Illinois Gun Laws - 2026 Complete Guide

Last verified: 2026-01-01 | Not legal advice - verify with your state AG

Prohibited Permit Required No Castle Doctrine Red Flag Law

⚠️ This is not legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Always verify current laws with your state attorney general or a licensed firearms attorney before carrying.

Quick Reference: Illinois Gun Laws

Open Carry	Prohibited
Concealed Carry	Permit Required
Permit Required	Yes - required
Permit Cost	$150
Permit Validity	5 years
Waiting Period	3 days
Background Check	Required
Castle Doctrine	✕ No
Stand Your Ground	✕ No
Red Flag Law	✕ Yes (ERPO exists)
Magazine Limit	None
Suppressors	Prohibited
NFA Items	Restricted

Open Carry Laws in Illinois

Open carry is prohibited in Illinois in most public places. There may be limited exceptions for transport to and from a range or for active law enforcement officers.

Concealed Carry Laws in Illinois

Concealed carry in Illinois requires a valid permit. Illinois requires a FOID card (Firearm Owners Identification) for all gun owners, plus a Concealed Carry License (CCL) for carry. 16 hours of training required. $150 fee, 5-year license.

Where You Cannot Carry in Illinois

The following locations generally prohibit firearms carry in Illinois. This list is not exhaustive - always verify current law before carrying in any location.

Schools
Government Buildings
Courts
Police Stations
Jails
Hospitals
Parks
Libraries
Airports
Public Transit
Playgrounds
Bars
Stadiums
Any Building With Posted Sign

Federal law also prohibits carry in federal buildings, national parks ranger stations, and other federal facilities regardless of state law.

Getting a Illinois CCW Permit

Illinois requires a FOID card (Firearm Owners Identification) for all gun owners, plus a Concealed Carry License (CCL) for carry. 16 hours of training required. $150 fee, 5-year license.

Official Illinois Permit Information

CCW Reciprocity for Illinois

States that honor your Illinois permit (0)

None

Illinois honors permits from (0)

None

View Full CCW Reciprocity Map

Reciprocity agreements change frequently. Always verify current reciprocity with the issuing state's law enforcement agency before traveling. Some states have additional requirements beyond permit reciprocity.

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Illinois Gun Law Cheat Sheet - Free PDF

Download our one-page quick reference for Illinois gun laws. Open carry rules, carry restrictions, permit info, and CCW reciprocity at a glance. Keep it in your range bag.

Frequently Asked Questions: Illinois Gun Laws

What is a FOID card in Illinois?

The Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card is required to own or possess a firearm or ammunition in Illinois. Apply through the Illinois State Police.

Does Illinois honor any other state's CCW permits?

No. Illinois does not recognize any out-of-state concealed carry permits.

Can I open carry in Illinois?

No. Open carry of handguns is prohibited in Illinois except on your own property.

Does Illinois have a red flag law?

Yes. Illinois has a Firearms Restraining Order (FRO) law that allows family members and law enforcement to petition courts to remove firearms.

Shooting Ranges in Illinois

Find pistol ranges, rifle ranges, and indoor/outdoor shooting facilities in Illinois. Filter by type, features, and location.

Find Ranges in Illinois

Neighboring State Gun Laws