Psychologist / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Psychologist License Requirements

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

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

What the Illinois data shows for Psychologists

To practice as a psychologist in Illinois, the state licensing board requires 6,838 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology) examination, and 2 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Illinois's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)".

Upfront cost is $468, with renewal running $376 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 40 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions. 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
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

License Reciprocity

PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions

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 requires 6838 education/training hours, passing an exam (EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology)), and an initial fee of $468. A criminal background check is also required.
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?
Illinois has reciprocity provisions: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions. 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 Psychologist licensing?
Yes, Illinois requires a criminal background check as part of the psychologist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
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

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