Illinois is home to approximately 1,500 Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, representing about 1.4% of all licensed firearms dealers in the United States. This comprehensive directory helps Illinois residents and visitors locate licensed gun dealers, firearms transfer agents, and gun stores throughout the state. Whether you need to purchase a firearm, complete a private sale transfer, or find a licensed dealer for compliance purposes, our directory makes it easy to connect with FFLs across Illinois.
Browse by city below to find a licensed FFL near you in Illinois.
Obtaining a Federal Firearms License in Illinois requires completing both federal and state requirements. First, you must be at least 21 years old and legally eligible to possess firearms with a valid FOID card. Submit ATF Form 7, the Application for Federal Firearms License, along with the required fees and photographs. The ATF conducts a thorough background check and an in-person interview at your proposed business location. Illinois requires dealers to obtain a state Firearm Dealer License Certificate through the Illinois State Police, in addition to the federal FFL. Dealers must also comply with local zoning and business licensing requirements. For a complete, step-by-step guide, check out FastBound's FFL guide for Illinois.
Federal Firearms License holders in Illinois are authorized to engage in various firearms-related business activities depending on their license type, subject to state regulations. Type 01 Dealers can buy, sell, and repair firearms, making them the most common license type for retail gun stores. Type 07 Manufacturers can produce firearms and ammunition, while also conducting dealer activities. Illinois FFLs must verify that buyers possess a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card before any transfer. They facilitate required waiting periods and conduct background checks through the Illinois State Police. FFLs also handle private party transfers as required by state law.
Yes, you can purchase firearms online and have them shipped to a licensed FFL in Illinois for transfer. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased online from out-of-state sellers be shipped to a licensed dealer who will process the transfer. You must possess a valid FOID card to complete the transfer. The receiving FFL will conduct the required background check through the Illinois State Police and process the mandatory waiting period (72 hours for handguns, 24 hours for long guns). Before making an online purchase, contact the FFL to confirm they accept transfers and ask about their transfer fee.
Illinois has approximately 1,450 active Federal Firearms License holders distributed across the state. From the Chicago metropolitan area to communities throughout central and southern Illinois, FFLs are accessible to residents statewide across all 102 counties. This network ensures that Illinois residents with valid FOID cards have access to licensed dealers for firearm purchases, transfers, and compliance services. Use this directory to browse FFLs by city and find a licensed dealer near you.