Locksmith / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Locksmith License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Installs, repairs, and opens locks. Licensed in ~15 states.

What the Illinois data shows for Locksmiths

Illinois sets the entry bar for locksmiths at board-approved training and a passing score on a state-approved exam. The credential is administered under Illinois's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Experience/Apprenticeship".

The initial price tag is $150 every 2 years. Illinois doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Illinois evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Experience/Apprenticeship
Not specified
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$150
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Not Required

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Compare all states for Locksmith All Illinois licenses
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 Locksmith in Illinois? ▼
Illinois's requirements cover, a state exam, and an initial fee of $150.
How do I get certified as a Locksmith in Illinois? ▼
To become a licensed locksmith in Illinois, you must meet the state's requirements. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Illinois licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Locksmith license to Illinois from another state? ▼
Out-of-state locksmith credentials get a case-by-case review in Illinois rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the Illinois licensing board.
Does Illinois require a background check for Locksmith licensing? ▼
No statewide background-check mandate applies to locksmith licensing in Illinois at this time - individual employers may still run their own screening.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.