Concealed Carry in Illinois
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Illinois requires a Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card and a concealed carry license issued by the state police.
How Illinois treats Concealed Carry
Illinois mandates that all gun owners first obtain a FOID card, which requires a background check and takes several weeks to process. Beyond the FOID, concealed carry requires a separate license issued by the Illinois State Police under a "shall-issue" framework, meaning the state must grant licenses to qualified applicants. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and pass a background check. The state charges fees for both the FOID card and the concealed carry license.
The general definition of Concealed Carry
The legal right to carry a hidden firearm in public, typically requiring a permit.
Concealed carry refers to carrying a firearm on your person in a hidden manner in public spaces. Most states require you to obtain a permit from law enforcement before you can legally concealed carry, though some states allow it without a permit. Requirements vary significantly by state and include background checks, training courses, and fees. Concealed carry laws balance Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns and differ dramatically from state to state.
Read the full Concealed Carry entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.