How To Get Roofing License In Illinois

November 30, 2025

2 min read

dilshadakram

To get a roofing license in Illinois, you need to complete apprenticeship hours, pass exams, and apply through the state. Illinois requires roofers to be licensed to work legally. The process takes time and effort, but it opens doors to a good 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. This guide walks you through each step to get your license.

What Are the Basic Requirements?

To start, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Most roofers in Illinois begin as helpers or apprentices. According to industry data, 58% of roofers hold a high school diploma as their highest education level.

You also need a Social Security number and a clean criminal record. Some programs require you to pass a reading and math test. Getting these basics done first saves time later.

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How Many Hours of Training Do You Need?

Illinois requires 6,000 hours of on-the-job training as an apprentice. This takes about three years working full-time. You also need 576 hours of classroom training in roofing skills and safety.

The classroom work covers topics like how to install different roof types, safety rules, and how to read blueprints. 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 means more training spots are becoming available.

What Exams Must You Pass?

After completing your hours, you take a written exam. The test covers roofing materials, installation methods, and safety rules. It is given by the Illinois Department of Labor.

You must score at least 70% to pass. The exam has about 100 questions and takes about four hours. You can study using free guides from the state website or buy study books online.

What Are the Next Steps?

Once you pass the exam, you apply for your license through the Illinois Department of Labor. You submit your test score, training hours, and application fee, which costs around $200 to $300.

Your license arrives in the mail within two to four weeks. After getting your license, you can work as a roofer for a contractor or start your own roofing business. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 135,140 roofers employed in the United States, with median hourly pay of $26.85. In Illinois, median pay reaches $33.71 per hour, making it one of the highest-paying states in the country.

Step	Time Required	Cost
Apprenticeship (on-the-job)	6,000 hours (3 years)	Free or low cost
Classroom training	576 hours	$1,000 to $3,000
Written exam	4 hours	$50 to $100
License application	2 to 4 weeks	$200 to $300

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Contact a qualified roofing services for expert guidance on roof repair, replacement, or installation.