If you are going to carry a concealed weapon, it is your responsibility to recognize and respect the laws of the state that you are in. Whether you are an Illinois resident or traveling through the Land of Lincoln, you must stay within state laws so you don’t land in legal trouble.
Note: This article is for general information only and should not be taken as legal advice. Laws will change overtime, so always stay informed on current regulations.
Concealed-Carry Laws in Illinois
Among firearms proponents, Illinois is often considered one of the worst states for gun rights in the country, which means you need to be extremely diligent, especially if you are traveling through the state with your weapon.
According to the NRA, which maintains a large database of state firearms laws, people wishing to purchase a firearm must have a Firearms Owner Identification card, usually called an “FOID.” Potential gun owners will need this when purchasing any firearm or ammunition in Illinois.
To be given an FOID, you must meet certain conditions, including age (21 or older), a clean background checks, and free of specific convictions, especially convictions involving violent offenses.
According to Handgunlaws.us, Illinois does not honor any other state’s concealed-carry permit or license. This means that if you have a concealed-carry permit for, say, Kentucky, and carry a concealed weapon into Illinois, you are committing a criminal offense. However, a non-resident is permitted to possess a firearm without proper permits if it is unloaded and enclosed in a case.
This is just a broad overview of the concealed-carry laws and firearms regulations in Illinois. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, make sure you understand and respect Illinois laws thoroughly so you don’t find yourself in legal trouble. And no matter where you live, it’s your duty to be a safe, legal, and responsible gun owner.
