Every Illinois resident who wants to possess firearms or ammunition must first obtain a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card from the Illinois State Police (ISP). The FOID card is the foundational license for all firearms privileges in the state, and without one, possessing a firearm or even a single round of ammunition is a criminal offense under 430 ILCS 65.[1]
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria under 430 ILCS 65/8. You must:[1]
- Be at least 21 years of age, or be 18-20 with written consent from a parent or legal guardian who holds a valid FOID card
- Have no felony conviction under Illinois or any other jurisdiction's laws
- Have no conviction for domestic violence (misdemeanor or felony)
- Not be the subject of an active order of protection
- Have no conviction for assault or battery within the past 5 years
- Not have been a patient in a mental health facility within the past 5 years
- Not have been adjudicated as a mental defective
- Not be addicted to narcotics
- Not be an illegal alien
- Not be intellectually or developmentally disabled
What You Need Before You Start
Gather the following before beginning your application:
- A valid Illinois driver's license or Illinois state identification card
- A recent digital photograph that meets ISP specifications (head and shoulders, neutral background, no glasses)
- A payment method for the $10 application fee (credit card, debit card, or electronic check -- additional processing fees may apply depending on the payment method)
- If you are 18-20 years old, a completed parental consent form signed by your parent or legal guardian
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Create an Account on the ISP Portal
Navigate to the ISP Firearms Services Bureau portal at ispfsb.com. Create an account using your Illinois driver's license or state ID number. Paper applications are no longer accepted -- all applications must be submitted electronically through this portal.[2]
Step 2: Complete the Application
Log in and select "Apply for a FOID Card." Fill in all required personal information, including your full legal name, date of birth, address, and contact information. Answer each eligibility question truthfully. Providing false information on a FOID application is a Class 2 felony punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison.[1]
Step 3: Upload Your Photo
Upload a digital photograph meeting ISP specifications. The photo must be a clear, front-facing headshot with a plain background. Avoid wearing hats, sunglasses, or anything that obscures your face.
Step 4: Pay the Fee
Submit payment of $10. The fee is distributed as follows: $5 to the State Police Firearm Services Fund and $5 to the State Police Firearm Enforcement Fund (per P.A. 103-609, effective July 1, 2024). Depending on the payment method chosen, an additional processing fee may apply.[2]
Step 5: Submit and Wait
After submitting, you will receive a confirmation number. Use this number to track your application status through the ISP portal.
Optional: Submit Fingerprints
Although not required, you may voluntarily submit a full set of fingerprints through an ISP-approved vendor as part of the application process. Submitting fingerprints enrolls you in the automatic renewal program and may expedite background checks for future firearm purchases through the Firearms Transfer Inquiry Program (FTIP).[2]
Processing Timelines
Under 430 ILCS 65/5, the ISP must approve or deny a new FOID card application within 30 days of receiving a completed application.[1] In practice, processing times have varied. The ISP has faced significant backlogs during periods of high demand, with some applicants waiting months or even longer during peak periods in 2020 and 2021.[3]
Background Check Process
After you submit your application, the ISP Firearms Services Bureau reviews your eligibility by searching multiple databases, including criminal history records, the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), and Illinois Department of Human Services records relating to mental health and developmental disabilities.[4]
If Your Application Is Denied
If the ISP denies your application, you will receive written notice explaining the reason. You may appeal by requesting a hearing before the Director of State Police. If that administrative appeal is unsuccessful, you may file a petition for judicial review in the circuit court of your county of residence. You may not possess firearms or ammunition during the appeal process.[1]
Card Validity
Once issued, a FOID card is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance. Keep your card in a safe location and carry it whenever you are in possession of firearms or ammunition. An expired FOID card has no legal effect -- possessing firearms with an expired card carries the same penalties as possessing without a card at all.[2]