ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC License in Illinois
Quick Answer
To become a CPA (Public Accountant) in Illinois, you must earn a degree and pass the Uniform CPA Exam. The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees licensing. Chicago is a major accounting market. Estimated total costs are approximately $2,175.
- Exam
- Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)
- Total Cost
- $2,175 (est.)
- Timeline
- 5-7 years (including degree)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 3 years
Requirements
ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC license in Illinois
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $100
- Exam Fee
- $1,000
- Renewal Fee
- $75
- Total Estimated Cost
- $2,175
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC license in Illinois. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Illinois licensing board.
ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC Salary in Illinois
Entry Level
$51,690
Median
$79,300
Experienced
$132,080
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC in Illinois.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 5-7 years (including degree).
ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC Licensing in Illinois: What to Know
Illinois titles this license 'Public Accountant' in the COS data. A degree is required and the Uniform CPA Exam must be passed. Persons are deemed in public accountant practice when they sign, affix, or associate their names to any report expressing opinions on financial statements based on audits. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees licensing. Chicago is one of the largest accounting markets in the US, home to major public accounting firms and corporate headquarters.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC license cost in Illinois?
- The estimated total cost is $2,175, including application fees, exam fees ($1,000), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC license in Illinois?
- The process typically takes 5-7 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC license in Illinois?
- You need to pass the Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.