Firearm FAQs

Whether you’re new to firearms or a seasoned gun owner, it’s normal to have questions. The Firearm Mentor has compiled over 35 of the most Frequently Asked Questions that cover the most common inquiries about firearm safety, training requirements, concealed carry laws, licensing, and more. We aim to provide clear, reliable answers to help you stay informed, responsible, and compliant. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out — we’re here to help

Firearm FAQs

Firearm FAQs by Category

Firearm FAQs – FOID Card Questions

What is a FOID Card?

The FOID Card was created in 1968, by the Firearm Owner’s Identification Act, as part of a public safety initiative in the State of Illinois to identify those persons eligible to possess and acquire firearms and firearm ammunition. The FOID Act can be found here.

Who needs a FOID Card?

Unless specifically exempted by statute, any Illinois resident who acquires or possesses firearms, firearm ammunition, tasers or stun guns within the State must have in their possession a valid FOID Card issued in his or her name. Non-residents are not eligible to have a FOID Card.

Are there exemptions to the requirement of having a FOID Card?

Yes. The FOID Act outlines the following exemptions.

  • United States Marshals, while engaged in the operation of their official duties.
  • Members of the Armed Forces of the United States or the National Guard, while engaged in the operation of their official duties.
  • Federal officials required to carry firearms, while engaged in the operation of their official duties.
  • Members of bona fide veteran’s organizations which receive firearms directly from the armed forces of the United States, while using the firearms for ceremonial purposes with blank ammunition.
  • Nonresident hunters during hunting season, with valid nonresident hunting licenses and while in an area where hunting is permitted.
  • Nonresidents while on a firing or shooting range recognized by the Department of State Police.
  • Nonresidents while at a firearm showing or display recognized by the Department of State Police.
  • Nonresidents whose firearms are unloaded and enclosed in a case.
  • Nonresidents who are currently licensed or registered to possess a firearm in their resident state.
  • Un-emancipated minors while in the custody and immediate control of their parent or legal guardian and the parent or legal guardian currently has a valid FOID card.
  • Color guards of bona fide veteran’s organizations or members of bona fide American Legion bands while using firearms for ceremonial purposes with blank ammunition.
  • Nonresident hunters whose state of residence does not require them to be licensed or registered to possess a firearm and only during hunting season. The nonresident must have a valid hunting license and be accompanied by and be using a firearm owned by, a person who possesses a valid FOID card. This is allowed only while in an area within a commercial club licensed under the Wildlife Code where hunting is permitted and controlled, but in no instance upon sites owned or managed by the Department of Natural Resources.
  • Resident hunters who are properly authorized to hunt and, while accompanied by a person who possesses a valid FOID card, hunt in an area within a commercial club licensed under the Wildlife Code where hunting is permitted.

How long is the FOID Card valid?

The FOID Card is valid for 10 years, subject to auto-renewal in certain circumstances.

What is the fee for applying for a FOID Card?

The FOID Card application fee is $10.00. The Illinois State Police uses the state of Illinois e-Pay program, therefore, a service fee of 2.25% or a minimum of $1.00 for credit/debit cards will be applied. Electronic checks are accepted. Cash, check, or money-orders are not accepted.

How do I access my eCard?

After you log into your FOID Dashboard, you will find a section called “My eCard” on the left-hand side. When you click on this area, it will pop-up a window that will display your eCard.

Can I use the FOID eCard to purchase firearms and ammunition?

Yes. The FOID eCard may be used to purchase firearms and ammunition. However, it is within the dealer’s discretion whether to accept the eCard in lieu of the physical FOID card.

Who is eligible for a FOID Card?

To be eligible for a FOID card, a person must be 21 years of age or have a parent or guardian sponsor who is eligible for a FOID card. An applicant must not be prohibited from possessing firearms in accordance with state or federal law. This requires the applicant is/has:

  • Not been convicted of a felony.
  • Not addicted to narcotics.
  • Not been a patient in a mental health facility within the past five years.
  • Not intellectually disabled.
  • Not an alien who is unlawfully present in the United States.
  • Not subject to an existing order of protection.
  • Not been convicted within the past 5 years of battery, assault, aggravated assault, violation of an order of protection, or a substantially similar offense in another jurisdiction, in which a firearm was used or possessed.
  • Not been convicted of domestic battery, aggravated domestic battery, or a substantially similar offense in another jurisdiction.
  • Not an alien who has been admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa; unless the applicant is an official representative of a foreign government or who received a waiver from the Attorney General of the United States.
  • Not a minor subject to a petition filed under the Juvenile Court Act of 1987 alleging that the minor is a delinquent minor for the commission of an offense that if committed by an adult would be a felony.
  • Not an adult who had been adjudicated a delinquent minor under the Juvenile Court Act of 1987 for the commission of an offense that if committed by an adult would be a felony.
  • Is a resident of the State of Illinois (in most cases).
  • Not a person whose mental condition is of such a nature that it poses a clear and present danger to the applicant, or any other person or the community.
  • Not developmentally disabled.
  • Not renounced their citizenship.
  • Not dishonorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces.
  • Not convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen? Can I apply for a FOID Card?

Yes, you will be required to provide an Alien Registration Number, I-94 Admission Number, or USCIS Number upon application to determine your eligibility. You can find these numbers on either your Permanent Resident Card or Employment Authorization Card. Subject to a narrow exception, if you are currently in the U.S. under a non-immigrant visa, you will not be eligible to obtain a FOID Card.

What if I am not an Illinois resident but work in Illinois in a law enforcement or armed security job that requires me to carry a firearm? May I apply for a FOID card?

Yes. Applicants will be required to upload completed ISP forms Out of State Affidavit and Employment Requirement Certification. Both can be found in the FOID tab of the section Helpful Documents. PLEASE ALSO UPLOAD A COPY OF YOUR OUT-OF-STATE DRIVER’S LICENSE

What if I am an out of state resident but an active member of the U.S. military and stationed in Illinois? Can I apply for a FOID card?

Yes. You will need to provide information for the base where you are stationed while in Illinois, a copy of your military assignment orders, a copy of your U.S. Military ID and the completed Out of State Affidavit, found in the FOID tab of the section Helpful Documents.

Can I apply for a FOID Card if I am less than 21 years old?

Yes, a minor can apply for a FOID Card as long as they have a sponsor who is a parent or legal guardian. The parent or legal guardian does not have to have a FOID Card, but must be eligible for a FOID Card. The parent or legal guardian must also sign an affidavit, HAVE THE AFFIDAVIT NOTARIZED, and attach it to the application.

If I am under 21 years of age, but I am married, can my spouse sign as my sponsor?

No. A parent or someone who has been appointed as your legal guardian by court order must be your sponsor.

If I am under 21 years of age, my parents are not living, but I am over the age of 18, can I apply for a FOID Card?

A person under age 21 can apply for a FOID Card as long as they have a sponsor who is a parent or legal guardian. If your parents are not living, you will need someone appointed as a legal guardian to sponsor your application. The legal guardian must also sign an affidavit, have the affidavit notarized, and attach it to the application. If you are denied a FOID card because your sponsor is not eligible, you may seek relief by filing an appeal with the Office of Firearms Safety.

If I am not 21 years of age, my parents are not living or are not eligible to be FOID sponsors, but am in the military, can I obtain a FOID Card?

Yes. The ISP can waive the sponsor requirement. Minors who are active duty military must also submit their Orders annually to the ISP for their FOID card to remain valid.

If the minor applicant cannot sign the application, can the parent sign it for them?

No. The parent or legal guardian cannot sign the application on behalf of the minor applicant. If the minor applicant is not able to sign the application, a copy of the applicant’s birth certificate is required.

How do I apply for a FOID card online?

Apply for a FOID card by visiting our website and clicking on the blue “Enter” button. The following presentation provides a quick overview of the FOID Application Process.

Can I apply online using my smartphone or tablet?

Yes

Can I phone in my FOID card application?

Yes. Paper applications may be obtained by contacting the Firearms Services Bureau Call Center at (217) 782-7980, but will only be accepted from applicants with appropriate proof an individual is unable to apply either on the internet or at a customer service kiosk due to a religious exemption or a disability. Proof of disability includes, but is not limited to, documentation from: A) the Social Security Administration; B) the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission; C) the U.S. Department of Defense; D) an insurer authorized to transact business in Illinois who is providing disability insurance coverage; or E) a physician or healthcare provider licensed in this State and is in the position to know the applicant’s medical condition.

I obtained a paper FOID application from a gun dealer. May I use it to apply for a FOID card? If not, can I use the non-ISP resource I found on the internet to complete and submit an application?

No

What do I need to complete my FOID application?

You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, street address of residence, Driver’s License or Identification Card number, and a color photograph.

What are the photo requirements for the FOID card?

Applicants need to provide a color photograph, recently taken, and in a likeness of the applicant. The face cannot be obstructed. If applying through the online application you will need to upload an electronic photograph that is a color, head and shoulders photo with no obstruction of the facial features and no digital alterations. Please remove hats and sunglasses before taking the picture. If you are applying through the alternative call-in method, you need to attach the color photo to the front of the paper application with clear tape. Do not send a picture of your driver’s license or state ID.

When should I expect to receive my FOID card?

The Illinois State Police will issue your card pending verification that all information is accurate and you are eligible under the FOID Act. FOID renewals are processed within 60 business days. New FOID applications are processed within 30 calendar days. Please allow up to 10 additional days for printing and mailing before inquiring about your card.

When can I renew my FOID card?

A FOID cardholder may renew their FOID card up to 180 days in advance of the expiration date.

How do I renew my FOID card?

Your FOID card can be renewed through the online method or at one of our four self-service kiosks in: Troop 3/District 5,Lockport; Troop 6/District 9,Springfield; Troop 8/District 11,Collinsville; or, Troop 10/District 13, Du Quoin.

I renewed my FOID but a new card never arrived. Why?

Now that Illinois is issuing combination-style cards with no printed expiration dates, if, upon renewal, nothing changes except your expiration date, no new card will be sent.

Can I keep my firearms if my FOID expires?

If you chose to allow your FOID card to expire, you will no longer be able to purchase or possess firearms in the state of Illinois. Any firearms in your possession will need to be transferred to a person lawfully eligible to possess firearms either through a Federally Licensed Firearm Dealer or the Person to Person Verify Portal at www.ispfsb.com and then clicking on Transfers.

How do I report my FOID Card Lost or Stolen?

You can report your FOID Card lost or stolen by logging into the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website.

What if I damaged my FOID Card? How can I get a replacement?

You may request a replacement card by logging into the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website.

What does a replacement FOID Card cost?

A replacement FOID card costs $5.00 plus a $1.00 ePay service fee for credit or debit cards. Electronic checks are accepted. Cash, paper checks, or money orders are not accepted.

How do I change my name or address on the FOID Card?

FOID Cardholders may request a name or address change to their FOID card by logging into the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website. Once at your dashboard, select “EDIT NAME/ADDRESS.”

What does a name or address change to the FOID Card cost?

A corrected card for a name or address change to the FOID Card costs $5.00 plus a $1.00 ePay service fee for credit or debit cards. Electronic checks are accepted. Cash, paper checks, or money orders are not accepted.

What if I moved or changed my name, but now I need to renew my FOID? Should I change my name/address first?

  1. Simply proceed with the renewal process. You will be given an opportunity to make the necessary changes during the FOID renewal process.

How do I cancel my FOID Card?

Simply mail it back to the Firearms Services Bureau at 801 S. 7th Street, Suite 400M, Springfield, Illinois 62703. Include a note that you would like us to cancel the card and why. Be sure to include a telephone number where we can contact you.

I am active duty military and heard that I do not have to pay for a new or renewal FOID application fee. Is that true?

Yes. Under Section 5(a) of the FOID Act, 430 ILCS 65/5(a), any applicant who is an active duty member of the Armed Forces of the United States, a member of the Illinois National Guard, or a member of the Reserve Forces of the United States is exempt from the application fee.

I am active duty military. How do I apply for a FOID card without charge?

During the application process you will be given the opportunity to apply without the application fee. You will be required to attach a copy of your Military ID.

If I am active duty military, am I exempt from the fees for a FOID replacement card due to name or address change or if my FOID card is lost, stolen, or damaged?

No. You are still required to pay the fee for a replacement card due to name or address change or if your FOID card is lost, stolen, or damaged, even if you are entitled to a military fee exemption from the application fee.

Firearm FAQs – CCL (Concealed Carry License) Questions

Do I need a FOID Card to take a concealed to carry class?

No. A FOID is not required to take the class but is needed to apply for a CCL.

What are the qualifications to obtain a Concealed to Carry (CCL license)?

21+ years old – Valid FOID – No disqualifying criminal history or substance abuse issues – Completion of 16-hour firearms training. Additionally, applicants

  • 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.

Is there an online class?

No.  All training must be in person

If I am an Illinois resident and I possess a valid Concealed Carry License, does my concealed carry handgun need to comply with PICA regulations?

Yes. A concealed carry handgun must comply with PICA regulations. A handgun is regulated by PICA if it has any features set forth in 720 ILCS 5/24-1.9(c)(e.g. a threaded barrel) and if it is a firearm listed by name in 720 ILCS 5/24-1.9(k). The handgun cannot have a magazine capable of holding more than 15 rounds of ammunition as that magazine is considered a large capacity ammunition feeding device that can only be lawfully possessed in limited places set forth in 720 ILCS 5/24-1.10(d).

Is a CCL a replacement for a FOID?

No. The FOID Card is not the same as a concealed carry license. You must have a valid FOID in order to have a CCL.

Can out-of-state residents obtain an Illinois Concealed Carry License?

Yes. However, only residents of states or territories of the United States with laws related to firearm ownership, possession, and carrying that are substantially similar to the requirements to obtain a license under the Firearm Concealed Carry Act are eligible.

How can I find out if my state’s laws are considered “substantially similar?”

The Illinois State Police sent a survey to each state to determine which states have laws that are substantially similar. Currently, the only states considered to be substantially similar are Arkansas, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, Texas and Virginia. Click here to view the CCL Substantially Similar Survey

What if I moved out of state? What should I do with my CCL?

Simply mail it back to the Firearms Services Bureau at 801 S. 7th Street, Suite 400M, Springfield, Illinois, 62703. Include a note that you have moved out of state and are surrendering your CCL. If you are moving to a substantially similar state and wish to have an Illinois CCL, you must contact the Firearms Services Bureau via email isp.ccw.illinois@illinois.gov to have your FOID canceled so that you may apply for a CCL change of address. You must submit your CCL from your new state, a copy of your new state ID, and a notarized Out of State affidavit.

I have a question about my CCL denial or revocation.

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.

Where can business owners obtain information about required signage?

Signage information is available on this website at Public Signage.

Can a business owner post a sign larger than 4 inches by 6 inches?

Yes.

Can a state agency prohibit concealed carry for all of its buildings or are there any limitations it has to worry about?

All state buildings are prohibited areas and must be posted as such.

Can a person who has a CCL carry a concealed firearm at a place of worship if there is a pre-school, after school program or faith-based school on the premises?

No, regardless of whether the religious leaders of the place of worship authorize such conduct, a person who has a CCL may not carry a concealed firearm at a place of worship if there is a pre-school, after school program, or faith-based school on the premises. However, if there is no pre-school, after school program, or faith-based school on the premises, nothing prevents a person who has a CCL to carry a concealed firearm at a place of worship where transient child care is provided temporarily while parents or custodians of the children are occupied on the premises and readily available so long as the place of worship has not otherwise posted that the carrying of concealed firearms on the property is prohibited.

Does the parking lot exception rule allow me to have a firearm in the parking area of a prohibited place?

Yes and no.  You can have your firearm in your vehicle or the immediate area around your vehicle with the intent to secure it in the trunk.  You cannot “walk around with a concealed firearm” in the parking lot.

What if I am asked to provide proof by law enforcement but do not physically have my CCL or Combo (FOID/CCL) card?

Similar to the display of a digital insurance card, the Combo (FOID/CCL) eCard will allow applicants to show their most recent information during a traffic stop.

How will Illinois State Police (ISP) officers and local law enforcement respond to citizens who are carrying weapons?

The ISP will continue to enforce the law in effect. Persons who carry firearms without a Concealed Carry License issued by the ISP are subject to arrest.

What is the parking lot exemption for CCL holders in prohibited places?

Any licensee prohibited from carrying a concealed firearm into a prohibited location shall be permitted to carry a concealed firearm on or about his or her person within a vehicle into the parking area and may store a firearm or ammunition concealed in a case within a locked vehicle or locked container out of plain view within the vehicle in the parking area. A licensee may carry a concealed firearm in the immediate area surrounding his or her vehicle within a prohibited parking lot area only for the limited purpose of storing or retrieving a firearm within the vehicle’s trunk. This exception does not apply to any area where firearms are prohibited under federal law or to property regulated by the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

What if I did not receive my CCL?

Please allow for the appropriate processing time-plus time for mail delivery-to pass before calling to check on the status of your CCL application. If at that time you have not received your CCL, call the Customer Service Center at 217-782-7980.

Will Illinois CCL holders have reciprocity in other states?

This will be determined by the laws of the 49 other states. Illinois Concealed Carry License holders who want to conceal and carry in other states are responsible for researching the state laws to where they are traveling.

I heard about a Combo FOID/CCL card. What is it and how do I get one?

All cards issued by the Firearms Services Bureau are now Combination (Combo) cards because the cards are a FOID card with a CCL indicator, “CCL: Yes” or “CCL: No.” A Concealed Carry License holder no longer has to carry two cards. The Combo card does not include an expiration date or issue date. All CCL cards will be replaced with the new printed FOID/CCL Combo cards.

What information/documentation will current military personnel or veterans need to provide to receive credit for 8 hours of training?

Current military personnel will need to provide documentation identifying the holder as an active member of the US Armed Forces (CAC or DD Form 2 ID cards in green, blue, or red, for instance). Veterans will need to provide a copy of their DD-214 or NGB 22.

I was just notified that my CCL instructor was revoked and that I have to submit a new training certificate. What do I do now?

Follow the instructions in your notification letter.

My application was rejected because I did not have a training certificate, what does this mean?

If a person applies but fails to also submit the training certificate, the ISP will reject the application. Rejection is NOT a denial. A rejection means your submission is incomplete and needs correction or additional documentation. If your application is rejected, you will be given 60 days to submit the missing information. If you do not provide the missing information including the training certificate within 60 days, the application will be denied. If the application is denied you will have to pay another fee and resubmit a complete application including the training certificate.

What does a replacement CCL cost?

Whether due to damaged/lost/stolen, or name/address change, all replacement CCL cards cost $75.00 plus a 2.25 percent ePay service fee for credit/debit cards. Electronic checks are accepted. Cash, paper checks, or money orders are no longer accepted.

How do I report my CCL lost or stolen?

You can report your CCL lost or stolen by logging into the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website, or by calling the Customer Service Center at 217-782-7980. You must notify the ISP within 10 days of discovering your CCL is lost or stolen.

What if I damaged or destroyed my CCL? How can I get a replacement?

You may request a replacement CCL by logging into the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website or by calling the Customer Service Center at 217-782-7980. You will retain your current CCL number and expiration date. You must notify the ISP within 10 days of discovering your CCL is destroyed.

How do I change my name or address on my CCL?

CCL holders may request a name or address change by logging into the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website. Once at your dashboard select “EDIT NAME/ADDRESS.” Please Note: your CCL must match the name and address on your Illinois Driver’s License or State Identification Card. Click here to change your address with the SOS. You may also request a name/address change by calling 217-782-7980 for the call-in alternative application. The fee for the name or address change is $75 plus a nominal service fee.

What if I moved or changed my name after I submitted my application, but before I received my CCL?

If the CCL has not yet been mailed, you can provide the new name or address by selecting the “EDIT NAME/ADDRESS” button on the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website. If you are not able to make the change on the website, you may contact the Customer Service Center at 217-782-7980 for help updating your name or address. If the card has already been printed and mailed, you will need to complete the procedures for a “NAME/ADDRESS CHANGE.”

How do I cancel my CCL?

Simply mail your CCL back to the Firearms Services Bureau at 801 S. 7th Street, Suite 400M, Springfield, Illinois 62703. Include a note that you would like us to cancel the card and explain why.

How do I renew my CCL?

Your CCL can be renewed through the on-line method at our website , at one of our four, self-service kiosks in Troop3/District 5,Lockport; Troop 6/District 9, Springfield; Troop 8/District 11, Collinsville; or Troop 10/District 13, DuQuion.

Can I renew with a 3-hour refresher training certificate even after my CCL has expired?

In most circumstances, yes. However, if you renew your CCL after its expiration date, your card will be invalid while your application is being processed.

I renewed my CCL but a new card never arrived. Why?

Now that Illinois is issuing combination-style cards with no printed expiration dates, if, upon renewal, nothing changes except your expiration date, no new card will be sent.

Can I submit fingerprints (a Transaction Control Number (TCN)) that I have from a job application or that were required for my employment?

No

Where can I go to get fingerprinted?

Firearm Mentor has an outside vendor visit the class to provide fingerprinting services.

If I submit fingerprints for my CCL application, is that record retained or will I be required to resubmit at the time of renewal?

Once you submit a Transaction Control Number (TCN), it will remain a permanent part of your Illinois CCL record.

Can I go to a police department to be fingerprinted?

Only when the local police department is a licensed Live Scan vendor for fee applications.

How do I apply for a CCL?

You may apply for a CCL by visiting the Firearms Services Bureau website. Our website is now mobile-device friendly!

How long will it take to obtain my CCL?

Upon receipt of a completed application, including the fee, the ISP issues or denies the applicant an Illinois Concealed Carry License within 90 days, provided the applicant submits a full set of fingerprints in electronic format. If fingerprints are not submitted, the ISP is granted an additional 30 days to complete a manual background check.

Are individuals with physical disabilities eligible to apply for and receive a CCL?

Yes, if the person meets the qualifications for a license holder. There is no exemption from these standards for people with physical disabilities.

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.

What is the cost for an Illinois Concealed Carry License?

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.  This does not include course costs, range fees, ammunition, etc.

How do I apply for an Illinois Concealed Carry License?

You may apply for a CCL by visiting the ISP Firearms Services Bureau website.

How long is a CCL valid?

A newly-issued Concealed Carry License has a five-year expiration date.

Can I purchase a firearm or ammunition using my CCL?

Yes. As long as your FOID is valid, 430 ILCS 65/3 (a) allows you to present your CCL in lieu of a FOID to purchase a firearm or ammunition.

Is a CCL a replacement for the FOID?

No. You must have a valid FOID in order to have a CCL.

Will persons with a CCL be allowed to open carry?

No. You can only carry a handgun as defined in the Firearm Concealed Carry Act if it is completely or mostly concealed from view of the public.

Are there firearms that I cannot use in a Firearm Mentor Class?

The following firearms are prohibited in Firearm Mentor Classes:

  1. Sig P320, Sig M17, and Sig M18
  2. Firearms previously listed as rifles, but classified as pistols. These include, but are not limited to AR-15s, AK-47s/Dracos, and Galil.
  3. Semi Auto Firearms developed from Submachineguns including, but not limited to: Tec-9, Tec-22, HK MP7, Keltec P50, Mac-10, Mac-11, Mauser C-96, CZ Scorpion, Steyr TMP, HK MP5, B&T MP9, Calicos and all clones.
  4. Pen guns, credit card guns and anything that does not look like a traditional firearm.
  5. Firearms produced before 1900.
  6. Firearms deemed unsafe by the instructor’s discretion (i.e., missing screws, damage).
  7. In any of these cases, a firearm will be provided to the student to use in class.

Firearm FAQs – Firearms Training Questions

Do I need my own gun for class?

No. Firearm Mentor provides firearms and ammo. Students are encouraged to utilize their own firearm.

Is anyone exempt from the training requirements in the Act?

Yes. The exemptions are set by statute and cannot be expanded upon by the ISP.

What does the firearms training course consist of?

A 16-hour training course must — at minimum — cover the following topics:

  1. Firearms Safety – a minimum of 1 hour;
  2. Basic Principles of Marksmanship – a minimum of 1 hour;
  3. Care, Cleaning, Loading and Unloading of a Concealable Firearm – a minimum of 1 hour;
  4. 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
  5. Weapons Handling – a minimum of 1 range hour.
    All applicants must pass a live-fire exercise with a concealable firearm consisting of:

    1. A minimum of 30 rounds
    2. 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 can receive credit for up to eight hours of prior training (from either previous courses or experience)?

The statute provides that active, retired, and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces shall be considered to have completed 8 hours of the 16-hour training requirement. Those applying for a CCL who have completed a training course that is approved by the ISP and recognized under the laws of another state may receive up to 8 hours of training toward the 16-hour training requirement.

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.

Is everyone required to go through exactly the same (or a cookie cutter) program or do the instructors have any discretion to teach based upon skill level?

The ISP encourages instructors to teach to proficiency. The minimum hours of instruction listed earlier are a guide for this purpose. However, the exact make-up of the training will be at the discretion of the individual instructors.

Do applicants have to own their own equipment including a firearm before they can take a training class?

Not necessarily. Equipment requirements will be set by approved instructors.  Some weapons are prohibited in class.

What does “Hit the Target” and “Scoring Area” mean in reference to the required range portion of Concealed Carry License Training?

“Hit the Target” and “Scoring Area” mean a round that has impacted within the black portion of the silhouette on a B-27 target. Any round that breaks the line between the black portion of the silhouette and the non-scoring area is considered a “hit.”

General Firearm FAQs

Can I use the Combo (FOID/CCL) eCard to purchase firearms and ammunition?

Yes. However, it is within the dealer’s discretion whether to accept the eCard in lieu of the physical Combo card.

Can I transfer a large capacity magazine?

Yes. However, you must transfer it to an authorized person as outlined in the Protect Illinois Communities Act (an heir, an individual residing in another state maintaining it in another state, or a dealer licensed as a federal firearms dealer).

Further within 10 days of the transfer (except if transferred to an heir), you must notify the Illinois State Police by using the Person-to-Person transfer portal.

Can an IL resident buy large capacity magazines from a private individual or gun dealer?

No, unless subject to one of the narrow PICA exemptions, purchases are not permitted.

What is considered a large capacity magazine?

A magazine, belt, drum, feed strip, or similar device that has a capacity of, or that can be readily restored or converted to accept, more than 10 rounds of ammunition for long guns and more than 15 rounds of ammunition for handguns; or any combination of parts from which a device described can be assembled. See 720 ILCS 5/24-1.10(a).

Should I get a concealed carry badge?

No.  Having a badge that you carry around is a bad idea.  The risk is being misidentified as a police officer.