Athletic Trainer / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Athletic Trainer License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Prevents and treats injuries for athletes. Requires BOC examination.

What the Illinois data shows for Athletic Trainers

Illinois sets the entry bar for athletic trainers at 3,419 training hours and a passing score on BOC Examination. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Illinois's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree".

Budget $234 to get started, plus $188 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 50 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For athletic trainers, the reciprocity picture is: Athletic Training Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree
3,419 hours
Exam Requirement
BOC Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$234
Renewal Fee
$188
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
50 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Athletic Trainer in Illinois?
Illinois requires 3419 education/training hours, passing an exam (BOC Examination), and an initial fee of $234. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Athletic Trainer in Illinois?
Illinois licenses athletic trainers who complete its requirements (3419 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Illinois licensing board.
Can I transfer my Athletic Trainer license to Illinois from another state?
Reciprocity for athletic trainers nationally works like this: Athletic Training Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Illinois. Verify the specifics with the Illinois licensing board.
Does Illinois require a background check for Athletic Trainer licensing?
Background screening is part of the athletic trainer licensing process in Illinois. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Athletic Trainer in Illinois?
To stay licensed as an athletic trainer in Illinois, plan on 50 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $188.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites