Illinois Mold Remediation Training & Registration FAQs
Illinois has updated its Mold Remediation Registration Act (410 ILCS 105) to establish new registration requirements for individuals and businesses providing mold remediation services in Illinois.
We know contractors have many questions about what the new law means, when registration will begin, and what training or certification may be required. Below are answers to some of the questions we are receiving most often.
Important: The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has proposed rules to implement the new registration program. According to IDPH, the new registration requirements are not yet in effect and mold remediation professionals are not currently required to register with IDPH. Registration will begin after the pending rules are formally adopted.
Is mold remediation now regulated in Illinois?
Illinois has amended the Mold Remediation Registration Act to require parties providing mold remediation services to register with the State and provide evidence of an active third-party certification and financial responsibility.
However, IDPH must first complete its rulemaking process before the new registration requirements take effect.
Do I need to register with IDPH right now?
No.
IDPH currently states that mold remediation professionals are not required to register with IDPH until the pending rules are adopted.
IDPH is developing registration materials that will become available after the rules are adopted.
When will the new Illinois mold remediation requirements take effect?
A specific effective date for registration has not yet been announced.
IDPH published proposed rules for the Mold Remediation Registration Code, 77 Ill. Adm. Code 835, on October 17, 2025. The rules are currently going through the State's rulemaking process.
IDPH has stated that it is unable to predict how long the rulemaking process will take.
Who will be required to register?
The Act applies to parties providing mold remediation services in Illinois.
The Act defines mold remediation as the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment of mold or mold-contaminated material in buildings, including certain preventative activities.
The proposed rules provide additional definitions and requirements that will determine who must register once the program becomes effective.
Will I need a mold certification?
Under the amended Act, applicants for registration will be required to provide evidence of an active third-party mold remediation certification.
The Act defines third-party certification as certification offered by:
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The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), or its successor
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The National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors (NORMI), or its successor
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Another national nonprofit organization approved by IDPH
Final requirements will depend on the rules ultimately adopted by IDPH.
Does taking a mold course automatically make me registered with the State of Illinois?
No.
Completing training is not the same as obtaining Illinois registration.
Once the registration program becomes effective, contractors will need to satisfy the requirements established by IDPH, which are expected to include an approved third-party certification, financial responsibility requirements, an application, and other requirements contained in the final rules.
Is an OTS mold training certificate the same as the third-party certification required by Illinois?
No.
OTS provides mold-related education and training, but an OTS course completion certificate should not be confused with the third-party certification referenced in the Illinois Mold Remediation Registration Act.
Contractors should carefully review the certification requirements established by IDPH before selecting a certification program.
Can OTS help me prepare for the new requirements?
Yes. OTS can provide mold-related training to help contractors and workers understand mold remediation practices, worker protection, containment, cleaning methods, PPE, and other relevant topics.
However, training provided by OTS does not replace any third-party certification or State registration that may be required under the final IDPH rules.
What third-party certifications does IDPH currently identify?
IDPH currently provides information regarding third-party mold remediation certifications from organizations including:
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IICRC
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NORMI
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ACAC
The specific certification needed for Illinois registration should be confirmed against the final IDPH rules once they are adopted.
Will companies need insurance or proof of financial responsibility?
Yes. The amended Act requires parties registering with the State to provide evidence of financial responsibility.
Specific requirements should be confirmed once IDPH's final rules are adopted.
Are there any exemptions?
The Act contains an exemption for certain home builders and remodelers performing work on residential structures consisting of four or fewer residential units when the work is performed under the period and terms of the written warranty for that residential structure.
Other circumstances may be addressed by the final rules. Contractors should review the applicable law and final IDPH regulations to determine whether an exemption applies to their specific situation.
Does Illinois require mold inspectors or mold assessors to register?
The current Mold Remediation Registration Act specifically establishes requirements for parties providing mold remediation services.
Contractors should not assume that requirements applicable to mold remediation contractors automatically apply to mold inspectors or assessors. Final requirements should be verified with IDPH.
Where can I find official updates?
Because the regulations are still being finalized, requirements may change.
For the most current information, please refer directly to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois Mold Remediation Registration Act, 410 ILCS 105.
OTS will continue monitoring the implementation of the Illinois Mold Remediation Registration Code and will update our training information as additional guidance becomes available.
Still Have Questions About Training?
Occupational Training & Supply, Inc. (OTS) offers environmental and safety training for contractors, supervisors, and workers.
Contact OTS for information about available mold-related training and upcoming classes.
Please note: OTS cannot provide legal advice or determine whether a particular individual or company is required to register. Questions regarding State registration, certification eligibility, or interpretation of the Illinois Mold Remediation Registration Act should be directed to IDPH.