How To Get An Illinois Roofing License

November 29, 2025

2 min read

To get an Illinois roofing license, you need to complete apprenticeship training, pass exams, and meet work hour requirements set by the state. Illinois requires roofers to be licensed through the Department of Labor. The process takes time and effort, but it opens doors to a solid career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers in Illinois earn a median annual wage of $70,110, which is well above the national average. Let’s walk through the steps to get your Illinois roofing license.

What Are the Basic Requirements?

You must be at least 18 years old to start. You also need a high school diploma or GED. Most roofers in Illinois have a high school diploma or vocational training.

You need to complete an apprenticeship program. The program combines classroom learning with on-the-job training. According to industry data, 58% of roofers have a high school diploma, while 18% have vocational or technical training. This shows the importance of proper education before licensing.

Related articles:

How Long Is the Apprenticeship?

Illinois requires 8,000 hours of work experience as an apprentice. That is about four years of full-time work.

You also need 576 hours of classroom instruction. This training covers safety, tools, materials, and techniques. The classroom work happens during evenings or weekends while you work during the day.

What Are the Exam Requirements?

After your apprenticeship, you must pass a journeyman exam. The exam tests your knowledge of roofing codes, safety rules, and materials. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of roofers is expected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations. This growing demand makes getting your license even more valuable.

You also need to pass a practical exam. This exam shows you can do the work correctly. Both exams must be passed before you get your license.

What Should You Know About the Cost and Timeline?

Here is what to expect:

Apprenticeship hours: 8,000 required
Classroom hours: 576 required
Time to complete: About 4 years
Exam fees: Usually $100 to $300
Starting wage for apprentices: Often $15 to $20 per hour

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for roofers is $26.85, or $55,840 per year. In Illinois, roofers earn even more. Once licensed, you can earn significantly more than the apprentice wage. The investment in your license pays off through higher earnings and job security.

Related articles:

Connect with an experienced professional roofer to discuss your roofing needs and schedule an inspection.