In Illinois, athletic trainers must be certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) and licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. To be licensed individuals must:

• graduate from an approved athletic training program at a four year accredited college or university;
• meet the minimum athletic training curriculum requirements established by the Board of Certification, Inc.;
• complete 800 hours of clinical experience; and
• successfully complete the certification examination for the Board of Certification, Inc.

Licensure must be renewed every two years. People who combine athletic training with secondary school teaching must also be certified as teachers.

For additional information, contact:

Certification is optional for athletic trainers. However, a license in many states requires certification by the Board of Certification, Inc. Many employers also require certification. NATA requires that each member:

• have a bachelor's degree; or
• graduate from an accredited program in athletic training;
• have a current first aid card and CPR certification; and
• pass written and oral exams.

For more information about becoming certified as an athletic trainer through the BOC, contact:

The American Sports Medicine Association and Certification Board, Inc. certifies athletic trainers with strong medical preparation. To be certified by this organization, applicants must:

• have completed an Emergency Medical Technician course (EMT-1); or
• have a current health profession medical license such as LPN, RN, MD.

The American Sports Medicine Association and Certification Board also certifies student trainers. For more information, contact: