How to become a home inspector in Illinois
Illinois home inspectors are licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Division of Real Estate. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed home inspector in Illinois, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a home inspector in Illinois?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Complete 60-hour pre-license course and pre-license field course
- Pass the Illinois home inspector exam
- Carry general liability insurance of at least $100,000
Illinois home inspector license requirements
| State license | Yes. Illinois requires a state home inspector license from IDFPR under the Home Inspector License Act (225 ILCS 441). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Division of Real Estate |
| License name | Home Inspector License |
| Education or training | A 60-hour pre-license course plus a pre-license field course (minimum 15 hours) with 5 field inspections and a final field exam, from IDFPR-licensed providers. |
| Exam | Pass the Illinois Home Inspector licensing exam given by PSI; attempts are unlimited. |
| Insurance or bond | Applicants attest they maintain general liability insurance of at least $100,000 (68 IAC 1410.235). |
| License term | Two years; licenses expire November 30 of even-numbered years (next deadline November 30, 2026). |
| Continuing education | 12 hours per renewal, including 8 mandatory hours and Sexual Harassment Prevention Training; licensees first licensed on or after September 1, 2026 need none for the 2026 renewal. |
How much does it cost?
| Application for licensure by examination | $250 |
|---|
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a home inspector in Illinois
- Complete the 60-hour pre-license course
- Complete the pre-license field course and field exam
- Pass the PSI licensing exam
- Obtain $100,000 general liability insurance
- Submit the license-by-examination application with transcripts, score report and $250 fee
- Renew every two years with CE
Apply on the official Illinois site
How do you check a home inspector's license in Illinois?
- Search the name or license number on the official Illinois home inspector license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.