Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

$600 -- $2000 6–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Chicago / Cook County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Chicago Business License — Massage Establishment

The City of Chicago requires massage establishments to obtain a business license through the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). A Massage Establishment License is required for any location where massage services are provided for compensation. The license requires proof that all therapists are state-licensed, passing a premise inspection, and an application disclosing all owners/managers.

$250–$500/year (biennial license, fees vary)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Chicago Zoning Compliance

Massage establishments must be located in zones that permit personal service businesses (B, C, or M zoning districts typically). Check with the Chicago Department of Buildings before signing a lease. A Certificate of Occupancy is required for new commercial tenants.

$200–$400 (Certificate of Occupancy)2–4 weeks
Official government source

Illinois State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Illinois Massage License (IDFPR)

Illinois requires all massage therapists to be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Requirements include 500 hours of education from an approved school, passing the MBLEx exam, and a background check. Licenses expire on November 30 of odd-numbered years.

$50 (application fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Illinois Business Registration (Secretary of State)

LLCs and corporations must register with the Illinois Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name must file a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) with the Cook County Clerk.

$150 (LLC) or $25 (DBA)1–4 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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