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.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: IDFPR