Firearm law reference
Illinois firearm laws
A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in Illinois — private-sale background checks, permits to purchase, restricted-firearm and magazine rules, handgun roster, waiting periods and ammunition. Federal law applies everywhere on top of these state rules.
At a glance
Reviewed 2026-06-26
What to watch for
- Important: Illinois requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (background check).
- Important: Illinois: A FOID card is required to buy or possess any firearm or ammunition.
- Caution: Interstate transfers must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) in the buyer's state for the background check; a private buyer can't take a handgun across state lines.
- Caution: Illinois restricts large-capacity magazines. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
- Important: Illinois restricts "assault weapons" — certain semi-automatic firearms and features may be prohibited.
- Note: Illinois has a waiting period (about 3 days) before a firearm can be received.
- Note: Never transfer to a prohibited person or complete a straw purchase (buying for someone else) — both are federal crimes.
General information, not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and city or county ordinances may add requirements this summary doesn't capture. Verify the current law with the Illinois Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.
Frequently asked
Does Illinois require a background check for private firearm sales?
Yes. Illinois requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (FFL), who runs the background check.
Do you need a permit or license to buy a firearm in Illinois?
Yes. A FOID card is required to buy or possess any firearm or ammunition.
Does Illinois restrict "assault weapons"?
Yes. Illinois restricts certain semi-automatic firearms and features classified as "assault weapons." Confirm a specific model and configuration is permitted before buying or selling.
Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in Illinois?
Yes. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in Illinois?
Yes — about 3 days. The federal background check must also clear before transfer.
Are there rules for buying ammunition in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois requires a FOID card to buy or possess ammunition.
Buying or selling in Illinois?
Rangium shows these state-specific notes right on every listing, and Vanta can answer compliance questions against your own inventory. Rangium is a neutral listings venue — it never processes payment or ships firearms.