This page provides the licensure requirements to obtain a paraprofessional educator license or a short-term paraprofessional approval in Illinois.

Endorsement Requirements

At least 19 years of age to serve students in prekindergarten through grade 12.
Beginning January 1, 2023, you may qualify for the ELS-Paraprofessional license by meeting the requirements outlined below at age 18 but only may serve in prekindergarten through grade 8.
One of the following required:

Must work under the direct supervision of a licensed teacher

May be renewed with payment of registration fees

Notes:

If you hold a Paraprofessional License and have a Bachelor’s Degree on file, you are qualified to be a substitute teacher.
Coursework must be at the 100-level or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.

Short-Term Approval Requirements

Approval Type	Requirements
Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessionals Valid: 3 fiscal years Renewable: No *Short-Term Paraprofessional Approvals are available for application until June 30, 2025, and may not be renewed.	High school diploma (or equivalent), or higher At least 19 years of age to serve students in prekindergarten through grade 12. While working on the approval, educator must be fulfilling requirements for the full license.

Approval Type

Requirements

Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessionals

Valid: 3 fiscal years

Renewable: No

*Short-Term Paraprofessional Approvals are available for application until June 30, 2025, and may not be renewed.

High school diploma (or equivalent), or higher
At least 19 years of age to serve students in prekindergarten through grade 12.
While working on the approval, educator must be fulfilling requirements for the full license.