Since 2019, every Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) operating in Illinois must also obtain a state-level Firearm Dealer License Certification (FDLC) from the Illinois State Police. The Gun Dealer Licensing Act (430 ILCS 68) created this additional layer of state oversight for firearms dealers, making Illinois one of a small number of states that require their own dealer certification beyond the federal FFL.[1]
Who Needs an FDLC
Any person or business that holds a Federal Firearms License and engages in the business of selling, leasing, or transferring firearms at retail or wholesale in Illinois must obtain an FDLC. This includes:[1]
- Retail gun stores and sporting goods stores that sell firearms
- Pawnshops that deal in firearms
- Home-based FFLs conducting transfers
- Non-retail FFLs (manufacturers, importers, collectors) operating in Illinois
Operating as an FFL in Illinois without an FDLC is a violation of state law, regardless of valid federal licensure.
FDLC Fees
The FDLC fee structure under 430 ILCS 68 is based on the type of location:[1]
- Retail location: $1,200
- Non-retail location: $300
A retail location is any premises where firearms are sold, leased, or transferred directly to the public. A non-retail location typically includes manufacturers, importers, or FFLs that do not conduct over-the-counter sales to the general public.
Application Requirements
To apply for an FDLC, you must submit the following to the ISP Firearms Services Bureau:[1]
- A completed FDLC application form
- Proof of a valid Federal Firearms License
- Payment of the applicable fee ($1,200 for retail or $300 for non-retail)
- Proof of compliance with all local zoning requirements for the business location
- A safe storage plan for firearms and ammunition (see below)
- Proof that all owners, agents, and employees involved in firearm transfers have completed ISP-approved FDLC training
FDLC Training Requirement
All individuals who participate in the sale, lease, or transfer of firearms on behalf of the dealership must complete an ISP-approved FDLC training program. This includes owners, managers, and sales employees who handle firearm transactions. The training covers topics such as:[1]
- Illinois firearms laws and regulations, including the FOID Act and Concealed Carry Act
- Proper procedures for conducting background checks through the Firearms Transfer Inquiry Program (FTIP)
- Recordkeeping requirements under state and federal law
- Identifying straw purchases and other prohibited transactions
- Safe storage and inventory management
Safe Storage Plan
Each FDLC applicant must develop and submit a safe storage plan to the ISP. The plan must describe how the dealership will secure all firearms and ammunition when the business is closed to the public, including details about locked display cases, safes, vaults, alarm systems, and other physical security measures.[1]
Electronic Recordkeeping
FDLC holders must maintain electronic records of their firearms inventory, including the make, model, caliber or gauge, and serial number of each firearm in stock. These records must be available for inspection by the ISP and must be maintained in a format that the ISP can access during compliance audits.[1]
Compliance and Inspections
The ISP has the authority to conduct inspections of FDLC-certified dealers to verify compliance with the Act. Inspections may cover inventory records, storage practices, employee training documentation, and adherence to the submitted safe storage plan. Non-compliance can result in suspension or revocation of the FDLC.[1]
Relationship to Federal FFL
The FDLC does not replace the Federal Firearms License. Both are required simultaneously. A dealer must maintain both a valid FFL from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and a valid FDLC from the ISP to lawfully operate in Illinois. Losing either license means the dealer can no longer conduct firearms transactions.[1]
Background Check Responsibilities
FDLC-certified dealers are responsible for conducting background checks on all firearm purchasers through the ISP's Firearms Transfer Inquiry Program (FTIP). The FTIP searches criminal history records, FBI/NICS databases, and Illinois Department of Human Services files relating to mental health and developmental disabilities before approving a transfer.[2]
See also: Dealer Requirements Under the Gun Dealer Licensing Act