How to Verify a Contractor License in Illinois

Understanding Illinois Contractor Licensing

Like Texas and New York, Illinois does not require a state-level general contractor license. However, the state does license several specific trades through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), and many municipalities have their own contractor licensing requirements.

At the state level, IDFPR licenses roofing contractors, plumbers, and several other professional categories. Illinois is notable for being one of the few states that requires a specific state license for roofing contractors — a response to the significant consumer complaints in this industry. Electricians in Illinois are not licensed at the state level but are typically licensed by their local municipality.

Chicago has its own extensive contractor licensing system through the Department of Buildings, similar to New York City. Other large Illinois cities like Aurora, Rockford, and Naperville have their own requirements. This means verification in Illinois often requires checking both state and local databases.

State-Licensed Trades in Illinois

The IDFPR licenses several trades at the state level that you should verify. Roofing contractors must hold a valid roofing contractor license to perform any roofing work in Illinois. This requirement was established after widespread complaints about roofing fraud, particularly after hailstorms and severe weather events. Licensed plumbers are regulated at the state level, requiring examination and experience. Other IDFPR-regulated professions include land surveyors, structural engineers, architects, and real estate professionals.

For electricians, you'll need to check with your local municipality. The City of Chicago licenses electricians through its Department of Buildings, while suburban communities have their own electrical licensing requirements.

How to Verify Using LicensedCheck

LicensedCheck includes Illinois licensing data from the IDFPR, making it easy to verify roofing contractors, plumbers, and other state-licensed professionals. Visit the Illinois professionals page and search by name or license number for instant results.

This is particularly useful for checking roofing contractors, which is the most commonly searched trade license in Illinois due to the state's severe weather and the prevalence of storm damage repair scams.

How to Verify Through IDFPR

You can verify state-issued licenses directly through the IDFPR's online License Lookup tool at idfpr.illinois.gov. Enter the licensee's name or license number to see their current status, license type, expiration date, and any disciplinary actions. The IDFPR database is comprehensive for state-licensed trades but will not include locally-licensed trades like electricians.

For Chicago projects, use the City of Chicago's Department of Buildings license search. For suburban projects, contact your local building department to verify contractor registrations and trade licenses specific to your municipality.

Illinois Roofing Contractor Protections

Illinois has specific consumer protections around roofing contractors that are worth understanding. All roofing contractors must be licensed by IDFPR and carry liability insurance. The Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act makes it illegal to perform roofing work without a license, with penalties including fines and potential criminal charges.

After severe storms, be especially cautious of door-to-door roofing contractors. Illinois law gives homeowners specific rights when dealing with storm damage repair contractors, including the right to cancel a contract within a certain period. Never let a contractor pressure you into signing an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form that gives them the right to deal directly with your insurance company.

If you have a complaint about a roofing contractor, file it with IDFPR, which has the authority to investigate, fine, and revoke licenses. You can also contact the Illinois Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.