To obtain a firearm owner’s identification (FOID) card in Illinois, you must fill out an application online or by mail, pay the required fee, and pass a background check, including a fingerprint-based criminal history check.
Residents of Illinois who are at least 21 years old and have not been convicted of a felony or certain other offenses are eligible to apply for a FOID card.
You can apply for a FOID card online through the Illinois State Police website or by mailing in a paper application.
You will need to provide personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, and social security number, as well as information about any mental health conditions or disabilities that could affect your ability to safely handle a firearm.
The fee for a new FOID card is $10 for a 10-year card.
Applicants for a FOID card must pass a background check, including a fingerprint-based criminal history check.
The processing time for a FOID card application can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to receive a decision.
No, Illinois does not require firearms training as a prerequisite for obtaining a FOID card.
No, only residents of Illinois are eligible to apply for a FOID card.
Yes, if your FOID card application is denied, you can appeal the decision within 35 days of receiving the denial notice.
No, FOID cards are non-transferable and can only be used by the individual to whom they are issued.
No, it is illegal to possess a firearm in Illinois without a valid FOID card, with limited exceptions for non-resident hunters or competitive shooters.
Yes, a FOID card is valid for 10 years and must be renewed before it expires.
No, individuals with a revoked FOID card are prohibited from possessing firearms in Illinois.
It depends on the nature of the misdemeanor conviction. Some misdemeanor offenses may disqualify you from obtaining a FOID card.
Possessing a firearm without a valid FOID card in Illinois is a serious offense and can result in criminal charges.
5/5 - (49 vote) Categories FAQMike is a US Army veteran who spent 15 years as an international security contractor after leaving the military. During that time, he spent 2½ years in Iraq as well as working assignments in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jordan, Israel, the Palestinian West Bank, Kenya, and Cairo among others. He is proud of his service to his country.
Mike is retired and currently lives in rural Virginia with his wife Steffi, who he met in Europe on one of his many overseas trips. He enjoys writing, shooting sports, and playing video games.
