Illinois grants full reciprocity for out-of-state educators. During the initial evaluation for an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL), all endorsement areas listed on a valid and comparable out-of-state license will be considered. In accordance with Part 25 Rules, out-of-state licenses must be deemed equivalent to the Illinois PEL. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has the authority to determine license equivalency and may request additional documentation to verify equivalency.
Educators applying with credentials from outside the United States must also submit a credential evaluation reflecting the U.S. equivalency of degrees and semester hours earned that verifies preparation in the licensure area being sought. Visit the
International Resources section of our website to learn more.
Effective January 1, 2026, Illinois will continue to offer reciprocity for all endorsements listed on a valid, comparable out-of-state license; however, ALL applicants must also successfully pass the applicable Illinois content area test(s) to qualify. (Register here:
ILTS.) Content test scores must be submitted directly from ILTS/Pearson to be accepted.
To serve as a teacher, school support personnel, or administrator in the state of Illinois—whether in public schools or approved non-public programs—individuals must obtain a Professional Educator License (PEL). The PEL must include an endorsement in one of the designated licensure areas.
