General Contractor License Requirements in Illinois
No Statewide License Required
Illinois does not require a statewide general contractor license. Illinois general contractor licensing is entirely local. Chicago has 5 license classes: Class A ($2,000 fee, unlimited project value, $5M GL per occurrence), Class B ($1,000, up to $10M projects, $3M GL), Class C ($750, up to $5M projects, $1M/$2M GL). Chicago also requires a $10,000 surety bond, $500,000 auto liability, and a proctored exam. Cook County requires contractor registration. Other municipalities (Springfield, Peoria, Naperville, etc.) have their own requirements — always check your local building department.
No state insurance mandate for general contractors. Workers comp is mandatory for any Illinois employer with even one employee — construction is classified as extra-hazardous so owners/officers cannot be exempted. Failure to carry workers comp can result in fines of $500/day with a $10,000 minimum. GL insurance amounts are set by local jurisdictions.
Trades that DO require a state license in Illinois:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in Illinois?
No, Illinois does not require a statewide general contractor license. However, local permits or registrations may be required. Illinois general contractor licensing is entirely local. Chicago has 5 license classes: Class A ($2,000 fee, unlimited project value, $5M GL per occurrence), Class B ($1,000, up to $10M projects, $3M GL), Class C ($750, up to $5M projects, $1M/$2M GL). Chicago also requires a $10,000 surety bond, $500,000 auto liability, and a proctored exam. Cook County requires contractor registration. Other municipalities (Springfield, Peoria, Naperville, etc.) have their own requirements — always check your local building department.
What do I need to work as a general contractor in Illinois?
While no statewide license is required, you may need local business licenses, building permits, or contractor registration depending on your city or county. No state insurance mandate for general contractors. Workers comp is mandatory for any Illinois employer with even one employee — construction is classified as extra-hazardous so owners/officers cannot be exempted. Failure to carry workers comp can result in fines of $500/day with a $10,000 minimum. GL insurance amounts are set by local jurisdictions.
Does Illinois require insurance for general contractors?
General liability insurance is recommended for general contractors in Illinois. Workers compensation is required if you have employees. No state insurance mandate for general contractors. Workers comp is mandatory for any Illinois employer with even one employee — construction is classified as extra-hazardous so owners/officers cannot be exempted. Failure to carry workers comp can result in fines of $500/day with a $10,000 minimum. GL insurance amounts are set by local jurisdictions.
What trades DO require a state license in Illinois?
Illinois requires statewide licensing for: plumber, roofing contractor. Each has its own licensing authority, fees, and requirements.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: No state licensing authority (local jurisdictions only)