Landscape Architect / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Landscape Architect License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Plans and designs outdoor spaces including parks and gardens.

What the Illinois data shows for Landscape Architects

To practice as a landscape architect in Illinois, the state licensing board requires board-approved training, a passing score on the LARE (Landscape Architect Registration Exam) examination, and 2 years of supervised work experience. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Illinois's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Bachelors or Masters Degree in Landscape Architecture".

Upfront cost is $374, with renewal running $282 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards reciprocity. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors or Masters Degree in Landscape Architecture
Not specified
Exam Requirement
LARE (Landscape Architect Registration Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$374
Renewal Fee
$282
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Not Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

License Reciprocity

Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards reciprocity

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 Landscape Architect in Illinois?
Illinois requires, passing an exam (LARE (Landscape Architect Registration Exam)), and an initial fee of $374.
How do I get certified as a Landscape Architect in Illinois?
To become a licensed landscape architect in Illinois, you must meet the state's requirements and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Illinois licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Landscape Architect license to Illinois from another state?
Illinois has reciprocity provisions: Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards reciprocity. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Illinois licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Illinois require a background check for Landscape Architect licensing?
Illinois does not currently require a criminal background check for landscape architect licensing, though this may vary by employer or specific role.
What are the continuing education requirements for Landscape Architect in Illinois?
Licensed landscape architects in Illinois must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $282.

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

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