CHICAGO – A move to a new duty station or the transition out of active duty can mean applying for a new professional license before starting work. During National Veterans and Military Families Month, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) is reminding service members, veterans, and military spouses that support is available. The Department’s Military Liaison offers one-on-one guidance, and qualifying applicants can receive an expedited initial review.
“During National Veterans and Military Families Month, we recognize the dedication of those who serve our country and the sacrifices their families make alongside them,” said IDFPR Secretary Mario Treto, Jr. “We have a responsibility to honor that service through the work we do. Whether a veteran is beginning a civilian career or a military spouse is continuing a profession after a move, IDFPR is committed to providing the support and licensing assistance they need to put their skills to work in Illinois.”
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IDFPR’s Military Liaison works with applicants and their installation’s Military and Family Support Center to answer questions and guide applicants through the licensing process. Active- duty service members, veterans who left active duty within the past two years, and their spouses may qualify for expedited initial review. IDFPR completes that review within 30 days of receiving all required documents and fees for a qualifying application.
“As a veteran and a member of the General Assembly, I know how much it matters to have someone you can call when you’re moving to a new state or preparing for civilian life,” said state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit (D-Aurora). “I’m grateful to IDFPR for giving service members, veterans, and military spouses a person they can turn to for help with professional licensing. If you’re planning your next career step in Illinois, I encourage you to reach out to IDFPR’s Military Liaison early and find out what support is available to you.”
The Military Liaison assisted 1,325 applicants in 2025, up from 390 in the program’s first year in 2020.
“Veterans bring years of experience to Illinois employers and communities,” said state Sen. Craig Wilcox (R-McHenry). “For those pursuing a career that requires a professional license, knowing where to start can make a real difference. I appreciate IDFPR’s effort to give veterans a person they can turn to for help with the application process.”
IDFPR also offers a military portability pathway with streamlined application requirements for eligible active-duty service members stationed in Illinois and their spouses who hold an active professional license from another state. A license issued through this pathway remains valid through its expiration date while the service member is on active duty and stationed in Illinois. Renewal is available if the service member continues to meet those conditions. Visit IDFPR’s Military Portability page for eligibility and application details.
Service members, veterans, and spouses can find application guidance on IDFPR’s military licensing resources page or contact the Military Liaison at FPR.MilitaryLicense@illinois.gov.
