Illinois
Illinois requires mandatory state licensure for behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts. Applicants must provide evidence of current/active BCBA certification, official transcripts, and pass fingerprint background check (ISP and FBI). Applications submitted through CORE online system. Endorsement pathway available for out-of-state licensees.
Quick Reference
Licensing Board
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) - Behavior Analyst Licensing and Disciplinary Board
License Verification
Online verification available
BACB Certification
BACB certification required
Available License Types
Detailed Requirements
Must provide official transcripts or Certification of Education (ED) forms documenting BCBA-approved education experience as required by Illinois Administrative Code 68 IAC Section 1376.15.
Supervised experience as required by BACB certification standards.
Must pass the BACB certification examination. No additional state exam required.
Biennial renewal by October 31 of odd years. First renewal period may be less than 2 years. Beginning 2027 renewal: LBA requires 30 hours CE, LABA requires 20 hours CE during preceding 24 months. First renewal has no CE requirement.
Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) Application: $400. Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst (LABA) Application: $100. Fingerprint processing fees additional.
BCBA or BCaBA certification from BACB is required for state licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of current/active BACB certification. Certification verification required with application.
Fingerprint-based background check required (Illinois State Police and FBI databases). Business owners providing ABA services must ensure all staff are licensed by January 15, 2027 or divest from the business. Applications processed through IDFPR's CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment) online system. Endorsement pathway available for those licensed in other states (requires Certification of Licensure from other jurisdiction). Behavior Analyst Licensing Act signed into law in 2022, licensing commenced January 2025.
Licensing commenced January 15, 2025. IDFPR did not begin enforcement until April 21, 2025 (grace period). CORE online licensing system launched for behavior analyst applications in January 2025. CE requirements begin with 2027 renewal cycle.
Additional Information
Illinois is one of the newest states to implement mandatory behavior analyst licensure (commenced January 2025, law signed 2022). Unique business ownership requirement: non-licensed owners of ABA businesses must divest by January 2027. First renewal has no CE requirement - CE requirements phase in with 2027 renewal cycle. Applications through new CORE online system.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference purposes. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) - Behavior Analyst Licensing and Disciplinary Board. Last updated: Jan 19, 2026.