Where To Find Concealed Carry Illinois Classes

By Leanne Goff


With the passage of Illinois Public Act 98-63 in July 2013 anyone who desire to carry a concealed weapon must have a permit. For those who qualify (see below), concealed carry Illinois classes must be successfully passed before a permit can be issued. Those without a license can be convicted of Class A Misdemeanor and cases of multiple offenses, a Felony conviction can result.

Those interested in a license must be 21 years of age or above and have a current Firearm Owner Identification Card. Those with a criminal record may not qualify, specifically anything having to do with physical violence or unlawful force. Anyone with two or more conviction of driving while intoxicated or has been in alcohol or drug rehab within the past 5 years is not eligible. Anyone considering a CCL should get more details on eligibility criteria. If you are eligible, you then have to complete a 16 hour instruction course.

Some special circumstances allow exemption from the law. Current law enforcement officers are exempt and retired officers can be federally approved through the IROCC program. Out of state residents can be eligible if their own state's CCL is substantially similar to Illinois'. If you feel you may be exempt, be sure to check out the information on the state's website to ensure you are in compliance.

Depending on the provider, class is held at convenient times on weekends, week days and evenings. Most offer 4 hour or 8 hour sessions for those who need to break-up the course. Twelve and 16 hour sessions are also common so you can power through the lessons and get going with filing for your permit. Private instruction is also available.

While all concealed carry Illinois classes will follow a similar curriculum, it is important to check out the school's instructors. All will be certified to teach the course, but it is important to find out their background and any specialized experience (law or military, for example). This way you can choose an instructor that fits with your interest and particular needs.

Courses are divided between the classroom and the firing range. During class time you will cover how to safely handle a handgun and securely store arms and ammunition. Cleaning, maintenance and basic care is reviewed and hands on demonstrations provided. In some cases instructors will also review ammunition options and useful accessories and modifications. The second phase of class work is devoted to understanding the concealment law and how to be in compliance. This includes discussion of what is considered self defense and legal use of force.

Range time is designed to give students live fire experience in a safe and supervised environment. Instructors demonstrate proper stance and body position, grip and breath control. Weapon control, aiming and trigger technique is rehearsed and practiced until each student is proficient and feels confident.

The demand for CCL is expected to be huge, with an estimated 400,000 applicants likely being in the permit pool this year. This means that concealed carry Illinois classes may have wait times of up to 6 months, so it is important to sign up soon. You can search online for local sessions and start dates.




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