Illinois Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Which States Apply

Illinois has one of the most restrictive concealed carry reciprocity frameworks in the nation. The state does not honor concealed carry permits from any other state. This guide explains how reciprocity works in Illinois, options for non-residents, and what to know when traveling with firearms.^[1]

Illinois Does Not Recognize Other States' Permits

Under 430 ILCS 66, Illinois does not honor or recognize concealed carry permits, licenses, or authorizations issued by any other state. If you hold a concealed carry permit from Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri, or any other state, it carries no legal weight in Illinois. Carrying a concealed firearm in Illinois without an Illinois CCL is a criminal offense.^[2]

Non-Resident CCL

Illinois offers a non-resident Concealed Carry License under 430 ILCS 66/40. However, eligibility is limited. Non-residents may apply only if they are residents of a state that has firearms laws "substantially similar" to Illinois. The ISP determines which states qualify.^[3]

Non-Resident CCL Requirements

Must be a resident of a state with substantially similar firearms laws (as determined by ISP)
Must be at least 21 years of age
Must complete 16 hours of approved firearms training, including live-fire qualification
Must pass the FTIP background check
Application fee: $300 (double the $150 resident fee)
License valid for 5 years

The ISP publishes a list of states whose laws are deemed substantially similar. This list is subject to change. Because few states have firearms licensing systems comparable to Illinois's FOID/CCL framework, the number of qualifying states has historically been limited.^[1]

Options for Non-Residents Without a CCL

If you are a non-resident visiting or traveling through Illinois without an Illinois CCL, your options are limited:

Transport only: You may transport firearms through Illinois if they are unloaded and enclosed in a case, with ammunition stored separately
Shooting ranges: You may possess firearms at a licensed shooting range under the supervision of a FOID card holder
You may not carry a loaded firearm on your person or in your vehicle while in Illinois

Federal FOPA Protection

The federal Firearms Owners Protection Act (FOPA) provides a limited safe harbor for interstate transport. Under FOPA, a person traveling from one state where they may lawfully possess a firearm to another such state may transport the firearm through Illinois if:^[4]

The firearm is unloaded and not readily accessible (in the trunk, or in a locked container in a vehicle without a trunk)
Ammunition is stored separately
The person is traveling through and does not stop in Illinois beyond what is necessary for travel

FOPA is an affirmative defense, not a guarantee of protection from arrest. Illinois law enforcement may still detain or charge you, and you would need to raise FOPA as a defense. Minimize stops in Illinois when relying on FOPA protection.

States That Recognize the Illinois CCL

While Illinois does not recognize other states' permits, some states do recognize the Illinois CCL. This is a one-way arrangement -- Illinois residents with a CCL may carry in those states, but permit holders from those states cannot carry in Illinois. Check the destination state's reciprocity laws before traveling, as recognition agreements change frequently.^[2]

Vehicle Storage When Entering Prohibited Areas

Even with an Illinois CCL, there are over 23 categories of prohibited locations where you cannot carry. When you encounter a prohibited location, secure your firearm in your vehicle: unloaded or loaded, concealed in a case, inside a locked vehicle, out of plain view.^[5]

Illinois Concealed Carry Reciprocity Guide