How to Become an Illinois Freemason

Joining our fraternity is a rewarding journey rooted in personal growth, brotherhood, and a shared commitment to helping others. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Fill Out Our Member Interest Form below to let us know you’re interested in becoming an Illinois Freemason.

  2. Fill Out Your Intention to Petition

    • We’ll share a link to our Intention to Petition with you via email if you are a good fit for our organization.

  3. Your Local Lodge Will Review Your Intention to Petition

    • When your Intention to Petition is submitted, it will be shared with a local lodge leader for review. The timing of this step differs by lodge.

  4. Once your Intention to Petition is reviewed, a lodge leader will reach out to you for a discussion and to outline the next steps.

  5. If approved, you will then need to complete the three Masonic degrees to gain full membership status and become a Master Mason.

"Illinois Freemasonry is a wonderful organization, and certainly one you'll be proud to be in." - Brother Alex Edwards

 

Qualifications

To become a Freemason and remain a member, you are expected to demonstrate good character and reputation. You must also meet the following criteria to join Illinois Freemasonry:

  • Be a male

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Be an Illinois resident for at least six monthsBe prepared to profess a belief in God or a Supreme Being

  • Be of good reputation as a man of honor and integrity

  • Complete a criminal background check as one component of the membership evaluation process

Interested in Joining?

Fill out our Member Interest Form

Fill out our Member Interest Form, and we will contact you shortly to begin your journey. If you do not meet the qualifications listed above, then please do not fill out this form. If you need more information, please use our contact form.

Important Note:

— You will receive an email confirming your submission which contains additional information about next steps in our membership evaluation process. Check your junk or spam email folders so that you do not miss that information.

— If that email contains the link to complete an “Intention to Petition” form, then please do so when ready. That completed form provides us with more information about you which is needed to connect you with local Masonic leaders for a conversation.

Background Check Information

Have Questions?

  • To join, you must be a man at least 18 years old, believe in a Supreme Being, and be of good moral character.

  • The timeline varies by lodge but typically takes 1–3 months from inquiry to initiation.

  • Costs vary slightly by lodge but usually include an initiation fee and annual dues. Your local lodge can provide exact amounts.

  • No. While some members are introduced by friends or family, you are welcome to reach out and begin your journey independently.

  • You’ll begin progressing through Masonic degrees and will be welcomed into a supportive community committed to personal growth and service.

Visit our FAQ page for more answers.

Not From Illinois?

If you do not live in Illinois, then please visit BeAFreemason.org  to find the Grand Lodge in your state.