Illinois Concealed Carry License
Things You Need To know
On July 9, 2013, Public Act 98-63, the Firearm Concealed Carry Act became state law (430 ILCS 66).
This law requires an Illinois Concealed Carry License to carry a concealed firearm in Illinois.
FAQS (find these & more by clicking any question below)
No. You must have a valid FOID in order to have a CCL
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The applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years of age,
- Have a currently valid FOID card (if an Illinois resident),
- Not be prohibited under federal law from possessing or receiving a firearm,
- Not have been convicted or found guilty in Illinois or any other state of: (a) a misdemeanor involving the use or threat of physical force or violence to any person within the last 5 years, (b) two or more violations related to driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drug or drugs, intoxicating compound or compounds, or any combination thereof, within the last five years,
- Not be the subject of a pending arrest warrant, prosecution, or proceeding for an offense or action that could lead to disqualification,
- Not have been in residential or court-ordered treatment for alcoholism, alcohol detoxification, or drug treatment within the last five years,
- Have submitted a completed Concealed Carry License application and successfully completed 16 hours of firearms training, including classroom and range instruction.
A 16 hour training course must -- at minimum -- cover the following topics:
- Firearms Safety - a minimum of 1 hour;
- Basic Principles of Marksmanship - a minimum of 1 hour;
- Care, Cleaning, Loading and Unloading of a Concealable Firearm - a minimum of 1 hour;
- All Applicable State and Federal Laws Relating to the Ownership, Storage, Carry and Transportation of a Firearm (including but not limited to the appropriate and lawful interaction with law enforcement while transporting or carrying a concealed firearm) - a minimum of 2 hours; and
- Weapons Handling - a minimum of 1 range hour.
All applicants must pass a live-fire exercise with a concealable firearm consisting of:- A minimum of 30 rounds
- 10 rounds from a distance of 5 yards, 10 rounds from a distance of 7 yards, and 10 rounds from a distance of 10 yards, fired at a B-27 silhouette target approved by the ISP.
Who needs a CCL?
Everyone who wants to carry a concealed firearm on his/her person in Illinois is required to have an Illinois Concealed Carry License except current peace officers and retired police officers eligible under a federally approved retired officer concealed carry program such as the Illinois Retired Officer Concealed Carry (IROCC) Program. Retired officers may be eligible to carry under either the IROCC Program or the Firearm Concealed Carry Act, however, the retired officers should review both methods as the CCL may be more restrictive
The fees are (non-refundable per 430 ILCS 66/60) $150 for Illinois residents and $300 for out-of-state residents. The ISP uses Illinois ePay. Illinois ePay applies a 2.25% service fee, or a minimum of $1.00 for credit/debit cards. Electronic checks are accepted. Cash, paper checks, or money orders are not accepted.
A newly-issued Concealed Carry License has a five-year expiration date
.Can an applicant take part of their hours from one instructor and additional hours from another instructor?
No. Outside of prior training credits, you need to take all the hours during a single class. If there are multiple instructors during a single class, all instructors must sign the training certificate and provide their Instructor ID.
Please visit the ISP website. It contains reasons for denial and revocation, a discussion on firearms rights restoration, types of appeals, forms, and links to statutes and administrative rules.
TIPS & REMINDERS
The Four Fundamental Rules
Treat All Guns as Loaded: Even if you believe a gun is unloaded, handle it with the same respect as a loaded weapon. Never take someone’s word that it is empty.
Never Point the Muzzle at Anything You Are Not Willing to Destroy: Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction at all times (e.g., ground or sky). A safe direction means a bullet would not cause injury or damage if it fired.
Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot: Keep your finger straight and outside the trigger guard until your sights are on the target and you have made the decision to fire.
Know Your Target and What Is Beyond It: Never shoot at a target without knowing what is behind it, as bullets can pass through, skip, or ricochet
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Safety Rules for the Range
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a novice, incorporating regular visits to the shooting range should be part of your training routine. In fact, in some states, it’s even mandatory. Responsible gun owners understand that the ability to shoot well and handle firearms safely are perishable skills. A shooting range is the safest way to become a competent and consistent shooter.
Fundamental Firearms Safety Rules
These general gun safety instructions can significantly help you prevent negligent discharge at the shooting range. However, shooting ranges often have additional requirements and specific etiquette rules to follow.
Range safety begins at the counter when you check in. In addition to selling range time, ammo and targets, range staff will want you to sign a liability waiver. Some ranges require shooters to watch a safety video. First-time shooters at the gun range should expect to receive a copy of the range rules. You should ask any questions you have before going. Inside a range is noisy, and it is far easier to get the questions answered outside the range.
Restrictions for Safety on the Range
Shooting ranges, both indoor and outdoor, are designed to provide a safe environment for firearms enthusiasts to practice their skills. However, they often come with a set of restrictions that can vary based on the facility’s rules and local regulations. Some of which include but are NOT limited to:
- Restricted Firearms & Ammunition
- Drawing From the Holster
- Designated Gun Handling Areas
How to Be Safe at Shooting Ranges
Safety should always be the top priority. From the correct use of eye and ear protection to disciplined firearms handling, each step is geared towards fostering a culture of safety at the range. Some of which include but are NOT limited to:
- Bring the Right Eye and Ear Protection
- Exercise Discipline
- Manage Your Pistol
- Practice Situational Awareness
- ALWAYS Abide by the Rules
The vast majority of shooting ranges provide a safe and controlled environment. They are supervised and equipped with safety measures like adequate backstops and partitions between shooting lanes. In every aspect, the shooting range is a safe place to learn how to handle any firearm. Contribute to ensuring a safe environment for everyone by practicing safe and responsible gun ownership
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Remember Stay Safe & Always Carry Your Firearm Responsibly