# Self-Certified Architects Chicago's Self-Certification Permit Program allows registered Illinois-licensed architects and structural engineers to take full responsibility for code compliance on a building permit application — bypassing the city's detailed plan review in exchange for faster permit issuance. Instead of the Chicago Department of Buildings reviewing drawings for code compliance, the self-certified professional certifies that the plans meet all applicable Chicago Construction Codes. ## Who qualifies To become a registered self-certification professional, an architect or structural engineer must: - Hold a current Illinois license - Have been licensed for at least 3 years - Complete training offered by the Chicago Department of Buildings - Pass an exam and register with the department Training classes are held every two years. They can sell out, so early registration is recommended. ## Why it matters **Speed.** After zoning approval, a self-certified permit application typically receives a permit within 10 business days, provided all contractor licenses are valid. Standard plan review takes considerably longer. **Missing Middle requirement.** The [[Missing Middle Infill Housing Initiative]] requires that all participating developers use a self-certified architect. Projects must be designed to be permitted as-of-right through the Self-Certification Permit Program. ## Eligible project types The program is available for residential, business, mercantile, and assembly projects. Read the full program rules in Table C-1 to understand what is eligible and Table D to know which "disqualifying features" makes a project ineligible.  *Screenshot of Table C-1 (2020 edition) from the program rules* For example, adding an interior ADU ("conversion unit") is not an eligible project type because it matches the "increase in number of permitted dwelling units" disqualifying feature. ## Finding self-certified architects on Chicago Cityscape You can filter the Contractor & Company Profiles browser to show only self-certified architects. See the [[Play - Contractor & Company Profiles]] article for instructions, and look for the **Self-certified architects** filter. Profiles with an email on file display a contact badge and email address.  *Screenshot of the self-certified architects filter in [Contractor & Company Profiles](https://www.chicagocityscape.com/companies.php#/?is_self_cert_architect=true)* ## Rules and other resources - The self-certified professional must prepare and seal the permit drawings - Drawings are submitted via the city's E-Plan system - Permit expeditors are not allowed to assist with uploading self-certified applications - The [Building Permit Professionals Lookup Tool](https://webapps1.chicago.gov/permitprofessionals/) on chicago.gov lets you search for registered self-certification professionals by name. - Official rules: [Self-Certification Permit Program Rules (effective January 3, 2020)](https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/dol/rulesandregs/Buildings%20SelfCert%20Rules%20eff%2001-03-2020.pdf) - Program overview: [City of Chicago — Self-Certified Permit Application Program](https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bldgs/provdrs/permits/svcs/self-cert-permits.html) ## Related articles - [[Missing Middle Infill Housing Initiative]] — requires a self-certified architect for all participating developers - [[Play - Contractor & Company Profiles]] — use the self-certified architects filter to find registered professionals