CompTIA A+ in Illinois
This guide details the steps to become a CompTIA A+ certified professional in Illinois. The process involves meeting prerequisites, completing a background check, preparing for and passing the CompTIA A+ exam, and registering with the state. Total path duration can range from 4 to 20 weeks, with costs varying from $800 to $2,500 depending on study materials and exam fees.
In Illinois, the career as a CompTIA A+ professional holds a promising outlook despite a slight projected decline in job growth nationally. With a median salary of $58,120 per year in the state, the role offers a stable and rewarding path in the technology sector. Although the national forecast suggests a -3.7% growth rate by 2034, Illinois maintains a dynamic market for IT support specialists, driven by continuous technological integrations across various industries. This slight discrepancy between national trends and state-specific opportunities underscores the importance of regional economic factors in shaping job prospects.
Illinois presents a unique environment for CompTIA A+ certified professionals. Unlike some states, Illinois does not impose specific state regulations over and above the standard CompTIA certification requirements, making it straightforward for entrants to start their careers. The state is home to a number of major employers in the technology sector, including tech startups in Chicago's Silicon Prairie and established corporations throughout the suburbs. These employers often seek well-rounded technicians who can manage both hardware and software issues, making CompTIA A+ certification particularly valuable here.
This guide will provide readers with detailed information on how to achieve CompTIA A+ certification specifically in Illinois. Readers will learn about the necessary steps to get certified, including preparation for the exams, registration details, and finding authorized testing centers in the state. The guide will also cover salary expectations based on recent data, insights into the job market, and tips for advancing in an IT career. By the end of this guide, aspiring CompTIA A+ professionals will have a clear understanding of the path forward in this field within the Illinois job market.
Licensing Authority
CompTIA
Illinois does not have specific state-level licensing requirements for CompTIA A+ certification. CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification for IT professionals, managed by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), a non-profit trade association.
Official Resources
Illinois Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- No specific educational requirements
- Total Training Hours
- 0 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 0 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 0 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
Certification Exam
- Exam
- CompTIA A+
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- Approximately $232 per exam part
How to Become a CompTIA A+ in Illinois
tuition $0 (self-study), exam fee $232, background check $50, application fee $0, textbooks/supplies $300-$1000, scrubs $0
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Illinois's Prerequisites for CompTIA A+
Begin by confirming your eligibility for the CompTIA A+ certification. In Illinois, you must have a high school diploma or GED. No specific state approval is needed for CompTIA A+ training, allowing flexibility in choosing study resources. Collect your educational documents as proof. This step involves no cost and can be completed within 1-2 days.
Tip
Ensure your high school diploma or GED certificate is readily accessible for registration with the testing vendor.
Complete an Illinois Background Check
You must pass a background check before registering for the CompTIA A+ exam. In Illinois, this typically involves an FBI fingerprint check. Visit a LiveScan service provider to submit your fingerprints. The cost is around $50, and results usually take 1-2 weeks. Disqualifying offenses typically include felonies related to fraud or theft.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays in processing your background check.
Self-Study for the CompTIA A+ Exam
Prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam through self-study. Utilize resources such as textbooks, online courses, and practice exams. No classroom or clinical hours are required in Illinois for CompTIA A+. Invest in quality study materials, which can cost between $300 and $1000. This self-paced study can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks depending on your schedule.
Tip
Choose updated materials that cover the latest CompTIA A+ exam objectives to ensure relevance.
Register and Schedule Your CompTIA A+ Exam
Once ready, register for the CompTIA A+ exam through Pearson VUE, the authorized testing vendor. The exam fee is $232. You can choose a testing center in Illinois and schedule your exam date. Registration can be completed online, and scheduling is flexible based on available testing center dates.
Tip
Check for available dates at multiple testing centers to find a suitable schedule.
Take and Pass the CompTIA A+ Exam
On your scheduled exam date, arrive at the testing center with two forms of ID. The CompTIA A+ exam consists of two parts, 220-1001 and 220-1002, focusing on core IT skills. Each part has 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions, with a 90-minute time limit per part. A passing score is 675 for 220-1001 and 700 for 220-1002 on a scale of 100-900. If you fail, you can retake the exam after a 14-day waiting period.
Tip
Arrive early to the testing center to allow time for check-in procedures.
Verify Certification and Register with Illinois
After passing the exam, you'll receive your CompTIA A+ certification digitally within a few days. No further registration with the state of Illinois is required for CompTIA A+. Verify your certification status through the CompTIA certification database. This confirmation is immediate and available online at no additional cost.
Tip
Keep your login information secure to access your certification details anytime.
Start Your Job Search
With your CompTIA A+ certification, you can begin applying for IT positions. Utilize job search platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to find opportunities in Illinois. Tailor your resume to highlight your CompTIA A+ certification and relevant skills. Networking with industry professionals and attending job fairs can also enhance your job prospects.
Tip
Use job-specific keywords in your resume to improve visibility in employer searches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Registering for the CompTIA A+ exam without thorough preparation. Failing the exam requires waiting 14 days for a retake, incurring additional costs and delaying certification.
What to Expect on Exam Day
CompTIA A+ Certification Exam administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 90
Time Limit: 90 minutes
Format: Multiple choice and performance-based
Passing Score: 675 out of 900 for 220-1001; 700 out of 900 for 220-1002
- • Hardware: 34%
- • Networking: 21%
- • Mobile Devices: 17%
- • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting: 28%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CompTIA A+ does not include a separate skills test; all assessments are integrated into the written exam.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one with a photograph
- ✓ Confirmation number of exam appointment
- ✓ Face mask if required by local guidelines
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices (phones, smart watches)
- ✗ Bags or purses
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. The written test lasts 90 minutes. There is no separate skills test.
Getting Your Results
Results are available immediately after the exam on the testing screen. Official score reports are also provided at the test center.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after a 14-day waiting period. The cost of the retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit to the number of retakes, but the waiting period applies each time.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Prioritize time management during the exam to ensure all questions are answered.
- 2. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down answers.
- 3. Review performance-based questions thoroughly as they test practical skills and understanding.
- 4. Flag complex questions for review and focus first on those you can answer quickly.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Local school district office or online through the school's website · Varies, usually free to obtain a copy · 1-2 weeks
Required to prove educational background
Government-Issued Photo ID
Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · Varies, approximately $30 for a state ID · Receive immediately, official ID mailed within 15 days
Needed for exam registration and identification at testing center
Proof of Address
Utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement · Free, unless obtaining a copy of a document that incurs a fee · Immediate to 1 week, depending on the document
Often required to verify residency for testing registration
2During Training
Training Course Enrollment Confirmation
From the training provider upon registration · Included in the course fee
Keep for records and possible reimbursement or tax purposes
Receipts for Study Materials
Obtained at the time of purchase from bookstores or online retailers · No additional cost beyond purchase · Immediate
Useful for budget tracking and tax deductions
Notes and Study Guides
Self-created or obtained through course · Varies · Varies
Essential for effective study and review
3For the Exam
Exam Admission Ticket
CompTIA or authorized testing center website · Included in exam fee
Required for entry to the exam, contains exam details
Exam Scheduling Confirmation
Email confirmation from testing center · No additional cost
Confirm exam date, time, and location
CPR Certification
American Red Cross or American Heart Association · Approximately $50-$100
Not mandatory for CompTIA A+ but recommended for tech positions involving physical labor or high-stress environments
4For Certification
CompTIA A+ Certification
Received by mail from CompTIA upon passing the exams · Included in exam fee
Official document verifying certification status
Digital Badge
Available through CompTIA's certification management platform
Use for digital resumes and professional profiles
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your certification status on the CompTIA website. Download and print your CompTIA A+ certificate. Update your LinkedIn profile and other professional social media to reflect your new credential.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn Jobs, and Dice are effective for technology job searches in Illinois. Local tech meetups and the CompTIA Career Center are also valuable resources.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • IT service providers, large healthcare systems, educational institutions, and government agencies. Service providers often offer varied experience quickly, while institutions like hospitals and schools may provide more stability but slower advancement.
Resume Tip: Highlight any hands-on experience with hardware and software, even from personal projects or volunteer work. List your CompTIA A+ certification prominently. Include soft skills like problem-solving and customer service.
Interview Tip: Describe a technical problem you solved.How do you stay updated with technology advancements?Explain the process of troubleshooting a PC.What customer service experience do you have?
Expected First-Year Salary
In Illinois, entry-level IT technicians with a CompTIA A+ can expect to earn between $30,000 and $40,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Network+ or Security+ certifications
Study and pass the respective CompTIA exams.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Finding the first job can be challenging without prior experience. Building a network and gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work can be effective strategies.
CompTIA A+ Salary in Illinois
In Illinois, CompTIA A+ certified professionals earn a median annual salary of $58,120, slightly below the national median. This reflects a competitive market for IT technicians within the state.
Entry Level
$37,690
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$58,120
$27.94/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$97,020
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,240 national · -1.9% in Illinois
Salary by Metro Area
Higher demand in this major metro area.
Lower demand compared to larger metro areas.
Salary by Employer Type
The median salary in Illinois, while slightly lower than the national average, is generally adequate given the state's cost of living, which varies significantly from urban to rural areas.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for CompTIA A+ certified professionals in Illinois is expected to align with technological advancements and the increasing reliance on IT support.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications beyond CompTIA A+.
- •Research typical salaries for the role within Illinois to inform your discussions.
Job Market in Illinois
In Illinois, the CompTIA A+ job market is facing a challenging environment, reflecting the national trend of a -3.7% growth rate from 2024 to 2034. The state's technology sector, heavily influenced by Chicago's business and tech ecosystem, remains a crucial factor in local demand. However, advancements in automation and outsourcing are tempering job growth prospects.
Top Hiring Areas
Major hub for tech and business, driving regional demand.
Emerging tech sector, but smaller scale compared to Chicago.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with budget cycles and project initiations
Opportunities
- Expansion of remote work increasing opportunities in suburban and rural areas
- Continued growth in healthcare IT needs
Challenges
- Competition with more technologically advanced states
- Limited growth in rural areas compared to urban centers
Training Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers a variety of CompTIA A+ training programs across community colleges, vocational schools, and through employer-sponsored initiatives.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 6 to 12 months | $500 to $3,000 | In-person/Hybrid/Online |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 3 to 6 months | $2,000 to $5,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Chicago, Illinois
Offers flexible scheduling for working students
Chicago, Illinois
High pass rates and job placement assistance
Online & Hybrid Options
Many institutions offer hybrid options, combining online theory with practical in-person sessions.
How to Choose a Program
- •Check the program's accreditation and verify its reputation through student reviews and pass rates.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free CompTIA A+ program info for Illinois
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 3 years
Renewal Fee
See CompTIA website for CE program fees
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: No minimum work hours required for renewal
CE Topics: IT technology updates, New hardware and software
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Since CompTIA A+ is an internationally recognized certification, Illinois does not have specific reciprocity agreements. Certification holders can work in any state or country that recognizes the CompTIA A+ certification.
State Agreements
Not applicable
Additional Exams
No additional exams required
Application Process
Not applicable
Fees
No fees for reciprocity
Processing Time: Not applicable
Licensing Tips
Verify all exam details on the CompTIA website before scheduling.
Prepare for the exam using CompTIA's study materials and training resources.
Recommended Resources
CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Tenth Edition (Exams 220-1001 & 220-1002)
This guide includes practice questions and online test engine with customizable practice exams.
CompTIA A+ Practice Tests by Quentin Docter
Provides over 1,200 practice questions covering all exam objectives for the A+ exams 220-1001 and 220-1002.
CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One For Dummies
Offers comprehensive coverage of the A+ exams with practical examples and insights.
Mike Meyers' CompTIA A+ Guide to Managing and Troubleshooting PCs, Fifth Edition (Exams 220-1001 & 220-1002)
Focuses on practical skills and real-world scenarios in managing and troubleshooting PCs.
Computer Toolkit
Essential for assembling and disassembling computer hardware during hands-on practice.
Spare Computer Parts (RAM, Hard Drives, CPUs)
Allows for hands-on experience with installing and configuring various hardware components.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Stay Updated
Get notified when CompTIA A+ requirements change in your state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Find CompTIA A+ Programs in Illinois
Get free program information sent to your inbox
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities in Illinois.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Illinois Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13