7 replies to this topic

[CA Dude]

I'm in the U.S. Army and I have recieved orders to move to the IL.

I understand that if I become a IL. resident I must have a FOID.  Currently I'm a legal resident of MT and I have no intentions to change that.  

For the pupose of firearms ownership in IL. will I be requiried to get a FOID?  Does living in the state establishes legal residencey for the purpose of firearms ownership?  As a resident of MT do I even need a FOID?

Since I do not live in IL right now how long to I have, if needed, to get a FOID after I move there?  Can I bring my firearms into the state without a FOID?

I have been living in California for the past four years and their laws, as fouled up as they are, exempt the Military from most of them.  Does IL do the same?

Three weeks ago I contacted the IL State Police through their website asking them th same questions and I have not recieved an answer yet.

Thank you Ed

[Gunslinger]

You won't recieve an answer from the ISP. FOID is required for residents so unless you have an Illinois ID you don't need one while here. IANAL. however not having one and using an out of state ID can make ammo and firearms purchases somewhat of a pain. I'm sure someone else will give you better advice before the day is over

[Blackhawk067]

Gunslinger is right. If you don't establish residency here, you are not required to have a FOID card. He is also correct in that you will not be able to buy ammunition or firearms in the state.

Yes, Illinois State Police is a crap shoot. Some are very helpful and well informed, some are the exact opposite on both counts. When I first moved back here, I called them to ask what I was supposed to do between the time I actually became a resident and received my FOID card since I already owned weapons bought as a resident of Florida. The guy was like, "uhhh...hmm...that's a good question. I don't know if I know the answer." His answer was eventually, "just be careful". lol

If you do want an official answer, I suggest calling the ISP instead of emailing them. 217-782-7980 M-F 8:30 to 5

[Indigo]

Are you enlisted or a commissioned officer? Is this a PCS?   If you hold a commission, state law gives you significant privileges not afforded to ordinary mortals.  Before McDonald and the subsequent changes in the law, officers were even exempted from Chicago's handgun ban.  Not sure about the rest of the state law situation.

[CA Dude]

Indigo,

I'm a Master SGT.  Like they say I work for a living.

When I was assigned at Ft. Bragg, NC in order to buy a firearm I had to give the dealer a copy of my orders assigning me there and a photocopy of my military ID card.  I know that works for the ATF.  I'm wondering if IL has a provision like that?

Ed

[Buzzard]

IllinoisCarry member 'TVandermyde', also known a Todd should be able to get you squared away. Send him a PM.

[I Hate Gunlaws]

I believe there's a way for you to apply for your FOID and retain your MT license. Not sure how it works, but I believe orders bringing you to Illinois establishes a "dual residency". I was stationed at Bragg as well, and after going through the Provost Marshal's office, then the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, I was able to get pistol permits and later a NC LTC. The Sheriff's office described it as dual residency, and that federal law makes a provision for it. I had to provide a copy of my orders bringing me to Bragg, a letter from the Provost Marshal stating a post background check had been performed and passed, and copies of my military and Illinois ID's. Bought 2 pistols, a rifle, and a shotgun.

[Stevepk]

Are you being assigned to Scott AFB?  There is a Gun Club on base that you should be able to buy at.  I retired AF and still work on Scott but haven't been to the Gun Club in years.