Before you can apply for a plumbing license in Illinois, you must first establish your eligibility. The following are the key requirements:

  • Education: A solid educational foundation is crucial for any aspiring plumber. In Illinois, you must have either graduated from high school or completed an equivalent course of study. If you did not graduate from high school, you must submit documented evidence of completion of a two-year course of study in a high school or an equivalent course of study.
  • Apprenticeship: Practical experience is just as important as theoretical knowledge. In Illinois, you need to have been employed as an Illinois licensed apprentice plumber under supervision in accordance with the Illinois Plumbing License Law for at least four years preceding the date of your application. This apprenticeship period allows you to gain hands-on experience and learn the trade from experienced professionals.
  • Examination: Finally, you must pass the Illinois plumbing license examination. This examination tests your knowledge and understanding of plumbing practices and the Illinois Plumbing License Law. The application for the examination must be submitted 30 days prior to the date of the examination.

Applying for a Plumbing License in Illinois

Once you’ve established your eligibility, you can proceed to apply for a plumbing license. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

  • Complete the Application: The first step is to fill out the Application for Examination for Plumber’s License. This application requires you to provide personal information, details about your education and apprenticeship, and other relevant details. It’s important to fill out the application legibly or type to ensure that your information is accurately captured.
  • Submit the Application: After filling out the application, you need to send it to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Plumbing Program, 525 W. Jefferson St., 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62761. This is the official address for submitting plumbing license applications in Illinois.
  • Pay the Application Fee: Along with your application, you must also submit the application fee. The application fee for Illinois Licensed Apprentice Plumber is $175. The application fee for Plumbers Registered or Licensed in Chicago or Outside the State of Illinois is $225. The returned check fee is $100. It’s important to note that you should not send cash. Instead, attach a check or money order for the application fee.

Renewing a Plumbing License in Illinois

In Illinois, plumbing licenses are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. Here’s how to renew your plumbing license:

  • Complete the Renewal Application: To renew your plumbing license, you must complete the Plumbing Contractor Application for Registration or Renewal. This application requires you to provide details about your business, your insurance coverage, and other relevant information.
  • Submit the Renewal Application: After completing the renewal application, you need to send it to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Plumbing Program, 525 W. Jefferson St., 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62761. This is the same address used for initial license applications.
  • Pay the Renewal Fee: Along with your renewal application, you must also submit the renewal fee. The annual registration fee is $150. The reinstatement/late fee is $100, and the returned check fee is $200.

Plumber License Reciprocity in Illinois

In the world of plumbing, license reciprocity refers to the agreement between states that allows a licensed plumber from one state to practice in another without having to go through the entire licensing process again. However, it’s important to note that not all states have reciprocity agreements with each other.

For Illinois, the state does not have a general reciprocity agreement with other states for plumbing licenses. This means that if you are a licensed plumber in another state and you wish to practice in Illinois, you will need to go through the Illinois licensing process. This includes passing the Illinois state plumbing exam and meeting all other requirements for licensure in the state.

License Bond Requirements in Illinois

In Illinois, plumbers are required to post a contractor license bond before they can be licensed to work in the state. This bond is a type of surety bond that protects your clients by providing a form of financial compensation in case you fail to fulfill your contractual obligations.

The bond amount for plumbing contractors in Illinois is $20,000. This bond must be maintained for the duration of your license period. If you fail to maintain this bond, your license may be suspended or revoked by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Insurance Needs for Plumbers in Illinois

Insurance is a crucial aspect of running a successful plumbing business in Illinois. It protects your business from potential financial losses due to accidents, damages, or lawsuits. Here are the main types of insurance that plumbers in Illinois should consider:

  • General Liability Insurance: This insurance covers claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury. It’s essential for protecting your business from the financial impact of lawsuits and other liabilities.
  • Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as errors and omissions insurance, this policy covers claims of professional negligence, errors, or failure to deliver a service on time.
  • Commercial Auto Insurance: If you use vehicles for business purposes, such as driving to job sites, commercial auto insurance is a must. It covers accident-related expenses resulting from injuries, death, or property damage.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, most states, including Illinois, require you to have workers’ compensation insurance. This policy covers the medical expenses of employees who are injured or get sick while at work.
  • Tools and Equipment Insurance: This insurance covers the cost to repair or replace equipment that is damaged or stolen.
  • Product Liability Insurance: If you install a product that later proves to be defective and causes damage, this insurance would cover the cost to repair the damage, as well as legal and settlement costs.

Remember, the specific insurance needs for your plumbing business may vary depending on the nature of your work, the size of your business, and the level of risk. It’s always a good idea to consult with an insurance professional to ensure you have the right coverage for your business. Learn more about the intricacies of your state’s requirements by checking out this informative article on Illinois plumbing insurance cost.

Please note that this guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with the Illinois Department of Public Health for the most current information.