Traveling Between IL, IN, WI, MO, and IA With Firearms

Illinois shares borders with Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri, Iowa, and Kentucky. Each of these states has different firearms laws, and Illinois's lack of reciprocity creates unique challenges for travelers. This guide provides a state-by-state overview of what you need to know when crossing these borders with firearms.^[1]

The Core Problem: Illinois Does Not Recognize Other Permits

When you cross from Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri, or Iowa into Illinois, your home state's concealed carry permit becomes invalid. You must immediately comply with Illinois law, which means:^[2]

• You cannot carry a loaded firearm on your person or in your vehicle (unless you hold an Illinois CCL)
• Firearms must be unloaded and enclosed in a case
• Ammunition must be stored separately

State-by-State Overview

Illinois to Indiana

Indiana is a constitutional carry state as of July 1, 2022. No permit is required to carry a handgun openly or concealed for persons who are at least 18 and not otherwise prohibited. When crossing from Illinois into Indiana:

• Your Illinois CCL is recognized in Indiana, but you do not need it -- Indiana allows permitless carry
• You may carry a loaded handgun on your person or in your vehicle once you are in Indiana
• When returning to Illinois, you must unload and case the firearm before crossing the state line

Illinois to Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a shall-issue state that requires a Concealed Carry License for concealed carry. Wisconsin does recognize the Illinois CCL. When traveling:

• Illinois CCL holders may carry concealed in Wisconsin
• Wisconsin permit holders cannot carry in Illinois -- the recognition is one-way
• Open carry of a handgun is legal in Wisconsin without a permit for persons 18 and older
• When returning from Wisconsin to Illinois, unload and case firearms before the border

Illinois to Missouri

Missouri is a constitutional carry state as of January 1, 2017. No permit is required for residents who are 19 or older (18 for military members) to carry a concealed firearm. When traveling:

• Your Illinois CCL is recognized in Missouri, but Missouri also allows permitless carry for its own residents
• Non-Missouri residents may need a recognized permit to carry concealed in Missouri -- check current Missouri law
• When returning to Illinois, unload and case firearms before crossing the state line

Illinois to Iowa

Iowa is a constitutional carry state as of July 1, 2021. No permit is required to carry a handgun openly or concealed for persons legally allowed to possess a firearm. When traveling:

• Your Illinois CCL is recognized in Iowa, but Iowa also allows permitless carry
• Iowa permit holders cannot carry in Illinois
• When returning to Illinois, unload and case firearms before the border

Federal FOPA for Interstate Travel

The Firearms Owners Protection Act (FOPA) is critical for any multi-state trip that passes through Illinois. FOPA provides that a person may transport a firearm from one state where possession is legal to another such state, even through restrictive states, if:^[3]

• The firearm is unloaded and not readily accessible (locked in the trunk or in a locked container in vehicles without a separate trunk)
• Ammunition is stored separately and not readily accessible
• The person is traveling through without extended stops

Practical Tips for Multi-State Travel

• Before leaving Illinois: If you are a CCL holder, you may carry loaded and concealed until you reach a state border. Understand the destination state's laws before crossing.
• Re-entering Illinois: Before crossing back into Illinois from a constitutional carry state, pull over and secure your firearm -- unloaded, in a case, with ammunition separate. Do this before the state line.
• Driving through Chicago: Be especially cautious. Chicago has historically aggressive enforcement of firearms violations. Ensure strict compliance with all Illinois transport rules when driving through the city.
• Ammunition and magazines: Remember that Illinois limits rifle magazines to 10 rounds and handgun magazines to 15 rounds under PICA. If you are carrying magazines that comply with your home state but exceed Illinois limits, you may be in violation while in Illinois.
• Documentation: Carry your FOID card, CCL (if applicable), and a valid photo ID at all times when transporting firearms in Illinois.

What to Do If Stopped by Police

Illinois does not require you to proactively inform an officer that you have a firearm. However, if asked, you must disclose and present your CCL and FOID card. Keep your hands visible, inform the officer of the firearm's location, and follow all instructions. If you are a non-resident relying on FOPA, calmly explain that you are traveling through and that the firearm is unloaded and cased.^[1]