LicenseCompass

MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST License in Illinois

Quick Answer

To become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois, you need a graduate degree and must pass the national MFT exam. Expedited processing and temporary licenses are available for military members and spouses.

Exam
AMFTRB National MFT Exam
Timeline
4-6 years (master's degree + supervised experience)
Background Check
Required

Requirements

MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST license in Illinois

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Expedited processing is available for military and spouses, with a temporary license available in the interim

Licensing Agency

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation

MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST Salary in Illinois

Entry Level

$50,210

Median

$60,140

Experienced

$102,850

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST in Illinois.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — AMFTRB National MFT Exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-6 years (master's degree + supervised experience).

MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST Licensing in Illinois: What to Know

Licensed through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Degree required, third-party exam required, CE required. Veterans: Expedited processing and temporary license available for military and spouses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST license in Illinois?
The process typically takes 4-6 years (master's degree + supervised experience), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST license in Illinois?
You need to pass the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.