CARRY STATUS
CONCEALED101MIDWEST REGION · IL
Illinois
Concealed Carry Guide
Illinois generally requires an Illinois concealed carry license to carry a concealed handgun. Firearm Owner's Identification requirements may also apply separately.
Before you rely on this guide
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. Eligibility, restricted locations, local rules, court orders, and reciprocity can change. Confirm the current law with the official agencies linked on this page.
AT A GLANCE
Illinois carry overview
STATE PERMIT
Available
ISSUING AUTHORITY
Illinois State Police
LAST REVIEWED
August 16, 2026
01
PERMIT AND CARRY STATUS
What the statewide framework says
Illinois generally requires an Illinois concealed carry license to carry a concealed handgun. Firearm Owner's Identification requirements may also apply separately.
02
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Training before an application
Initial applicants must complete the state-required curriculum and live-fire qualification with an approved instructor. Renewals have their own training requirement.
Practical next step: Ask the issuing authority whether your instructor, course format, certificate, and live-fire qualification satisfy the current application rules before paying for a class.
Browse training in Illinois →03
NONRESIDENTS AND TRAVEL
Crossing a state line changes the rules
Illinois accepts nonresident applications only from residents of states it determines have substantially similar laws. Check the current eligible-state list before applying.
Reciprocity caution: Recognition of a permit does not make every rule identical. Vehicle carry, notice signs, prohibited places, duty to inform, alcohol-related locations, and magazine or firearm restrictions may differ.
VERIFY WITH PRIMARY SOURCES
Official Illinois references
Use these sources for current application forms, eligibility language, statutory changes, and agency notices.