16-Hour Concealed Carry Course – Illinois CCL Training

If you're seeking an Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL), the state requires 16 hours of certified training—and you’ve found the right place to do it. At Personal Defense Training, our 16-hour concealed carry course goes far beyond just fulfilling state requirements. We equip students with the legal knowledge, tactical awareness, and hands-on skills to carry responsibly and confidently.

Located in Northbrook and Highland Park, we serve students from across Lake and Cook counties. Our course is taught by a certified Illinois and Utah CCL Instructor, NRA Pistol and Rifle Instructor, and veteran of both military and law enforcement service. You’ll be learning from a real expert—not someone who just read the book.

Whether this is your first experience with firearms or you’re ready to take the next step in responsible gun ownership, this course will prepare you thoroughly and professionally.

The Illinois State Police require this course as a prerequisite for applying for a concealed carry license. The course is split into two 8-hour sessions over two separate days and must be taught by a certified instructor.

This training includes both classroom instruction and live-fire qualification, and upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that is valid for your CCL application through the state.

Our course exceeds the minimum standard by focusing on practical instruction, situational awareness, and one-on-one coaching.

Our 16-hour concealed carry course is fully inclusive. When you register, you’ll receive:

• Two full days (16 hours) of certified instruction
  
• Laser training pistols for classroom dry-fire exercises
  
• Live-fire qualification session at a certified range
  
• Ruger SR22 pistol rental, if you don’t own a firearm
  
• Ammunition and targets provided
  
• Printed materials and reference guides
  
• Certificate of completion valid for Illinois CCL application
  

You do not need to bring a firearm or ammunition unless you already own one and wish to train with it. All students must bring valid photo ID and wear closed-toe shoes for the range.

We offer this course on a regular basis to meet demand in the North Shore suburbs. Here are the next scheduled dates:

Next 16-Hour Course Schedule

• Day 1: Sunday, September 8, 2024 – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  
• Day 2: Sunday, September 15, 2024 – 8:00 AM until range qualification is complete
  

Location:

• Classroom: A.O. Fay Masonic Lodge Building, 461 Laurel Ave, Highland Park, IL
• Range: Information provided during Day 1
  

Classes are held in small groups to ensure individual attention and safety, so early registration is strongly recommended.

The total cost for the 16-hour concealed carry course is:

• Full Tuition: $250
  
• Deposit: $100 (required to reserve your seat)
• Balance Due: On or before Day 1 of class
  

We accept PayPal, credit/debit card, or cash. Payment instructions and receipts are sent via email upon registration.

If you are a veteran, you may qualify for our 8-hour CCL class, which skips Day 1. See below.

Illinois allows U.S. military veterans (honorably discharged) to opt out of the first 8 hours of instruction. If this applies to you, we offer an 8-hour Day 2-only course covering legal instruction, situational training, and range qualification.

Veteran Requirements:

• Must present DD214 or valid military ID
  
• Fee: $100, plus range fee
  
• Class includes legal instruction, drills, and qualification
  

Next Veteran Class Dates:

• Saturday, December 7, 2024 – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  
• Sunday, December 8, 2024 – Qualification (time varies)
  

Contact us to verify eligibility and reserve your seat.

This course is ideal for:

• Illinois residents applying for their first concealed carry license
  
• First-time handgun owners needing structured guidance
  
• People interested in home and personal protection
  
• Responsible citizens who want to train legally
  
• Anyone ready to take firearm safety and readiness seriously
  

No prior experience is required. We provide a welcoming, supportive environment for all students—regardless of age, gender, or background.

We’ve trained students from ages 21 to over 70, including men, women, veterans, business professionals, teachers, retirees, and more.

What Makes Our Course Different

Plenty of places in Illinois offer concealed carry certification. So why train with Personal Defense Training?

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Instructor with 40+ years of experience
  Certified in Illinois and Utah
  
• NRA Pistol and Rifle Instructor
  
• Background in military, law enforcement, and martial arts
  
• Small class sizes for personalized instruction
  
• Hands-on learning with both laser and live-fire components
  
• Real communication and support, before and after class
  Focus on awareness, legality, and safe civilian carry
  

This is not a “rubber stamp” class. You will leave prepared, qualified, and confident.

Start Your Concealed Carry Journey the Right Way

Getting your Illinois concealed carry license isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about understanding the responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm, knowing the laws that govern its use, and developing the skill and judgment to protect yourself and others safely.

At Personal Defense Training, we take that responsibility seriously. Our 16-hour concealed carry course prepares you not just to pass—but to carry with purpose, safety, and confidence.