How to Apply
To obtain your Marriage & Family Therapist license in Illinois, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Illinois requires all applicants to pass the MFT National Exam before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in IL is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.
Requirements
Illinois has specific requirements for Marriage & Family Therapist licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide therapy to couples and families. A clean background check is mandatory in IL, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The MFT National Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Illinois board.
Fees & Costs
The initial application fee for a Marriage & Family Therapist license in Illinois is approximately $250. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. IL also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Illinois may incur additional penalties of up to $63.
License Fee Calculator — Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Renewal Process
Your Marriage & Family Therapist license in Illinois must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in IL is $150. Illinois requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in IL can result in fines and disciplinary action.
License Expiry Calculator — Marriage & Family Therapist in IL
Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Illinois requires renewal every 2 years.
Additional Information
Working as a Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. IL has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Illinois also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Marriage & Family Therapist professionals.
Document Checklist — Marriage & Family Therapist
0 of 5 documents ready
Frequently Asked Questions
License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Illinois Marriage & Family Therapist License in Other States?
Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.
| Destination State | Reciprocity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska (AK) | None | AK does not recognize IL Marriage & Family Therapist license. Full re-application required. |
| Alabama (AL) | Partial | AL requires additional exam or paperwork for IL license holders. |
| Arizona (AZ) | None | AZ does not recognize IL Marriage & Family Therapist license. Full re-application required. |
| Arkansas (AR) | Full | AR accepts IL Marriage & Family Therapist license via reciprocity agreement. |
| Colorado (CO) | None | CO does not recognize IL Marriage & Family Therapist license. Full re-application required. |
| Delaware (DE) | Full | DE accepts IL Marriage & Family Therapist license via reciprocity agreement. |
| California (CA) | Partial | CA requires additional exam or paperwork for IL license holders. |
| Florida (FL) | Full | FL accepts IL Marriage & Family Therapist license via reciprocity agreement. |
Where to File Locally in Illinois
Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.
Chicago
100 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 814-4500
Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Springfield
320 W Washington St, Springfield, IL 62786
(217) 785-0800
Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Rockford
425 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104
(815) 987-5600
Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Peoria
419 NE Jefferson Ave, Peoria, IL 61603
(309) 671-3000
Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Naperville
400 S Eagle St, Naperville, IL 60540
(630) 420-6111
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official Illinois Resources
Always verify requirements directly with the Illinois state board. Regulations may change.
Illinois Licensing Board
https://idfpr.illinois.gov
Contact Phone
(888) 473-4858
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.
Contact Our TeamDisclaimer
US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.