Illinois Contractor License Bonds

To get an Illinois contractor license and bond, roofing contractors must apply to IDFPR with proof of 4 years experience, a $25,000 surety bond (or $10,000 for Limited License), general liability insurance, and fees ($250-$500). For other trades, check with your municipality (Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, etc.) for local licensing requirements. Municipal bonds range $5,000-$25,000. Processing takes 30-60 days. You can purchase your Illinois contractor license bond instantly through our online system while completing licensing requirements.

An Illinois contractor license bond ($10,000-$25,000 requirement for roofing or municipal licenses) costs $100-$625 annually depending on your credit score. With excellent credit (750+), expect $100-$250 (1%). Good credit (680-749) costs $150-$375 (1.5%). Fair credit (620-679) ranges $250-$625 (2.5%).

Illinois does not require a statewide general contractor license or bond. However, roofing contractors must be licensed with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and post a $25,000 surety bond. Additionally, many municipalities require local contractor licenses with bonds.

Illinois requires all roofing contractors to obtain a license from IDFPR and maintain either a $10,000 bond (Limited License - 8 units or less) or $25,000 bond (Unlimited License - no restrictions). This bond protects consumers from contractor fraud, incomplete work, or violations of the Roofing Industry Licensing Act under 225 ILCS 335/3.2. The bond must remain active for the duration of the license.

Illinois contractor bonds typically cost $100 to $500 annually for municipal bonds ($5,000-$25,000), and $250 to $750 annually for the $25,000 roofing contractor bond. Costs represent 1-3% of the bond amount based on credit score and business financials. Contractors with excellent credit often qualify for rates as low as 1%.

Major Illinois cities requiring contractor bonds include Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, Joliet, Naperville, and Springfield. Chicago has extensive contractor licensing requirements with bonds ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 depending on trade and scope. Each municipality sets its own bond requirements and amounts.

Yes, Chicago requires contractor licenses and bonds for most construction activities. General contractors, specialty contractors, and home improvement contractors need licenses with bonds typically ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. The Chicago Department of Buildings oversees contractor licensing and bonding requirements.

Illinois contractor bonds can be issued within 24 hours for applicants with good credit. The application requires basic business information, personal credit authorization, and details about your license or registration. Once approved, bonds are delivered electronically for immediate filing with IDFPR or municipalities.

To qualify, contractors need an active or pending Illinois license (for roofers) or local license, business experience, and acceptable personal credit. Most applicants with credit scores above 650 are approved for standard rates. Even contractors with credit challenges can obtain bonds through specialized surety programs at higher premium rates.

The Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act (225 ILCS 335/) requires all roofing contractors to be licensed by IDFPR, maintain a $25,000 surety bond, and carry liability insurance. The law protects consumers from fraudulent roofing contractors and ensures professional standards in the roofing industry.

Yes, Illinois contractor bonds have annual terms and must be renewed to maintain active licensing status. Roofing contractor bonds must be renewed with the IDFPR license renewal. Renewal premiums may decrease with improved credit scores and clean claims history. Most sureties send renewal notices 30-60 days before expiration.

When a claim is filed, the surety company investigates to verify validity. If the claim is legitimate, the surety compensates the damaged party up to the bond amount. The contractor is then legally obligated to reimburse the surety for all paid claims plus investigation costs. Claims can significantly impact future bonding ability and premium rates.