Chicago, IL Firearms: Firearms in Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Without CCL
- Unloaded, cased, inaccessible
- With CCL
- Loaded carry permitted
- Statute
- 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6
- Glove box
- Not a valid case
Summary
Illinois law allows firearm transport in a Chicago vehicle only if the gun is unloaded and enclosed in a case, OR the driver holds a valid Illinois Concealed Carry License. 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6 criminalizes loaded firearms in a vehicle without a CCL.
A person commits the offense of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon when he or she knowingly: (1) Carries on or about his or her person or in any vehicle or concealed on or about his or her person except when on his or her land or in his or her abode, legal dwelling, or fixed place of business... any pistol, revolver, stun gun or taser or other firearm... and (A-5) the pistol, revolver, or handgun possessed was uncased, loaded, and immediately accessible at the time of the offense and the person possessing the pistol, revolver, or handgun has not been issued a currently valid license under the Firearm Concealed Carry Act.
Full Breakdown
Under 430 ILCS 65/2 and 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6, any non-CCL holder transporting a firearm in a vehicle in Chicago must keep it unloaded, encased in a closed firearm case, and not immediately accessible. Ammunition can travel in the same vehicle. The console or glove box does not count as a case. CCL holders may carry a loaded concealed handgun on their person or in the cabin under 430 ILCS 66, subject to sensitive-place limits like CTA stations and government buildings. Long-gun rules mirror handguns. Chicago Police strictly enforce these provisions during traffic stops, and violations trigger FOID and CCL revocation along with criminal charges.
Violations & Fines
Loaded or accessible firearms in a vehicle without a CCL are aggravated unlawful use of a weapon under 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6, a Class 4 felony with up to three years prison and mandatory FOID revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an unloaded handgun in my glove box driving through Chicago?
May a CCL holder leave a handgun in a parked car?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chicago
Compare Chicago to another location·View the Illinois firearms overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.