Electrical Contractor Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a electrical contractor in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $900–$2,500 est. 8–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Illinois

2 stops

  1. Illinois Electrical Contractor License (Outside Chicago)

    Illinois requires an electrical contractor license for work outside Chicago. However, Chicago operates under home rule with its own licensing that supersedes the state for work within city limits. Contractors working both inside and outside Chicago need both licenses.

    Official government source

    $50/year (state license)4–8 weeks

  2. Illinois Business Entity Registration (if applicable)

    LLCs and corporations must register with the Illinois Secretary of State.

    $150 (LLC filing fee)3–5 business days

City of Chicago / Cook County

3 stops

  1. City of Chicago Electrical Contractor License

    Chicago requires a separate City of Chicago Electrical Contractor License issued by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). This is distinct from the state license. The qualifying electrician must hold a City of Chicago Master Electrician License. A $10,000 surety bond is required. Apply through the city's online licensing portal.

    Official government source

    $285/year (contractor license) + $10,000 bond (~$100–$200/year premium)2–4 weeks

  2. City of Chicago Master Electrician License

    Chicago has its own Master Electrician exam and license. The qualifying person for an electrical contracting business must hold a Chicago Master Electrician License. Requires 5 years of electrical experience, passing a Chicago-specific exam, and a background check.

    Official government source

    $175/year4–8 weeks (exam scheduling)

  3. Chicago General Business License

    All businesses operating in Chicago must obtain a general business license from BACP in addition to any specialty licenses.

    Official government source

    $250/year1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $900–$2,500 · 8–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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