An Illinois locksmith license runs about $224 in direct fees (a $174 application plus a $50 exam), on top of the cost of your required $1,000,000 general liability insurance and fingerprinting. Here is every requirement and every dollar.
The Requirements Checklist
- Be at least 21 to own a locksmith business, or 18 to work as a licensed employee
- Pass the Illinois locksmith exam (305 questions, 4 hours) through Continental Testing
- Carry $1,000,000 general liability insurance
- Complete fingerprinting (within 60 days of applying) and clear a background check
- Submit your application and fees, at least 60 days before your target exam
Full Cost Table
| Cost item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $174 |
| Exam fee (Continental Testing) | $50 |
| Fingerprinting | Varies by live scan vendor |
| General liability insurance | $1,000,000 coverage (premium varies) |
| Direct application + exam fees | ~$224 |
Verified with IDFPR as of 2026. Insurance premiums vary by business. Confirm current fees before you file.
An Alternative Exam Route
Illinois also accepts a passing ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) exam taken within three years, covering the Mandatory, Code, and Electricity sections. That route carries a higher application fee (around $500), so for most people the standard state exam is the more economical path.
How We Help
- We tell you what to study so you pass the first time and avoid a six-month wait.
- We help you time it around the March and September windows.
- We guide you through the application, insurance, and fingerprinting steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Illinois locksmith license cost?
About $224 in direct fees: a $174 application and a $50 exam. Add fingerprinting and your required $1,000,000 general liability insurance.
What insurance is required?
$1,000,000 in general liability insurance.
How far ahead do I apply?
At least 60 days before your target exam date, and the exam is only offered in March and September.
Can you help me get licensed?
Yes. We prep you for the exam and help you time your application. Call (773) 635-0099 or register for a class.
The Bottom Line
Budget about $224 in direct fees for your Illinois locksmith license, plus insurance and fingerprinting. The fees are small next to what the license earns, and the biggest risk to your timeline is missing an exam window. Prepare and apply early, and we will help you do both.
Next: the full license guide, or the locksmith exam.
Get Licensed and Working
We prep you and help you time the exam. Illinois trade licensing specialists since 2010.