Firearm ownership in Illinois, especially in Chicago, can feel like a maze of paperwork, regulations, and ever-changing rules. Whether you’re looking to carry a concealed handgun for personal protection, own a shotgun for home defense, or purchase a rifle for sport shooting, it’s crucial to understand what’s legal, what’s required, and where to start.

This guide breaks it all down: the licensing steps, training options, costs, and legal responsibilities that come with owning and carrying firearms in Chicago and across Illinois. It’s everything you need to make informed, legal, and safe decisions, and a clear look at how Concealed Carry Safety for Personal Defense, Inc. (CCSPD) in Niles, IL, can guide you every step of the way.

Understanding Firearms in Chicago

Handguns, Rifles & Shotguns: What’s the Legal Difference?

In Illinois, the only type of firearm you can legally carry in public (with a permit) is a handgun. Rifles and shotguns can be owned with the proper licensing, but concealed or open carry of long guns is strictly prohibited. Transporting them legally is also tightly regulated.

Despite Illinois law superseding local laws on most firearm regulations, Chicago enforces stricter penalties and thorough enforcement of state gun laws. That’s why proper education and training aren’t just helpful, they’re essential.

Step-by-Step: Getting a Concealed Carry License for Handguns in Illinois

1. Who’s Eligible to Apply?

To qualify for a concealed carry license (CCL) in Illinois, you must:

• Be 21 years or older

• Have a valid Illinois State ID or Driver’s License

• Possess (or be eligible to receive) a FOID card

• Be physically capable of safely handling a firearm

• Not be prohibited from owning a firearm under state or federal law

• Be able to read, understand, and speak English (as required for training at CCSPD)

2. FOID Card: Your First Step

Before you can own or purchase any firearm or ammunition in Illinois or apply for a concealed carry license, you need a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. This is issued by the Illinois State Police and typically takes several weeks to process.

You do not need your FOID card in hand to take the concealed carry training course at CCSPD, but you will need it to apply for the license itself.

3. The Mandatory 16-Hour Training Course

The Illinois State Police requires 16 hours of approved training before you can apply for a CCL. This includes:

• Firearm safety and handling

• Illinois firearm laws

• Proper use of force

• Live-fire qualification at a gun range

CCSPD offers the complete 16-hour course, taught by certified instructor and retired law enforcement officer Marc Jens. You can complete the training in two full days (Saturday and Sunday), or break it up into four 4-hour sessions to fit your schedule.

Training is available even if you don’t yet have a FOID card, as long as you’re eligible for one.

4. Course Pricing & Discounts at CCSPD

CCSPD believes in transparent pricing; no hidden fees, no gimmicks. You’ll always know what you’re paying for, and you’ll get real value from highly qualified instruction.

Here’s what you can expect:

Additional Costs:

• Range Fee: $25

• Firearm Maintenance Fee: $10

• State CCL Application Fee: ~$150

• Optional Fingerprinting (recommended): ~$55–70 (done through a third-party)

Discounts are available for:

• Veterans and active military (50% off standard course prices with documentation)

• Firefighters and first responders

• CCSPD alumni receive discounted pricing on future advanced courses

5. Applying for Your Concealed Carry License

Once you’ve completed the training, applying for your CCL involves:

1. Submitting an application to the Illinois State Police via their website

2. Paying the application fee (~$150)

3. Uploading your training certificate

4. Submitting fingerprints (optional, but helps shorten the wait)

Without fingerprints, the state has up to 120 days to issue your license. With fingerprints, that wait drops to about 90 days.

6. Legal Concealed Carry in Chicago: What You Need to Know

Chicago is one of the most heavily policed cities when it comes to gun laws, so carrying legally and responsibly is non-negotiable.

Where You Can’t Carry Even With a CCL:

• Public transportation (buses, trains)

• Schools, government buildings, and libraries

• Bars and establishments where more than 50% of revenue comes from alcohol

• Stadiums, casinos, amusement parks

• Hospitals and nursing homes

Signage matters: If you see a sign indicating “no firearms allowed,” you are legally obligated to comply, even with a license.

Other Important Rules:

• You must carry your CCL license with you whenever carrying concealed.

• Your firearm must remain concealed at all times. Open carry is illegal throughout Illinois.

• You cannot handle or brandish your firearm in public unless legally justified under self-defense laws.

Knowing these rules isn’t just about staying legal; it’s about protecting your rights as a responsible gun owner. That’s why CCSPD emphasizes legal education as much as practical training.

7. Owning Shotguns and Rifles in Chicago

While concealed carry licenses only apply to handguns, owning shotguns and rifles in Chicago is legal, with strict rules.

Requirements for Ownership:

• FOID card required for purchasing and possessing long guns

• No license needed for concealed carry because carrying rifles and shotguns in public (open or concealed) is illegal in Illinois

• Must be used only in legal environments such as private property, shooting ranges, or during regulated hunting activities

Legal Transport:

• Must be unloaded

• Must be enclosed in a case

• Ammunition should be stored separately unless transporting under specific exemptions (e.g., to/from a shooting range)

Training at CCSPD for Long Guns:

Even though you can’t carry them in public, training for shotguns and rifles is still critical, especially for home defense or sport shooting. CCSPD offers:

• Shotgun Orientation & Familiarization

• Basic Firearms Familiarization and Safety

• Advanced Tactical Handgun Skills (for those wanting to level up beyond the CCL)

8. Buying Firearms: FFL Transfers with CCSPD

Whether you’re buying a firearm online or out-of-state, you’ll need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer to legally take possession in Illinois.

CCSPD FFL Transfer Fees:

These prices include the required NICS background check. All transactions are cash-only, and a 3-day waiting period begins once paperwork is completed.

Bring your:

• FOID card

• State ID/Driver’s License

• Green Card (if applicable)

You must pick up your firearm promptly to avoid storage fees. ($2/day for handguns; $5/day for others)

9. Total Cost Breakdown: What to Expect

Tip: CCSPD also provides alumni pricing and free access to instructor advice even after your course is done, a valuable benefit for new and experienced firearm owners.

10. Why Train with CCSPD in Niles, IL

• Led by Marc Jens, a retired law enforcement instructor with 20+ years of firearms training experience

• Certified by the Illinois State Police

• Offers flexible scheduling. You can mix and match morning, evening, and weekend sessions

• Includes everything from beginner safety to advanced tactical training

• Personal, professional, and always committed to your safety and education

Ready to Start?

Concealed Carry Safety for Personal Defense, Inc. is here to walk you through every step, from FOID to firearm.

📍 Located at: 7609 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL
📞 Call: (847) 965-3600
🔗 View Classes & Register

Train smart. Stay safe. Carry legally.
Choose CCSPD because when it comes to firearms, training isn’t optional. It’s survival.