What is the difference between BACP and IDFPR in Chicago?

Illinois is one of only nine US states that does not license general contractors at the state level — verifying a state license alone tells you nothing in Chicago. The Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) administers the Roofing Industry Licensing Act of 1995 (225 ILCS 335) and licenses ONLY Roofing Contractors statewide. Every other trade — general contracting, remodeling, additions, foundation work, exterior envelope — is regulated at the municipal level.

In Chicago, general contractors must hold a BACP General Contractor License issued by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection under Municipal Code §4-36. The class structure is dollar-volume tiered: Class A ($10M+ project value), Class B ($5M-$10M), Class C ($2M-$5M), Class D ($500K-$2M), Class E (under $500K). Class E covers most single-family remodels. The applicant must pass an exam, post a $10K-$25K surety bond depending on class, carry $300K-$1M general liability with the City of Chicago named additional insured, and maintain Illinois workers' compensation per 820 ILCS 305.

For verification, run two independent searches. First, BACP licensee lookup at chicago.gov/business — confirms active GC license, class, bond status, and expiration. Second, IDFPR license lookup at idfpr.illinois.gov — only relevant if the project includes roofing scope, in which case the roofing portion must be performed or subcontracted to an IDFPR-licensed Roofing Contractor (Limited or Unlimited).

Never accept an IDFPR roofing license alone as proof a contractor can pull a Chicago general permit. The Chicago Department of Buildings (CDOB) will reject the permit application at intake. Conversely, never let a BACP-only GC self-perform roofing — that violates 225 ILCS 335 §3.05 and exposes the homeowner to enforcement.

Trade subs (electrical, plumbing) carry their own Chicago licenses under Municipal Code §4-294 and §4-292 respectively. Always request the trade sub's license number on the contract, not just the GC's BACP number.