Getting an Illinois roofing license comes down to six steps: choose your license type, prepare for the exam, pass it, line up insurance and a bond, file with IDFPR, and get to work. A prepared applicant can move from studying to a submitted application in a matter of weeks. Here is each step.
The 6 Steps to Get Licensed
- Choose your license type. Residential covers homes of 8 units or fewer. Unlimited covers residential, commercial, and industrial. The exam fee is the same, so most contractors go Unlimited. See the two types.
- Prepare for the exam. This is the step that decides how fast and how affordably you get licensed. Focused prep that teaches to the test beats months of unfocused reading. This is where we come in.
- Pass the state exam. Sit the Continental Testing exam and clear 70%. Residential is 80 questions in 90 minutes; Unlimited is 130 questions in 150 minutes. The fee is $248.
- Line up insurance and your bond. Carry general liability and workers’ compensation, and post your surety bond ($10,000 Residential or $25,000 Unlimited).
- File your application with IDFPR. Submit the application with the $125 fee and your qualifying party. We guide you through this so nothing gets missed.
- Get licensed and start bidding. Once issued, you are cleared to contract legally across Illinois. Renew every two years ($62.50 per year).
The exam is what stands between you and your license. Get exam-ready with us and pass the first time.
Register For A Class →How Long Does It Take?
It depends on exam scheduling and IDFPR processing, but a prepared applicant can go from studying to a submitted application in a few weeks. The biggest variable is how many times you sit the exam, which is exactly why first-try prep pays off. For the full detail on every step, see our complete license guide and cost breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do?
Decide whether you need the Residential or Unlimited license, then start exam prep. Most contractors go Unlimited because it costs the same to test and covers every roof.
How long does it take to get licensed?
With good prep, many contractors go from studying to a submitted application in a matter of weeks. Exam scheduling and IDFPR processing set the exact timeline.
What does it cost?
About $383 in direct fees ($125 application, $248 exam, and mailing), plus insurance, a bond, and $62.50 per year to renew. See the full cost breakdown for details.
Do you do the paperwork for me?
We do not file it for you, but we guide you through every step, the exam registration, insurance, bond, and IDFPR application, so you always know exactly what to do. Call (773) 635-0099.
The Bottom Line
Six steps stand between you and your Illinois roofing license, and the exam is the one that decides your timeline and your cost. Prepare well, pass the first time, and the rest is straightforward. We tell you what to study and guide you through the process, in person or by Live Zoom.
Next: the roofing exam guide, the full license guide, or upcoming classes.
Get Your Roofing License the First Time
In-person and Live Zoom prep since 2010. We tell you what to study and guide you through the process.