Very Restrictive
Illinois Gun Laws 2026
Illinois gun law rating: B+ (Very Restrictive). Ranked #5 out of 50 states for gun law strength. Key policies: permitless carry (No), red flag law (Yes), assault weapons ban (Yes).
B+
Overall Grade
#5
State Rank (strength)
Permitless Carry: No
Constitutional Carry
Red Flag: Yes
ERPO Law
Key Gun Law Provisions
| Provision | Status |
|---|---|
| Permitless (Constitutional) Carry | No |
| Red Flag Law (ERPO) | Yes |
| Assault Weapons Ban | Yes |
| Universal Background Checks (private sales) | Yes |
| Waiting Period | 72 hours |
| Magazine Capacity Limit | 10-15 rounds (varies) |
Overview
Illinois passed an assault weapons ban in 2023 after the Highland Park mass shooting on July 4, 2022. The state requires a FOID (Firearm Owner Identification) card for all gun purchases and has universal background checks.
2026 Political Impact
Chicago\'s gun violence despite strict laws is a persistent political argument from Republicans, who note that guns often flow from neighboring states with fewer restrictions.