Frequently Asked Questions

DISCLAIMER: Answers provided to the following questions are meant only to give general guidance. The answers do not and are not meant to replace statutory language.

If you have a question regarding the Firearm Owner's Identification Card or the Firearm Concealed Carry Act that is not addressed in these sections, please call (217) 782-7980.

**Protect Illinois Communities Act (PICA)**
1. FOID Overview
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.
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.
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 at our website, 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.
2. FOID Card Eligibility
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.
Am I eligible for a FOID card if I have a Medical Marijuana License, am a caregiver pursuant to the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act, or otherwise use cannabis recreationally?
Yes. However, under Federal law, you are subject to restrictions that prohibit you from acquiring or possessing firearms and firearms ammunition. These restrictions are pursuant to the Gun Control Act of 1968, specifically, 18 U.S.C. § 922, and remain in effect for one year after the revocation or relinquishment of your medical cannabis card.
What if I am Amish or have a religious exemption from the photo requirement? Can I apply for a FOID Card without a photo?
Yes, Amish or religious exempt applicants will only be able to apply for a FOID card through the alternative call-in application method or visiting an FSB kiosk at an ISP Troop headquarters. Applicants will need to provide a set of fingerprints using an Illinois State Police approved fingerprint card.
3. Non-Illinois Resident FOID Eligibility
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.
4. Minor Applicants (Applicants Younger Than 21)
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.
5. FOID Card Application Process
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 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.
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.
6. Renewing a FOID 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 at our website 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.
7. Cancellation and FOID Card Replacement
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 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?
NO. 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.
8. Active Military Applicants (Fee Exemption)
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.
01. CCL Overview
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 checkes, or money orders are not accepted.
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.
02. CCL Eligibility
What are the qualifications for a CCL?
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.
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.
03. CCL Application Process
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.
04. Fingerprints
Where can I go to get fingerprinted?
A list of licensed live scan fingerprint vendors is available here.

This list is all inclusive. Accordingly, any vendor not on this list is not a licensed Illinois live scan vendor. Fingerprints from non-licensed vendors will not be accepted.. This list is all inclusive. Accordingly, any vendor not on this list is not a licensed Illinois Live Scan vendor for CCL purposes. Prints from non-licensed vendors will not be accepted.
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.
05. CCL Renewal Applications
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.
06. CCL Replacement and Cancellation
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 our 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 our 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, but now I need to renew my CCL? Should I change my name/address first?
Currently, you CAN change your address during a CCL renewal. You CANNOT change your name during a CCL renewal.
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 our 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.
07. Training
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.
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.
Who decides whether to give credit for prior training and how much to give?
The ISP and certified firearms instructors shall recognize up to 8 hours of training already completed toward the 16 hour training requirement. Pursuant to the discretion granted within the statute regarding the proficiency of trainees, instructors must verify the prior training and can, within their discretion, determine the need for further training on a case by case basis. The Department maintains a list of approved curricula here to guide individual instructors with this decision. Two different four-hour classes from the list of approved curricula may be combined for up to eight hours of prior training credit.
If a person receives prior training credit, what are they required to take in addition to fulfill the 16 hour training requirement under the Act?
Any remaining hours that the applicant completes must at least cover applicable State and Federal Laws Relating to the Ownership, Storage, Carry and Transportation of a Firearm Instruction as well as Weapons Handling as defined in the statute and administrative rules. The Instructor shall verify the aggregate number of hours for which the applicant provided proof of instruction in Firearms Safety, Basic Principles of Marksmanship, and Care, Cleaning, Loading and Unloading of a Concealable Firearm, based upon a list provided by the Department of accepted training courses, and provide the necessary additional hours of training to equal 16. Applicants must meet the minimums set out in the 16-hour curriculum. The instructor will need to assess and verify the areas on which the applicant was previously trained and modify the blocks of instruction in sections 1, 2, and 3 to cover the remaining requirements. Sections 4 and 5 should remain unaltered.
Will the Department of Natural Resources' hunter safety classes be approved training?
Yes. The instructor has the ability to apply four hours of credit for the Hunter Safety class.
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.
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."
My application was rejected because I did not have a training certificate, what does this mean?
If a person submits an application 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.
08. Instructor Applicants
Can anyone who has taken any class become an instructor?
No. Only persons who have a valid firearm instructor certification as required by the Act can become an approved instructor.
Can out of state residents become a Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor?
Yes. The Illinois Firearm Concealed Carry Act, 430 ILCS 66/80, sets forth the qualifications to be a firearms instructor.
What are the qualifications to become a Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor?
A person seeking to become a certified Illinois Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor shall:
  • be at least 21 years of age;
  • be a legal resident of the United States and qualified for a Concealed Carry License in Illinois;
  • possess a high school diploma or GED certificate; and,
  • have at least one of the following valid firearms instructor certifications:
    • certification from a law enforcement agency;
    • certification from a firearm instructor course offered by a state or federal governmental agency;
    • certification from a firearm instructor course offered by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board; or
    • certification from an entity approved by the Illinois State Police that offers firearm instructor education and training in the use and safety of firearms.
How can I register as a Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor?
The ISP has established administrative rules consistent with the Firearm Concealed Carry Act. A link to the instructor approval application is available here.
Why do Instructor Applicants have to pay a fee for the fingerprint based background check?
Fees for fingerprint based background checks are set pursuant to state and federal law. The ISP cannot charge more than the fees required by law.
Why does the instructor application ask for my business name?
Some instructors have indicated they believe applicants will be looking for business names on the registry rather than just instructor names, There is no requirement for the field to be completed if the individual instructor is not associated with a business.
Upon submitting my application, how do I know ISP received my application and how will I be informed whether I have been approved?
Upon hitting "Submit" you should receive a confirmation page. Once the ISP makes a decision about your application, you will be notified by letter via U.S. Mail.
09. Training Curriculum
If a business or one or more Instructors are teaching from the same curriculum, are all instructors using the curriculum required to submit it to the ISP for approval?
No, once curriculum is approved and listed on the ISP's website as approved curriculum, any approved instructor with access to the curriculum may use it.
Is there a list of approved curricula?
To view approved courses, click here.
Once the curriculum is listed as approved, must it be taught by an approved instructor in order for the applicants to get credit for the training?
Yes, approved curriculum must be taught by an approved instructor. However, people who qualify for up to 8 hours of credit for prior training need not have been trained by an approved instructor.
10. Out of State Residents
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.
11. Denials and Appeals
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.
12. Business and Property Owners
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.
13. Enforcement
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.
14. Miscellaneous
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.
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.
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 CarryLicense 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.
I heard about the Combo (FOID/CCL) eCard. What is an eCard?
All cardholders can log into our website via their smartphone, tablet, or other mobile device and, by clicking the "My eCard" button on the left, view their most recent card. The eCard communicates the status of your FOID/CCL in real time and looks like the new Combo card. Cardholders will be able to display the new Combo eCard (for themselves, law enforcement or firearm dealers) even before they physically have a new card. When viewed online, everyone's eCard will look like a Combo card. For example, all CCL holders will see the new Combo card with a "CCL: Yes" indicator. All FOID-only cardholders will see a Combo card with a "CCL: No" indicator. If the CCL is expired but the FOID is still valid, the viewer will see a "CCL: No" indicator. If the FOID is expired, the viewer will see "EXPIRED" stamped across the front of the eCard.