Frequently Asked Questions
General Training
How old do I need to be to attend class?
All Common Caliber training classes are open to individuals 18 years of age or older.
Do I need to bring my own firearm and equipment?
No. You are not required to bring a firearm to attend class. Loaner firearms and ammunition are available for an additional fee.
Eye and ear protection is available at no charge on a limited basis with prior notice.
I have a disability or injury. Can I still attend class?
Absolutely. Please provide advance notice of your circumstances so we can take appropriate steps to accommodate your needs.
CONCEALED CARRY
Do I need a FOID card to take the class?
No. A FOID card is not required to attend the concealed carry class. However, a valid FOID card is required to submit your Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL) application.
Applying for your FOID as early as possible can help prevent delays.
Do I need to be 21 years old to take the class?
No. You do not need to be 21 to attend the concealed carry class.
However, we recommend being within six months of your 21st birthday.
Training certificates are valid for one year, and taking the class too early may result in expiration before you are eligible to apply.
Do I need to own a firearm to apply for a concealed carry license?
No. You do not need to own or possess a firearm to apply for a concealed carry license.
We recommend applying as soon as your training certificate is issued. If the certificate expires before you apply, you will be required to retake the class.
When should I renew my concealed carry license?
We strongly encourage renewing as early as possible. Illinois law allows renewal applications to be submitted up to 180 days before expiration.
Please note:
- If you submit your renewal before your license expires, you may continue to carry while it is being processed.
- If your license expires before you submit a renewal, you may not carry until it is approved.
- If more than one year passes after expiration, Illinois law requires completion of the full 16-hour course again.
Do you decide whether I receive my concealed carry license?
No. While we provide 16-hour, 8-hour, and 3-hour renewal training, all decisions regarding issuance, renewal, suspension, or revocation of concealed carry licenses are made solely by the Illinois State Police.
We can provide application assistance and general guidance, but we have no control over application outcomes. We can also assist with general guidance on the appeal process if an application is denied.
Policies and Disclaimers
Are your instructors certified?
Yes. All Common Caliber instructors are certified firearms instructors recognized by the Illinois State Police and the NRA.
Do you offer refunds for training classes?
No. Common Caliber does not offer refunds once a class has been paid for and scheduled. However, we will work with you to reschedule when possible.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are available to attend, especially for concealed carry classes, as Illinois law requires completion of the full 16 hours of training.
If you are denied a FOID or CCL after completing our training, no refunds will be issued.
Individuals who are legally prohibited from owning or possessing firearms and have not sought legal remedy will have their FOID and CCL applications denied by the Illinois State Police.
Is legal information provided in class considered legal advice?
No. Common Caliber is a firearms training and sales company, not a law firm. Any legal discussion provided during training is for educational purposes only and does not constitute as legal advice.
Legal topics are reviewed to meet Illinois training requirements. Laws vary by situation and may change over time. You should consult a qualified attorney before carrying a firearm in specific locations or circumstances, and before purchasing or relying on any self-defense, liability, or protection policies.