Trades and General Contractors License Requirements in Illinois
Yes — to operate a trades and general contractors business in Illinois, you need a Illinois General Contractor License from Illinois Contractor Licensing Board. The license costs approximately $850 initial, $510 renewal and renews every 2 years. Key requirements include: Pass contractor licensing examination and Submit proof of experience (4+ years).
Illinois Trades and General Contractors License at a Glance
- License: Illinois General Contractor License
- Regulator: Illinois Contractor Licensing Board
- Estimated fee: $850 initial, $510 renewal
- Renewal period: 2 years
- Processing time: 30-90 days
- Last verified: 2026-07-21
Key Requirements
- Pass contractor licensing examination
- Submit proof of experience (4+ years)
- Obtain contractor bond
- Maintain liability insurance
- Register with state contractor board
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to run a trades and general contractors business in Illinois?
Yes. Trades and General Contractors businesses in Illinois need a Illinois General Contractor License issued by Illinois Contractor Licensing Board before operating. Operating without it can result in fines, business closure, and legal liability.
How do I get a trades and general contractors license in Illinois?
To obtain a trades and general contractors license in Illinois, you must: Pass contractor licensing examination, Submit proof of experience (4+ years), Obtain contractor bond. The license is issued by Illinois Contractor Licensing Board and typically costs $850 initial, $510 renewal.
How much does a trades and general contractors license cost in Illinois?
A trades and general contractors license in Illinois costs approximately $850 initial, $510 renewal. This fee covers the initial application. Renewal occurs every 2 years.
How long does it take to get a trades and general contractors license in Illinois?
Processing time for a Illinois trades and general contractors license is typically 30-90 days. Processing times may vary based on application completeness and background check requirements.
Who regulates trades and general contractors businesses in Illinois?
Trades and General Contractors businesses in Illinois are regulated by Illinois Contractor Licensing Board. They oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement for this industry.