Illinois is known for having some of the most comprehensive gun laws in the United States. Gun laws in Illinois have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the state’s commitment to balancing Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns.
From strict licensing requirements to bans on certain firearms and accessories, the Illinois state has implemented various measures to address gun violence and ensure responsible gun ownership.
Understanding these Illinois state Gun laws is crucial for anyone residing in or visiting Illinois.
This article provides an in-depth look at Illinois’ gun laws as of 2025, including recent legislative updates, essential information for residents and visitors alike.
Gun Laws In Illinois A Comprehensive Guide
Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card
In Illinois, individuals must possess a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card to legally acquire or possess firearms and ammunition. The FOID card is issued by the Illinois State Police and serves as a foundational requirement for gun ownership in the state.
Eligibility Criteria
To obtain a FOID card, applicants must meet specific criteria:
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Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Individuals under 21 may apply with parental consent, provided the parent or guardian is eligible for a FOID card themselves.
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Criminal Background: Applicants must not have any felony convictions or certain misdemeanor offenses, particularly those involving violence or firearms.
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Mental Health Status: Individuals with a history of mental illness, institutionalization, or those deemed a danger to themselves or others are ineligible.
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Substance Abuse: Applicants must not be addicted to narcotics or have a history of substance abuse.
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Residency: Applicants must be residents of Illinois, with limited exceptions for certain non-residents, such as law enforcement officers assigned to Illinois.
Application Process
The application process for a FOID card involves:
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Online Application: Applicants must complete an online application through the Illinois State Police website, providing personal information and answering eligibility questions.
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Photograph Submission: A recent, passport-style photograph is required.
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Payment of Fees: A non-refundable fee is charged for processing the application.
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Background Check: The Illinois State Police conducts a thorough background check, reviewing criminal records, mental health history, and other relevant information.
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Processing Time: By law, the Illinois State Police must approve or deny a FOID application within 30 days. However, processing times may vary.
Concealed Carry License (CCL)
In addition to the FOID card, Illinois requires individuals to obtain a Concealed Carry License (CCL) to legally carry a concealed firearm in public. The CCL is also issued by the Illinois State Police and involves a more rigorous application process.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a CCL, applicants must:
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Age Requirement: Be at least 21 years old.
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FOID Card: Possess a valid FOID card.
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Training: Complete 16 hours of firearms training from a state-approved instructor, which includes classroom instruction and live-fire exercises.
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Criminal Background: Have no felony convictions or certain misdemeanor offenses, particularly those involving violence or firearms.
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Mental Health Status: Not have been adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution.
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Substance Abuse: Not be addicted to narcotics or have a history of substance abuse.
Application Process
The CCL application process includes:
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Online Application: Applicants must complete an online application through the Illinois State Police website.
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Training Certification: Submission of proof of completed firearms training.
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Fingerprinting: While optional, submitting fingerprints can expedite the background check process.
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Payment of Fees: A non-refundable fee is charged for processing the application.
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Background Check: A comprehensive background check is conducted, including criminal records, mental health history, and other relevant information.
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Processing Time: The Illinois State Police must approve or deny a CCL application within 90 days (or 120 days if fingerprints are not submitted).
Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Magazines
Illinois has implemented strict regulations concerning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines to enhance public safety.
Assault Weapons Ban
The Protect Illinois Communities Act, signed into law on January 10, 2023, prohibits the sale, manufacture, and distribution of assault weapons in the state. The law defines assault weapons based on specific features, including:
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Semi-Automatic Rifles: With detachable magazines and features such as pistol grips, folding or telescoping stocks, or flash suppressors.
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Semi-Automatic Pistols: With detachable magazines and features like threaded barrels or barrel shrouds.
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Shotguns: With revolving cylinders or other specific characteristics.
Individuals who legally possessed assault weapons before the law’s enactment were required to register them with the Illinois State Police by January 1, 2024.
High-Capacity Magazines
The law also bans the sale and possession of high-capacity magazines, defined as:
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Rifle Magazines: Capable of holding more than 10 rounds.
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Handgun Magazines: Capable of holding more than 15 rounds.
Exceptions are made for law enforcement officers and military personnel.
Firearm Transfers and Background Checks
Illinois mandates comprehensive background checks for all firearm transfers, including private sales.
Private Sales
Private sellers must verify the buyer’s FOID card and obtain approval from the Illinois State Police before transferring a firearm. This process involves contacting the state police to confirm the validity of the buyer’s FOID card and receiving a transfer approval number.
Dealer Sales
Licensed firearm dealers are required to:
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Conduct Background Checks: Utilize the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and state databases.
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Observe Waiting Periods: Enforce a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between the purchase and delivery of a firearm.
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Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of all firearm sales and transfers.
Firearm Restraining Orders (FROs)
Illinois law allows for the issuance of Firearm Restraining Orders (FROs), also known as “red flag” laws, to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others.
Petition Process
Family members, household members, or law enforcement officers can petition a court for an FRO. The petitioner must provide evidence that the individual poses a significant danger by possessing a firearm.
Order Duration
FROs can be issued for up to six months, with the possibility of renewal. During this period, the individual is prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms and must surrender any firearms in their possession.
Prohibited Persons
Certain individuals are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms in Illinois, including:
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Felons: Individuals convicted of felony offenses.
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Domestic Violence Offenders: Those convicted of domestic battery or subject to protective orders.
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Mentally Ill Individuals: Persons adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to mental institutions.
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Substance Abusers: Individuals addicted to narcotics or with a history of substance abuse.
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Minors: Individuals under 18 years old, with limited exceptions.
Transportation and Storage of Firearms
Illinois law outlines specific requirements for the transportation and storage of firearms:
Transportation
When transporting firearms without a concealed carry license, individuals must ensure that firearms are:
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Unloaded: Firearms must not be loaded.
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Enclosed: Firearms must be enclosed in a case, firearm carrying box, shipping box, or other container.
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Inaccessible: Firearms must not be immediately accessible or within reach of the driver or passengers.
Storage
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Not Immediately Accessible: Firearms must be stored in a location that is not immediately accessible to the driver or any passengers, such as the trunk of a vehicle.
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Ammunition Storage: Ammunition should be stored separately from the firearm, though it may be transported in the same case as long as it is not loaded into the firearm.
Exceptions
Concealed Carry License holders are permitted to carry loaded firearms on their person or in their vehicles, provided the firearm remains concealed from view and under the individual’s control.
Gun-Free Zones in Illinois
Illinois law designates specific areas as “gun-free zones,” where carrying a firearm is prohibited, even with a valid Concealed Carry License.
Common Gun-Free Zones Include:
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Schools: All K-12 public and private schools, including school buses and events.
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Government Buildings: Courthouses, city halls, police stations, and other government offices.
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Public Transportation: Buses, trains, and transit stations operated by entities like the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA).
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Bars and Restaurants: Establishments deriving more than 50% of their revenue from alcohol sales.
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Parks and Playgrounds: Public parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas.
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Hospitals and Mental Health Facilities: Including nursing homes and clinics.
Violations of gun-free zone restrictions can lead to criminal charges and revocation of the individual’s Concealed Carry License.
Recent Legislative Updates (2024–2025)
Strengthened Assault Weapons Ban
As of 2024, Illinois expanded the list of prohibited features and firearms under the assault weapons ban. Additionally, the registration deadline for previously owned assault weapons was strictly enforced, and failure to comply could result in felony charges.
Enhanced Background Check System
In 2025, Illinois integrated additional state and federal databases into its FOID and CCL background checks to improve detection of disqualifying factors, particularly mental health and domestic violence records.
Mandatory Firearm Safety Training in Schools
In an effort to promote gun safety, a new law requires public high schools to offer non-firing firearm safety education as part of their health curriculum, beginning with the 2025–2026 academic year.
Penalties for Violations
Violating Illinois gun laws can result in serious consequences:
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Unlawful Possession of a Firearm: Class 4 felony, punishable by 1 to 3 years in prison.
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Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW): Can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the circumstances (e.g., carrying in a prohibited area).
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Possession of an Unregistered Assault Weapon: Class 3 felony, punishable by 2 to 5 years in prison.
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Possession of a Firearm Without a FOID Card: Misdemeanor or felony, depending on prior offenses and context.
Convictions can also result in permanent revocation of the FOID or CCL and the loss of firearm ownership rights.
Gun Laws In Illinois(FAQs)
1. Can non-residents carry a concealed firearm in Illinois?
Non-residents can apply for a Non-Resident Concealed Carry License if they reside in a state with substantially similar firearm laws. However, Illinois does not recognize concealed carry permits from other states.
2. Can I open carry a firearm in Illinois?
No. Open carry of firearms is illegal in Illinois, except on private property or while hunting with the appropriate license.
3. Can I own a suppressor in Illinois?
No. Suppressors (silencers) are illegal for civilian ownership in Illinois.
4. What happens if my FOID card is revoked?
You must surrender all firearms and ammunition to law enforcement or transfer them to a valid FOID cardholder. Failure to comply may result in criminal charges.
5. Are antique firearms regulated the same as modern firearms?
Antique firearms that are incapable of firing modern ammunition are generally exempt from FOID requirements, but it’s advisable to verify specific details with the Illinois State Police.
6. How long is a FOID card valid?
A FOID card is valid for 10 years, while a Concealed Carry License is valid for 5 years. Renewal must be completed before expiration to avoid a lapse in legal firearm ownership.
7. Can I legally own a firearm if I have a medical marijuana card?
No. Federal law prohibits firearm possession by individuals using federally illegal substances, including marijuana—even if use is legal under Illinois law.
Conclusion
Illinois gun laws are among the most stringent in the country, designed to promote responsible gun ownership and reduce gun violence.
Understanding the requirements for FOID cards, Concealed Carry Licenses, restrictions on assault weapons, and transport laws is essential for all gun owners in the state.
Compliance with these laws not only ensures legal firearm possession but also contributes to community safety. As gun laws continue to evolve, staying informed is critical for lawful and responsible gun ownership in Illinois