Illinois Concealed Carry Classes

Ultimate Guide to Illinois Concealed Carry Classes

The right to carry a concealed firearm is about more than personal safety. It also involves responsible ownership and following the law. Obtaining a Concealed Carry License (CCL) in Illinois involves specific training and knowledge. This page is your complete guide to Illinois Concealed Carry Classes. It is for those starting or renewing their license. Learn about course structures, requirements, legal insights, and how to choose the right training for your needs.

Illinois Concealed Carry Classes Overview

What Are Concealed Carry Classes?

Concealed carry classes in Illinois are training programs. They teach firearm safety, handling, and legal responsibilities. These classes are for people who want to carry a concealed weapon. These classes help students learn the law. They also show how to shoot well. Students will gain skills for responsible gun ownership.

Why Are These Classes Required?

The Illinois State Police mandates concealed carry training to ensure:

• Public safety and lawful firearm use.
• Proper handling and storage of firearms.
• Understanding of Illinois firearm laws and use-of-force regulations.

Class Requirements for Illinois Concealed Carry

To enroll in our Illinois Concealed Carry class, make sure you meet these requirements:

• You must be at least 21 years old.

Veterans with DD214 Receive Special Consideration

We honor our veterans. If you have a DD214, you’re eligible for special discounts and benefits as part of our program. We believe in giving back to those who have served, ensuring you get the best possible training at a reduced cost.

Valid in 27 States – Maximize Your Coverage

When you finish our Illinois Concealed Carry Training class, you can get a concealed carry permit. This permit is currently valid in 29 states. That means you can travel with confidence, knowing your permit has wide-ranging acceptance.

Illinois Concealed Carry Requirements

Who Can Apply for a Concealed Carry License?

To qualify for a CCL, applicants must meet these criteria:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Possess a valid Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) card.
• Have no felony convictions or pending charges.
• Have not been in substance abuse treatment or mental health facilities within the past five years.

Required Documentation

Applicants will need:

• A valid FOID card.
• Proof of residency in Illinois.
• Evidence of completing the required training.

Illinois Concealed Carry Renewal Application Status

After you complete your 3-hour Illinois Concealed Carry Renewal class, you must send your renewal application. This application goes to the Illinois State Police. You can check the status of your application through their Firearms Services Bureau portal. This portal shows if your application is being reviewed or approved. It also tells you if you need to take more steps.

To track your application:

1. Log in to your account on the Illinois State Police Firearms Services website.
2. Navigate to the “Application Status” section.
3. Review the progress of your renewal.

It’s a good idea to check back regularly until you receive approval. Processing times may vary, so starting early ensures you don’t experience a lapse in your concealed carry privileges.

Courses Offered

16-Hour Illinois Concealed Carry Program

This comprehensive program is split into two parts:

Day 1: Foundational Firearm Knowledge

• Basics of firearm safety and handling.
• Mechanics of various handgun types.
• Ammunition types and storage best practices.

Day 2: Concealed Carry-Specific Training

• Illinois firearm laws, including 720 ILCS 5/7-1 to 5/7-3 on use of force.
• Conflict de-escalation strategies.
• Concealment techniques and holster selection.
• Live-fire qualification (30 rounds at 5, 7, and 10 yards).

3-Hour Renewal Class

Designed for those renewing their licenses, this course includes:

• Updates on Illinois firearm laws.
• Review of use-of-force scenarios.
• Live-fire requalification.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your Illinois CCL

1. Complete Training: Enroll in the required 16-hour course or the 3-hour renewal class.
2. Apply Online: Visit the Illinois State Police website to submit your application.
3. Provide Documentation: Upload your training certificate and proof of residency.
4. Pay Fees: The application fee is $150 for residents.
5. Background Check: Wait for the Illinois State Police to complete a thorough review.

Topics Covered in Concealed Carry Classes

The Illinois Concealed Carry class ensures you are well-prepared to continue carrying legally and responsibly. Topics covered include:

• What is considered a concealed weapon?
  

  Picture of the “no concealed gun” sign

• Where you can carry a concealed weapon.
• How to Travel/Fly with your firearm
• When you can use a weapon to defend yourself or someone else.
• 720 ILCS 5/7-1. Use of Force in defense of a person.
• 720 ILCS 5/7-2. Use of Force in defense of a dwelling.
• 720 ILCS 5/7-3. Use of Force in defense of property.
• 720 ILCS 24/1. Unlawful use of a weapon.
• 430 ILCS 66/10 (h) Interaction with Law Enforcement…
• Use of Deadly Force
• Mental Awareness
• Psycological and physiological changes to the body during a violent attack.
• Safe firearm handling practices.
• Techniques to pass the required shooting test.
• A step-by-step guide to completing the renewal application.
• Common mistakes to avoid during the renewal process.

Illinois State Reciprocity

If you frequently travel, it’s essential to know where your Illinois Concealed Carry License is recognized. We’ll explain which states honor your license through reciprocity agreements, so you can carry your firearm legally across state lines. This is particularly important for anyone planning to travel while carrying.

Where You Can Legally Carry in Illinois

During the Illinois Concealed Carry class, we also teach you where you are allowed to carry your firearm legally. Certain locations, such as schools, government buildings, and establishments that serve alcohol, are off-limits. Knowing where you can legally carry your firearm helps you avoid legal trouble and ensures responsible carry at all times.

Electronic Fingerprints for Illinois CCL

We do electronic fingerprints. The cost for our students is $50. Electronic fingerprints are not required; however, it does speed up the process of receiving your license as well as helps to differentiate between people who have the same name. We stop doing fingerprints 30 minutes before closing time so please plan accordingly.

Shooting Qualification

You must pass a shooting qualification test for your Illinois Concealed Carry License. Here’s what it entails:

• Ammunition Required: 30 rounds
• Target: Standard B-27 silhouette target
• Shooting Distances:
  • 10 rounds at 5 yards
  • 10 rounds at 7 yards
  • 10 rounds at 10 yards

To pass, you need to score at least 70%. You must hit the target at least 21 times out of 30 rounds. Your shots should land within the target’s outer 16″ x 22″ (7) ring. Note that this is not from the holster.

What are the implications of not achieving a passing grade??

If you do not meet the qualification requirements, you need to arrange to take the test again. We offer the Mastering the Fundamentals class or a private instruction session before attempting the qualification again.

Why Choose Red Dot Arms for Your Training?

• Experienced Instructors: Our team of NRA-certified professionals ensures top-notch training.
• Convenient Scheduling: Flexible class times to suit busy schedules.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: From beginners to renewal candidates, our courses cover all aspects of firearm safety and concealed carry.

Call to Action

Ready to take the next step? Register today for Illinois Concealed Carry Classes and join the thousands of responsible firearm owners trained by Red Dot Arms Training Academy.