How to get a FOID in Illinois
Note that the following article is compiled based on publicly available information, including the text of the relevant laws. I'm not a lawyer, and anyone needing advice specific to their situation should consult a lawyer as well as the laws themselves.
What is a FOID?
A FOID, or Firearm Owner's Identification Card, is an ID issued by the state of Illinois. It was originally established by the Firearm Owner's Identification Card Act in 1968, and has been revised and modified by subsequent legislation since then.
Do I need a FOID?
Any Illinois resident wishing to possess firearms or ammunition needs a FOID card, with a few exceptions. If you're going to a commercial shooting range, you are allowed to shoot under the supervision of someone else that possesses a FOID, provided you are not legally disqualified from getting one (see below). This is the exception that allows people to take firearms training from an instructor before obtaining their FOID card, which is a good way to learn about firearms safety.
If you are not a resident of Illinois, you do not need to possess a FOID, but are subject to other restrictions on the transportation and use of firearms.
Benefits of getting a FOID
A FOID allows you to purchase and possess firearms and ammunition as a resident of Illinois. Any gun store in Illinois will require a FOID to purchase a gun or ammunition, and any retailer will require a FOID on file to ship ammunition to you. States bordering Illinois will often check that Illinois residents have a FOID for purchases of ammunition and/or gun accessories.
Qualifications for a FOID
From the Illinois State Police website, you are qualified if you meet the following:
I have not been convicted of any Felony under the laws of this or any other jurisdiction.
I have not been adjudicated as a mental defective.
I have not been a patient in a mental institution or any part of a medical facility for the treatment of mental illness within the past 5 years.
I am not intellectually disabled or developmentally disabled.
I have not within the past year (preceding the date of this application) used or been addicted to any controlled substance or narcotics in violation of state or federal law.
I am not subject of an existing Order of Protection or a No Contact/No Stalking Order.
I have not within the past 5 years been convicted of battery, assault, aggravated assault, violation of an order of protection, or a substantially similar offense in which a firearm was used or possessed.
I have not been convicted of domestic battery (felony or misdemeanor), aggravated domestic battery or a substantially similar offense.
I have not been adjudicated by a court as a mental defective or ordered by a court, board or authorized entity to in-patient or out-patient mental health treatment.
I am not an alien who is unlawfully present in the United States.
I have not within the past year failed a drug test for a drug for which I did not have a prescription.
I have not been admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
I have never renounced my citizenship as a citizen of the United States.
I have never been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions.
I am not a fugitive from justice.
Note that these are just the stated reasons for disqualification - you may be disqualified for other reasons not stated, and need to appeal. For example, if you have been in a mental institution for treatment at any point, you might need a letter from a doctor stating you're okay to possess firearms. In addition, you must have a valid state ID or driver's license to apply.
Applying for a FOID
The easiest way to apply for a FOID is through the Illinois State Police website. You must register an account on the website to apply, and can optionally submit fingerprints, which can expedite the approval process. You'll need to answer a series of questions, including previous names and criminal history. You'll also need to upload a portrait photo, although the FOID will likely end up just using your driver's license photo for the printed card. At the end of the process, you'll pay a fee to submit the application.
Illinois State Police have published a full step-by-step video here, if you're a visual learner.
FAQ
Can I rent guns at the range with a FOID?
A FOID is required to rent guns at the range, but it is not the only requirement. Ranges will not rent a gun to solo shooters who do not already possess a gun themselves, since this can be a method for people to quickly obtain a gun for suicide.
Can I shoot at the range without a FOID?
Yes, if you are under the supervision of a shooter with a FOID who is 21 or older.
Can I carry a concealed firearm with a FOID?
No, a FOID does not entitle you to carry a concealed firearm in Illinois. To do that, you need an Illinois Concealed Carry License.