Yes, you can get an Illinois roofing license even with a felony record. According to the Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act, there are no felonies that automatically disqualify you. The IDFPR reserves the right to disqualify any candidate after a background check.
However, some felonies decrease your licensing chances. In this guide, we'll answer all your searing questions about backgrounds, license disqualifications, and criminal records.
According to the IDFPR, 95% of qualified individuals with a criminal record get their license. The IDFPR encourages people to apply for the license and undergo the vetting process. The Department of Professional Regulation states that:
"There are no convictions which would result in an automatic bar to obtaining a roofing contractor (qualifying party) license." - IDFPR Documentation (2020).
Every qualified individual deserves a chance at their life. Contact us if you have a record and are worried about your licensing prospects.
The IDFPR considers the following crimes while processing your application:
These crimes will not bar you from becoming a license holder. However, you must include these in your application. Failing to do so can lead to punitive action from the IDFPR.
According to the IDFPR, the following convictions do not affect your licensing prospects:
You do not need to mention these violations or misdemeanors on your licensing application. Furthermore, you do not have to disclose any convictions that have been expunged, sealed, vacated, or reversed by the court.
Note: You cannot hide a record, so please be upfront on your application.
Getting a roofing license in Illinois is difficult, especially when you have a record. Here are 3 things you should definitely do before submitting your application for a license:
You are compelled by law to disclose previous felonies on your application. Failing to disclose your record could lead to a negative review of your application. Entering any false information on your application leads to a disqualification.
Be upfront about your record, irrespective of its severity. The IDFPR will find out one way or another, so you can't hide anything.
You do not have to disclose any felonies that were expunged, sealed, or vacated. Here's how you expunge your felony record:
The court will expunge your record if all the requirements are met. Certain criminal records, such as DUIs, cannot be erased. However, you can have those records sealed through a similar process.
You cannot expunge your record if you have been convicted of a crime recently. Furthermore, the success of the expungement application depends on your behavior.
The IDFPR evaluates an applicant holistically. They consider your record and professional qualifications. Focus on your duty and the skills you need to fulfill said duties.
Here's what you should do:
Remember, the IDFPR is looking for competent, trustworthy professionals. Your skills, experience, and character growth matter more than past mistakes. The IDFPR will not deny you an opportunity as long as you're willing to turn over a new leaf.
Committing a personal, business, or criminal offense can lead to disciplinary action. The IDFPR can suspend or revoke your license while placing hefty fines. The legal action depends on the severity of the crime and its connection to your professional abilities.
For example, unlicensed roofing work is considered a felony in Illinois. Other violations that can jeopardize your license include:
SB 2503 increased penalties and fines for license holders. If you do face legal troubles after obtaining your professional license, consult with an attorney immediately and notify the IDFPR as required.
Expunging or sealing a record costs $200 to $300 in Illinois. This cost includes application, postage, mailing, and copy fees. Depending on the severity of the crime, you might also need to hire a legal party to petition on your behalf.
The record expungement process in Illinois typically takes between 4 and 6 months. The timeline depends on the court’s schedule, the completeness of your application, and whether the state objects to the request. Some counties process cases faster, while backlogged courts take longer.
Illinois employers cannot ask about felony convictions on a job application under the Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act. Employers may only inquire after an interview or a conditional job offer. This law helps prevent discrimination and gives applicants with records a fair chance at employment.
The roofing license board does not bar you from a roofing license automatically. There are no crimes that automatically disqualify you. However, having a felony record does increase your chances of disqualification.
You can increase your chances of success by being upfront on your application, providing evidence of good behavior, and expunging previous records (if applicable). Administrative bodies judge you based on your potential and intent of reformation.
Please do your best and focus on your skills. Contact the Illinois Roofing Institute if you have a felony record and want to turn over a new leaf. We've helped 3000+ roofers in Illinois achieve their dreams of success.
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