Step-by-Step: How to Get a Illinois Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Primary Source Verification
2–4 weeksFCVS not required; IDFPR conducts primary source verification. The board conducts primary source verification of your medical education, residency, and fellowship training directly.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
1–3 weeksComplete the required background check: Illinois State Police + FBI fingerprint. Schedule fingerprinting at an authorized location and submit results to the board.
Submit Supporting Documents
1–2 weeksProvide verification of training (residency, fellowship), board certification, malpractice history, peer references, and any required CME documentation.
Board Review & Approval
8–14 weeksThe Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation reviews your complete application. Processing time varies based on application volume and completeness of your file.
DEA Registration
2–4 weeksApply for DEA registration in the new state if you will be prescribing controlled substances. DEA registration is separate from state licensure.
Total estimated time: 8–14 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Illinois Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Illinois in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Illinois is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Illinois license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 8–14 weeks traditional process.
IMLC Eligibility Requirements:
- • State of principal licensure must be an IMLC member
- • No disciplinary orders on any state license
- • Board certified (or meeting IMLC GME standards)
- • No criminal history preventing licensure
Illinois Medical License Fee Structure
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $200–$600 (varies by state) |
| Fingerprint Processing | $25–$75 |
| DEA Registration | $888 (3 years) |
| FCVS Profile (if required) | $375 initial |
Fees subject to change. Verify current fees at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website.
How Locums One Handles Illinois Licensing
For every physician we place in Illinois, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Illinois Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
Illinois is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get Illinois + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — Illinois Medical License
How long does it take to get a Illinois medical license?
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation typically processes applications in 8–14 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a Illinois license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Illinois in the IMLC compact?
Illinois is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Illinois license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 8–14 weeks traditional process.
Does Illinois require FCVS for medical licensure?
FCVS not required; IDFPR conducts primary source verification. While FCVS is not required, it can expedite the verification process.
What background check does Illinois require for medical licensure?
Illinois requires: Illinois State Police + FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Can Locums One handle my Illinois medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Illinois medical board applications, FCVS coordination, fingerprinting scheduling, and DEA registration. Our average credentialing time is 21 days (industry average: 60–90 days).
Do I need a separate DEA registration for Illinois?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Illinois, you need a Illinois DEA registration in addition to your state medical license. DEA registration takes 2–4 weeks and costs $888 for a 3-year registration.
What CME requirements does Illinois have for medical license renewal?
Illinois requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website for current CME requirements. Locums One tracks license expiration dates and prompts renewal 90 days in advance.
Is locum tenens work 1099 or W-2 in Illinois?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Illinois. You receive a 1099-NEC, handle your own quarterly estimated taxes, and access significant business deductions. has state income tax — factor this into your rate negotiations.