Psychologist / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Psychologist License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Diagnoses and treats mental and behavioral disorders. Requires doctoral degree.

What the Illinois data shows for Psychologists

Becoming a licensed psychologist in Illinois means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 6,838 training hours, a passing score on EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology), and 2 years of supervised work experience, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Illinois regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)".

The initial price tag is $468, and renewal costs $376 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 40 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)
6,838 hours
Exam Requirement
EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology)
Required
Initial License Fee
$468
Renewal Fee
$376
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
40 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 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 Psychologist in Illinois?
Illinois's requirements cover 6838 hours of education or training, the EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology) exam, and an initial fee of $468. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Psychologist in Illinois?
To become a licensed psychologist in Illinois, you must meet the state's requirements including 6838 hours of education 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 Psychologist license to Illinois from another state?
Reciprocity for psychologists nationally works like this: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions. 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 Psychologist licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for psychologist licensing in Illinois. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Psychologist in Illinois?
Licensed psychologists in Illinois must complete 40 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $376.

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