TherapyJobsUS

Therapy License in Illinois

Step-by-step licensing requirements for PT, OT, SLP, BCBA and mental health therapists.

Interstate Compact Member

Illinois participates in the following interstate licensure compacts:

If you're already licensed in another compact state, you may qualify for a compact privilege instead of a full Illinois license.

Licensing by Specialty

Licensing Board
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — PT Division
Processing Time
6-10 weeks
Initial Fee
$200
Renewal Fee
$150 (Biennial)
CEU Hours
30 hours per renewal
Compact Member
Yes (PTLC)

Requirements

  • DPT or equivalent
  • Pass NPTE
  • Background check

Important Notes

PTLC member. IDFPR processes most applications online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a PT, OT, or SLP license in Illinois?

Processing times in Illinois typically run: Physical Therapy: 6-10 weeks; Occupational Therapy: 6-10 weeks; Speech-Language: 6-10 weeks. Times vary based on background-check turnaround and application completeness.

Does Illinois participate in the PT, OT, or SLP licensure compact?

Yes — Illinois is a member of: Physical Therapy Licensure Compact (PTLC), Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OT Compact), Interstate Compact for Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (ICASLP). Therapists already licensed in another compact state may apply for a compact privilege rather than a full Illinois license.

Can I use my license from another state in Illinois?

If you hold an active license in a compact-member state and your specialty's compact (Physical Therapy Licensure Compact (PTLC), Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OT Compact), Interstate Compact for Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (ICASLP)) covers Illinois, you can apply for a compact privilege to practice without a full Illinois license. Otherwise, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement.

Browse therapy jobs in Illinois

Updated daily — PT, OT, SLP, ABA & mental health roles.

See Open Positions →