Roofing Contractor License Requirements in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) |
| License Type | Roofing Contractor License (Limited or Unlimited) |
| Experience Required | Illinois does not specify a minimum number of years of experience. Instead, the state examination is used to determine if an applicant has the experience, knowledge, and skill to perform roofing work. A designated qualifying party must be named for each license — this person must have authority to supervise roofing operations and be actively engaged in day-to-day business activities. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Limited (Residential) Roofing Exam + Unlimited (Commercial/Industrial) Roofing Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $10,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 2-8 weeks (average 4-6 weeks). Register for exam at least 40 days before preferred date. |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $125 |
| Exam Fee | $226 |
| Renewal fee per cycle | $125 |
| Est. Initial Total | $476 |
Renewal: $125 every 2 years (expires December 31 of odd-numbered years)
Exam Requirements
Limited (Residential) Roofing Exam
Unlimited (Commercial/Industrial) Roofing Exam
Exam provider: Continental Testing Services (708-354-9911, continentaltesting.net)
License Tiers
Limited (Residential)
No specific years required — must pass exam demonstrating experience and knowledge
Exam: Required
Unlimited (Residential, Commercial, Industrial)
No specific years required — must pass more comprehensive exam
Exam: Required
Notes
- Illinois is unique in requiring statewide roofing contractor licensing under the Roofing Industry Licensing Act
- The Act was set to sunset on January 1, 2026, but SB2503 extended it to January 1, 2031
- SB2503 also updated advisory board composition to include representatives from every sector of the roofing industry
- The qualifying party must take the exam within 3 years of application filing and can only act for one license
- Exams are held 6 times per year (Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov) at Hillside and Springfield locations
- Limited license covers residential properties of 8 units or fewer
- Unlimited license covers residential, commercial, and industrial properties
- No reciprocity, but licensure by endorsement is possible if another state's standards are substantially equivalent
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a roofing contractor license in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois requires a statewide roofing contractor license through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
How much does a roofing contractor license cost in Illinois?
The estimated initial cost is $351, including application, exam, and license fees. A $10,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a roofing contractor license in Illinois?
Illinois does not specify a minimum number of years of experience. Instead, the state examination is used to determine if an applicant has the experience, knowledge, and skill to perform roofing work. A designated qualifying party must be named for each license — this person must have authority to supervise roofing operations and be actively engaged in day-to-day business activities.
What exams are required for a roofing contractor license in Illinois?
You must pass the Limited (Residential) Roofing Exam and Unlimited (Commercial/Industrial) Roofing Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by Continental Testing Services (708-354-9911, continentaltesting.net).
Do I need a bond for a roofing contractor license in Illinois?
Yes, a $10,000 surety bond is required. Limited License: $10,000 surety bond. Unlimited License: $25,000 surety bond.
How long does it take to get a roofing contractor license in Illinois?
Processing time is typically 2-8 weeks (average 4-6 weeks). Register for exam at least 40 days before preferred date. after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for roofing contractors in Illinois?
No, Illinois does not currently require continuing education for roofing contractor license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for roofing contractors in Illinois— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: IDFPR