What Is Concealed Carry?

Many people who are considering buying or already own a handgun wonder about the definition of “concealed carry.” It can get complicated, and the rules vary by state. Here’s a general overview of concealed carry in the United States.

Concealed weapons are weapons, especially handguns, that people carry hidden on themselves or under one's control. Carrying a concealed weapon is illegal in most states unless the person with the weapon is a law enforcement officer or has a permit to carry a concealed weapon.

A number of states allow law-abiding citizens to carry concealed weapons after obtaining the proper permits. These are often referred to as “concealed carry” laws. For instance, one state allows a concealed carry permit to be issued to anyone who is at least 21 years old, has lived in the state at least 45 days, the county or adjacent county for 30 days, completes a 12-hour firearms training course, and passes criminal and mental-health background checks.

Some states allow citizens to carry a concealed weapon, while allowing places open to the public to post a notice banning concealed weapons on the premises.

Requirements for permits to carry a concealed weapon vary by state, but they usually, among other conditions, require a minimum age, completion of a safety course, and prohibit felons or those found mentally unstable or guilty of certain crimes to obtain a permit.

As for Illinois, it will not honor concealed carry permits from any other states. However, 18 states honor Illinois CCLs. They are: Alabama, Iowa, Montana, North Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Idaho, Kentucky, Nebraska, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, Indiana, Minnesota, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin. Open carry is not legal in Illinois. It’s your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights.

Turn to USA Veteran Firearms Training for firearms basic training and CCL classes, both for residents of Illinois. USA Veteran Firearms Training is owned by military veterans and a Federal Licensed Firearms Dealer (FFL). For more information, please call 815-556-8293 or usavft@gmail.com.