Illinois Electrician License: Requirements, Exam & How to Get Licensed
Everything you need to know about the Illinois electrician license — requirements, exam format, fees, and how to prepare
Note: Our practice questions are based on NEC 2023 — the edition most states currently test on. The exam format details below are specific to Illinois.
Information last verified: April 2026
Last verified: March 26, 2026 • Sources: Illinois Licensing Board
Exam Format
Journeyman Electrician
- Vendor:Continental Testing Services
- Questions:150
- Time Limit:240 minutes (4 hours)
- Passing Score:70%
- Exam Fee:$150
- Format:Open-book (NEC reference allowed)
What's Covered on the Exam
- Grounding & Bonding (NEC Article 250)
- Wiring Methods (Conduit, Cable, Raceways)
- Load Calculations (Article 220)
- Motors & Controllers (Article 430)
- Box Fill & Conduit Fill
- Overcurrent Protection (Article 240)
- Special Occupancies (Hazardous Locations)
- Services & Feeders (Article 230)
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Detailed Explanations
Every question includes step-by-step solutions with NEC article references
How to Register for Your Exam
- Confirm Your Eligibility: Check with the City of Chicago Department of Buildings (no statewide board) for current requirements (work experience, education, etc.)
- Submit Your Application: Apply through the state licensing board
- Schedule Your Exam: Once approved, register with Continental Testing Services
- Prepare: Use GetLicenseReady to practice with Illinois-aligned questions
- Pass Your Exam: Show up confident and ready on exam day
Official Resources
Illinois Electrician Exam Tips
State-specific guidance to help you prepare smarter for your Illinois exam.
💡What You Need to Know About Illinois
- Illinois does NOT have a statewide journeyman electrician license — the Chicago area has its own licensing system, and other municipalities regulate independently.
- The City of Chicago issues an Electrical Licensing through the Department of Buildings; the exam covers Chicago Electrical Code, which has significant local differences from standard NEC.
- Outside Chicago, some Illinois municipalities have licensing requirements while others do not — always check with the local building department.
- Illinois requires a separate license for fire alarm work, HVAC control wiring, and low-voltage systems in many jurisdictions.
NEC Adoption & State Amendments
Illinois does not adopt a single statewide electrical code. Chicago uses the Chicago Electrical Code, which is based on NEC but includes extensive local amendments. Other Illinois municipalities may adopt the NEC with local modifications. Check with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for the code edition and amendments applicable to your area.
⚠️Common Mistakes on the Illinois Exam
- Studying standard NEC for a Chicago exam — the Chicago Electrical Code differs substantially from NFPA 70, including different conduit requirements (metallic conduit is required for most wiring in Chicago).
- Assuming an electrical license from one Illinois city is valid in Chicago or other municipalities — reciprocity is very limited.
- Not checking whether your specific scope of work (residential, commercial, low-voltage) requires a separate license in your jurisdiction.
Compare Exam Requirements
See how Illinois's electrician exam compares to other popular states:
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