Gun Laws In Illinois

1. Firearm Ownership and Licensing

Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card: All Illinois residents who want to own or purchase firearms or ammunition must obtain a FOID card issued by the Illinois State Police (ISP).
- The FOID card application involves a background check and is required for purchasing, possessing, or transferring firearms within the state.
- Application Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if under 21), have no disqualifying criminal record, and pass mental health criteria.
- Renewal: The FOID card must be renewed every 10 years. FOID cardholders must notify the ISP within 30 days of any address or status change.

2. Concealed Carry Licensing (CCL)

Concealed Carry License (CCL): Illinois allows concealed carry with a license. Open carry is prohibited in public.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete an approved 16-hour training course, and pass a background check.
- Training Requirements: The course includes firearms safety, handling, and live-fire qualification. Certain individuals with military training may qualify for reduced training requirements.
- Renewal and Refresher: CCL licenses are valid for five years. Renewal requires a 3-hour refresher course and a new application with a background check.
- Restricted Locations: Concealed carry is prohibited in many public areas, including schools, government buildings, public transit, and parks. Firearms must be stored in a locked container in restricted zones.

3. Types of Firearms Permitted

Handguns, Rifles, and Shotguns: Legal for ownership with a valid FOID card, provided they meet Illinois’ restrictions on types and configurations.
Assault Weapons: The state restricts ownership of certain semi-automatic firearms, commonly classified as “assault weapons.”
- Specific restrictions on assault-style firearms vary by local jurisdictions. For instance, the City of Chicago and Cook County have bans on specific firearms models and high-capacity magazines.
Magazine Capacity: Local laws restrict magazine capacity in certain areas. Cook County prohibits magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.

4. Background Checks and Waiting Periods

Background Checks: All firearm sales, including private transactions, must go through a federally licensed dealer (FFL) for a background check.
Waiting Period: Illinois has a mandatory waiting period for all firearm purchases:
- Handguns: 72-hour waiting period.
- Long Guns (rifles and shotguns): 24-hour waiting period.
These waiting periods apply to purchases made at FFLs and private sellers.

5. Prohibited Persons

Individuals Restricted from Firearm Ownership: Illinois prohibits firearm possession for individuals with felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions involving violence, or history of mental illness.
Other restrictions apply to individuals with outstanding warrants, known substance abuse issues, and those under active restraining orders.

6. Transportation of Firearms

General Transport Rules: Firearms may be transported in vehicles if they are unloaded, enclosed in a case, and not immediately accessible.
Concealed Carry License Holders: CCL holders are allowed to transport a loaded, concealed firearm on their person or in their vehicle, but must still follow restrictions on public and sensitive locations.
Transport for Non-Residents: Non-residents can transport firearms in Illinois as long as the firearm is unloaded, enclosed in a case, and not readily accessible. Non-residents carrying firearms in their vehicles must follow federal guidelines and respect local laws on firearm transport.

7. Ammunition Regulations

FOID Requirement: A FOID card is required to purchase ammunition in Illinois.
Prohibited Ammunition: Illinois prohibits the sale or use of armor-piercing ammunition, incendiary rounds, and explosive ammunition types.
Age Requirements: Ammo can only be purchased by individuals 21 years or older (or 18 with a valid FOID and parental permission for certain ammo types).

8. Firearm Storage and Safe Handling

Safe Storage Requirements: Illinois requires firearm owners to take reasonable measures to keep firearms out of reach of minors or unauthorized individuals.
Child Access Prevention: Gun owners can be held liable if a minor gains access to an unsecured firearm and causes harm. It’s recommended that all firearms be stored in a locked safe or secured with a trigger lock.
Lost or Stolen Firearms: Illinois requires FOID cardholders to report any lost or stolen firearms to the ISP within 72 hours of discovering the loss.

9. Penalties for Violations

Unlawful Possession: Possessing a firearm without a FOID card is a Class A misdemeanor for the first offense and a Class 3 felony for subsequent offenses.
Carrying Without a CCL: Carrying a concealed firearm without a license can result in significant legal penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and a permanent revocation of gun rights.
Failing to Report Lost or Stolen Firearms: Not reporting a lost or stolen firearm can lead to fines and other legal consequences.
Negligent Storage: If a minor or prohibited person accesses a firearm due to negligent storage, the owner may face criminal and civil penalties.

Final Thoughts

Illinois gun laws are complex and strictly enforced. For those who own or carry firearms in Illinois, it’s essential to stay informed about both state and local regulations, as areas like Chicago and Cook County have additional restrictions. Compliance with all licensing, transport, and storage requirements is critical to avoid legal issues. For the latest regulations or changes, consult the Illinois State Police and review any local ordinances, especially if traveling between jurisdictions within the state.