Illinois Firearms in Vehicles Law: Statewide Firearms Rules (2026)

Key Facts

CCL Statute: 430 ILCS 66
Transport Rule: 720 ILCS 5/24-2
Preemption: 430 ILCS 66/90
Non-CCL Rule: Unloaded and cased
Aggravated UUW: Class 4 felony

Full Breakdown

Under Section 24-1.6 of the Criminal Code (720 ILCS 5/24-1.6) and Section 24-2 (720 ILCS 5/24-2), a person without a Concealed Carry License may transport a firearm in a vehicle only if the firearm is unloaded and enclosed in a case, firearm carrying box, shipping box, or other container, or if it is broken down in a non-functioning state. Concealed Carry License holders may carry a loaded, concealed handgun on or about their person or within an accessible vehicle compartment under 430 ILCS 66/10. Section 90 of the Concealed Carry Act preempts the field of handgun transportation, voiding inconsistent local rules. FOID cardholders without a CCL must follow the case-and-unloaded rule.

Violations & Penalties

Violations of vehicle carry rules may constitute aggravated unlawful use of a weapon under 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6, generally a Class 4 felony, with enhanced penalties for prior convictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How must non-CCL holders transport firearms in Illinois?

Without a Concealed Carry License, the firearm must be unloaded and enclosed in a case, firearm carrying box, shipping box, or other container, or broken down in a non-functioning state per 720 ILCS 5/24-2.

Can CCL holders keep a loaded handgun in a car in Illinois?

Yes. Under 430 ILCS 66/10, a Concealed Carry License holder may carry a loaded, concealed handgun on or about their person or within a vehicle, subject to the prohibited locations listed in Section 65.

Can Illinois cities add vehicle carry restrictions?

No. Section 90 of the Firearm Concealed Carry Act preempts local regulation of the carrying and transportation of handguns by license holders, displacing inconsistent municipal ordinances.

Illinois Vehicle Firearm Carry Rules Under FOID and CCL