How to Get an FFL in Illinois in 5 Easy Steps

If you are thinking about getting into the gun industry while living in the state of Illinois, the first thing you’ll need to learn is how to get a Federal Firearms License (FFL). It’s no secret that Illinois has some strict gun laws and regulations when compared to other states. This can make getting an FFL in Illinois quite difficult.

Many believe obtaining an FFL is difficult; however, it doesn’t have to be with the right guidance. In this article, we’ll examine Illinois FFL requirements, the average FFL license cost in Illinois, and everything you should know about getting an FFL in Illinois.

Getting an Illinois FFL: An Introduction

Before we discuss how to get an FFL in Illinois, let’s define what an FFL is:

​​A Federal Firearms License, or FFL, is a license issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.^[1]ATF. “Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives“. Accessed on February 16, 2024. An FFL allows an individual or company to engage in the business of manufacturing, importing, and selling firearms. Note that in Illinois, an FFL is only part of your requirements as a business – you will also need a certification through the State Police. 

Step 1: Meet All of the FFL Requirements

When starting a firearms business, you must first make sure you meet all the federal, state, and local FFL requirements. State requirements, as the name implies, vary from state to state (and are quite detailed in Illinois). Additionally, you’ll need to consider your local and zoning regulations. In this section, we will take a detailed look at all requirements to help you determine if you can get an FFL in Illinois. 

Federal requirements

To get an FFL in Illinois, you must abide by the same federal requirements as anyone else. These federal requirements are as follows:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States.
• Not have a prior felony conviction.
• Not be a user of federally illegal drugs (this includes marijuana because it’s a federally illegal drug, even though it’s legal at the state level).
• Have no prior conviction for domestic violence.
• Have no prior conviction of any other offense that would disqualify you from owning a gun.
• Not have a formal diagnosis as mentally incompetent.
• Not have violated any federal gun laws.
• Operate out of a physical location, either a home or storefront.
• Meet the requirements for operating an FFL out of your chosen business location.

State requirements

We won’t sugarcoat it. The Illinois FFL requirements are strict. Not only do you have to apply for an FFL in Illinois, but you are also responsible for applying for a Firearms Dealer License Certification (FDLC). This certification comes from the Illinois State Police.^[2]ISP. “Illinois State Police”. Accessed on February 16, 2024.

Besides the FFL, you need to apply for your FDLC and meet the following requirements to receive the FDLC and stay licensed. These requirements are as follows: 

• Every license holder and employee of a license holder must complete two hours of annual training covering all legal requirements for business operations.
• A business Firearms Owner Identification Card (FOID card) — you must register for this separately.
• Determine whether you plan to operate in a retail or non-retail space.
• Follow all appropriate signage requirements.
• Follow all video surveillance and alarm system requirements (including an alarm system that notifies local law enforcement of “unauthorized intrusion” into any part of the building where you store firearms inventory).
• Maintain a digital record of every firearm that has ever been received or sold by the licensee.
• Have a signed and notarized affidavit certifying the status of your FFL.
• Have all application documents, affidavits, licenses, etc., available in a digital, uploadable format.

*Note: that this is a partial list (and is subject to change) so you should visit the FDLC website and download their checklist for all requirements. 

Local and zoning requirements

Navigating local and zoning requirements can prove to be the most challenging obstacle when applying for an FFL. This is no different in the state of Illinois. Illinois seems to change its rules and regulations frequently, so it’s hard to pinpoint what obstacles you may run into. Before applying for an FFL, you will need to contact your local government/police and zoning to ensure you have the authorization to set up a firearms business at your chosen business location. 

Step 2: Select the Type of FFL you Need

Before choosing which type of FFL to apply for, you will need to have a solid business model. Are you starting a repair shop or an ammo manufacturing business? Are you looking to ship guns to other businesses around the state? Or maybe you plan to do something else entirely.

There are nine types of FFLs you can apply for, which is why you need to decide what type of firearm business you plan to start before you apply. These nine types of FFLs come in three different categories, (dealers, manufacturers, and importers). Below, we’ll list for you the three categories and the nine types of FFLs within them: 

FFL license types

Dealer license types:

• 01 Type FFL: Dealer in firearms other than destructive devices
• 02 Type FFL: Pawnbroker in firearms other than destructive devices
• 09 Type FFL: Dealer in destructive devices
• 03 Type FFL: Collector of curios relics

Manufacturer license types:

• 06 Type FFL: Manufacturer of ammunition for firearms other than ammunition for destructive devices or armor-piercing ammunition
• 07 Type FFL: Manufacturer of firearms other than destructive devices
• 10 Type FFL: Manufacturer of destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices or armor-piercing ammunition

Importer license types: 

• 08 Type FFL: Importer of firearms or ammunition for firearms other than destructive devices or ammunition other than armor-piercing ammunition
• 11 Type FFL: Importer of destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices or armor-piercing ammunition

Step 3: Complete an Online FFL Course

When becoming an FFL dealer in Illinois, it is not required to complete an online FFL course. The FDLC, however, does require that you complete relevant training. The firearms sector can be risky and controversial, so even without the requirement, we encourage you to take the time to research and become an expert on the industry and its quirks.

Step 4: Apply for your Illinois FFL

Once you have chosen your business model and have ensured that you comply with all federal, state, and local requirements, you should not have any problems getting your FFL and can apply here.

FFL License Costs in Illinois

The FFL license cost in Illinois is based on the federal standard. Below is a chart with all federal costs depending on what type of FFL business you plan to start. All FFL licenses are valid for an initial three years, and each renewal is good for three additional years. 

FDLC Fees

In Illinois, the FFL is not the only license you’ll need. You’ll also need to secure an FDLC. The fee for an FDLC operating out of a retail location is $1,200. Non-retail business locations (including some home-based FFLs) have a $300 fee.

Step 5: Have an Interview with a Representative from Your Regional ATF Office

Once you have completed your application and passed the background checks, your regional ATF office in Illinois will arrange an in-person interview with you. ​​The Industry Operations Investigator (IOT) will meet with you to talk about your business and look at your proposed business model, business location (or home location), and verify that you understand the federal laws around selling, importing, or manufacturing guns.^[3]ATF. ​​”How to Become a Federal Firearms Licensee in 10 Easy Steps”. Accessed on February 16, 2024.

Getting a Federal Firearms License in Illinois: Closing Thoughts

Although it might not be the easiest state, getting your FFL in Illinois is possible. We hope that by now, you are familiar with the Illinois FFL requirements and FFL license cost and have a good grasp of how to get an FFL in Illinois.

You will be faced with many more local and state requirements, like obtaining a Firearms Dealer License Certification (FDLC), but if you do your research and stay motivated, you will have your new firearms business up and running in no time. From here, you can secure a gun-friendly merchant service provider to accept payments for your business. A provider that understands the unique challenges of the firearms industry is your best bet in obtaining a merchant account and getting your business started today.