Multi-Day 2-Day Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL) Course

Whether you're new to owning a firearm or have had a gun for home defense for years, getting a concealed handgun permit may seem daunting - but it doesn't have to be. There are many reasons and ways to carry a concealed weapon, but the first step is knowing Illinois's concealed carry laws.

This course is the first step on your path to putting the safety and protection of yourself and your loved ones first.

We will discuss topics such as:

• Firearms safety
• Principles of marksmanship
• Care, cleaning, loading, and unloading of a concealable firearm
• All applicable Illinois and federal laws relating to the ownership, storage, carrying, and transportation of a firearm
• Instruction on the appropriate and lawful interaction with law enforcement while transporting or carrying a concealed firearm
• LIVE Q&A with USCCA Certified Instructors

The state of Illinois requires that new applicants complete a 16-hour firearms training course conducted by a state-approved instructor, a certificate from the instructor upon completion, as well as a live-fire component. Your instructor will provide detailed information about the live fire portion of this course upon registration.

Be sure to bring any snacks or drinks for the class as well as a pen and paper to take notes.

STATE REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN PERMIT

EDUCATION

• A 16-hour firearms training course conducted by a state-approved instructor is required for all new concealed carry license applications. 
• Non-resident licenses are only available for residents of Arkansas, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, Texas and Virginia. 
• In terms of reciprocity, Illinois does not honor CCW licenses from any other state.
• Illinois law requires residents to have a Firearm Owners Identification Card (FOID) to possess a firearm or ammunition.
• You may apply online for a FOID. If you have not used the online portal before, you will start by registering as a new user. Once that is complete, you will need the following:
• An Illinois-issued Driver’s License or State ID Card. 
• A passport-sized photo of yourself taken in the last 30 days
• Any necessary fees (there is a military fee exemption)

LIVE FIRE REQUIREMENT

• Proof of certification by a certified instructor that the applicant passed a live fire exercise with a concealable firearm consisting of:
• A minimum of 30 rounds
• 10 rounds from a distance of 5 yards
• 10 rounds from a distance of 7 yards
• 10 rounds from a distance of 10 yards at a target approved by DSP

FEES (there is a 2.25% ePay service fee)

• Initial License 
• Resident | $150
• Non-Resident | $300
• Renewals 
• Resident | $150
• Non-Resident | $300

DIRECTION TO APPLY

• Apply for a FOID - you will need the following documents:
• A Valid driver’s license or state identification card
• A head and shoulder electronic photograph taken within the last 30 days
• $10.00 payable with a credit card or electronic check
• Complete your firearms training course (this course fulfills this requirement).
• Once you have applied for and/or received your FOID card, complete the online application for a CC - you will need the following documents:
• For Residents
• A valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID
• An Illinois State Police user ID and password
• An electronic copy of your training certificate(s)
• A valid FOID or a FOID in process
• An electronic head and shoulders photo taken within the previous 30 days
• Provide the last 10 years of residency
• For Non-Residents
• An electronic copy of a valid concealed carry license from the applicant's home state 
• A notarized affidavit documenting the applicant’s eligibility under both state and federal laws