How Long Is That Piece of Plastic in Your Wallet Valid Anyway? A Guide to Illinois FOID Card Expiration (with Jokes, Because Adulting is Hard)
Let's face it, remembering expiration dates is a millennial struggle. We can't keep track of our Netflix passwords, how are we supposed to remember when our magic firearm permission slip goes bye-bye? Fear not, my fellow Illinois gun enthusiasts (and those who are just curious about such things), because this post is here to shine a light on the murky world of FOID card validity.
The Big Reveal: It's Not a Decade...Unless It Is?
Here's the thing: FOID cards used to be a simple "valid for 10 years" affair. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. But then, Illinois decided to add a dash of intrigue (because apparently, bureaucracy enjoys a good plot twist). As of January 1st, 2023, some FOID cards don't actually have expiration dates printed on them!
Hold on, don't hyperventilate just yet. This doesn't mean you can turn your FOID card into a fancy coaster. Law enforcement can still check the validity of your card electronically. It's basically like that scene in Mission Impossible where they pull up a holographic image with a single swipe. Pretty cool, right?
So, How Long Is the Darn Thing Valid Then?
Now for the not-so-shocking answer: Generally, FOID cards are still valid for 10 years. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
- You have a Combined FOID and Concealed Carry License (CCL): If you're the lucky owner of this two-in-one bad boy, then your FOID card basically piggybacks on your CCL's expiration date. No need to worry about a separate renewal for your FOID card in this case.
- You've Got Some Legal Shenanigans Going On: If you've been on the wrong side of the law and your FOID card is subject to suspension or revocation, well, then that 10-year validity period goes out the window.
The key takeaway? Keep your nose clean and you're good to go (legally speaking, of course).
FAQ: Because We Know You Have Questions (and Maybe Haven't Read the Whole Post)
- How to Find Out When My FOID Card Expires?
- If your card has an expiration date printed on it, then that's your answer! Otherwise, you can contact the Illinois State Police (ISP) at 815-740-5200.
- How to Renew My FOID Card?
- You can renew your FOID card online through the ISP's FOID/CCL portal. There's a handy dandy guide on the ISP website to walk you through the process https://www.ispfsb.com/Public/FOID.aspx.
- How to Apply for a Combined FOID and CCL?
- Same answer as above! The ISP website has all the information you need https://www.ispfsb.com/Public/FOID.aspx.
- How to Avoid Having My FOID Card Revoked?
- This one's a bit more complex, but basically, follow the law and don't do anything that would disqualify you from owning a firearm. You can find more information on the Illinois State Police website https://www.ispfsb.com/Public/FOID.aspx.
- How to Use This Information Responsibly?
- Be a safe and responsible gun owner!
