225 ILCS 415/9
Applications for original certificates shall be made to the Department in writing on forms prescribed by the Department and shall be accompanied by the required fee, which shall not be returnable. Any such application shall require such information as in the judgment of the Department will enable the Department to pass on the qualifications of the applicant for certification.
In determining competency, the Department shall require proof thaxt the applicant has a good understanding of the English language, including reading, spelling and vocabulary, and that the applicant has sufficient ability to accurately report any of the matters comprising the practice of shorthand reporting as herein defined, by the use of any system of manual or mechanical shorthand or shorthand writing, and a clear understanding of obligations between a shorthand reporter and the parties to any proceedings reported, as well as the provisions of this Act.
225 ILCS 415/9