HowToGetLicensed

Personal Trainer License: California vs Illinois

Thinking about getting your personal trainer license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California Illinois
Education Hours 100 hours 100 hours
Exam NASM-CPT, ACE-CPT, or NSCA-CPT NASM-CPT, ACE-CPT, or NSCA-CPT
Application Fee $0 $0
Exam Fee $400 $400
Total Estimated Cost $800 - $1,800 $700 - $1,700
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 20 hours 20 hours
Renewal Fee $0 $0

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $700-$1,700 compared to $800-$1,800.

Education: Both states require 100 hours of education.

Full State Guides

Compare personal trainer requirements across all 50 states →