Denials and Appeals

Q: My application was denied based upon a decision of the Concealed Carry Licensing Review Board to sustain a law enforcement objection filed regarding my application. Can I challenge the decision of the Concealed Carry Licensing Review Board?

Yes, pursuant to Section 87(a) of the Firearm Concealed Carry Act (430 ILCS 66), final orders of the Board are subject to judicial review pursuant to the provisions of the Administrative Review Law. You may challenge the decision of the Board by filing a written Petition For Review in the circuit court of the county of your residence. If you intend to file such a petition, please be advised that it must be filed within 35 days of the Board’s final order.
Q: My application was denied by the Director of the ISP other than for reasons related to my FOID Card eligibility. Can I appeal the decision to deny my FCCL application?
Yes, pursuant to Section 1231.170 of the Department’s Administrative rules, you may request informal administrative review of the denial by logging into the Concealed Carry Portal via the ISP website (www.isp.state.il.us) and click on the ”Request Review” button. This satisfies the written request for administrative review to the Department as required by the Department’s Administrative Rules (20 ILAC 1231.170(b)(1)). You must make your request for informal administrative review within 60 days after receipt of the notice that your application is denied.
Q: What should my appeal include?
At the time you make a request via the website for an informal administrative review, you will be asked to provide a personal statement outlining the reason for your appeal and a description of the information you are providing to correct your application or criminal history record. You may also attach additional documents as needed.
Q: Can I appeal in person at the Firearm Services Bureau office?
No, If you arrive at these offices and request to do so, you will be directed to leave and submit your appeal as indicated above.
Q: My application was denied because I am ineligible for a FOID Card. Can I appeal the decision to deny or revoke my FOID Card?
Yes, you may either request relief from your firearms prohibitor or appeal the revocation or denial of your FOID card as directed in the letter you received regarding your FOID application or Card. For further information regarding FOID Relief and Appeals, please click on the following link: FOID FAQ
Q: What if I cannot schedule new training within 60 days of receipt of the notice that my application was denied?
You should appeal in writing within the 60 days to preserve your right to administrative appeal while you pursue further training. If you are denied informal relief because you do not have a new training certificate, you may request a formal administrative hearing which will allow you additional time to obtain a valid training certificate.
Q: What if my application was denied by the CCLRB?
Pursuant to Section 87 of the Act, you may petition the Circuit Court in the county of your residence for a hearing upon the denial.
Q: Can I FOIA or otherwise request a copy of any objections filed with the CCLRB regarding my application?
No, all materials considered by the Board shall be exempt from inspection except upon order of a court. 430 ILCS 66/20(d).
Q: How long do I have to petition the Court to appeal a denial by the CCLRB?
Pursuant to the Administrative Review Law, requests to review a denial by the CCLRB, which is a final administrative decision, must be commenced within 35 days from the date that the denial was served upon the applicant. 735 ILCS 5/3-103.