours of on-the-job training.

Step 3: Complete Required Hours

Work under supervision while logging your hours. Most apprenticeships in Illinois take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the Local exam journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (local licensing) with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Illinois

Entry Level: $50,140/year
Median Salary: $72,560/year
Experienced: $95,280/year

Source: BLS May 2024

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Illinois

  • Chicago
  • Aurora
  • Naperville
  • Joliet
  • Rockford

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Illinois, you must complete 16 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years) - varies by locality.

Start Your Electrician Career in Illinois

Contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (local licensing) for application details and approved training programs.

Visit Licensing Board

Recommended Resources

📘
NFPA 70: NEC 2026 Required for most exams
📗
Ugly's Electrical References Quick reference guide
🔧
Klein Tools Apprentice Tool Set Essential hand tools

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