When Illinois first announced the legalization of recreational cannabis, residents couldn’t be happier. But, this also posed some serious concern for those with concealed carry licenses: were these cards going to be revoked? How were Illinois cannabis and gun laws going to intertwine?
“We’re hearing an awful lot of questions because there is a lot of misinformation out there,” says the president of the Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois, Dan Eldridge. Eldridge and others—like the Illinois State Police—want to make it clear that you can own guns and have an MMJ card in Illinois.
Obtaining an Illinois MMJ card is not grounds for revoking your gun licenses. This also doesn’t automatically send your information to the federal government. The Illinois State Police have stated that adult cannabis use alone will not result in this consequence. However, there are certain circumstances where cannabis use/possession and firearm possession may result in penalties. (But, we’ll talk about those later.)
What’s important to understand here is that, as long as you’re responsibly consuming cannabis and adequately handling your firearm, you shouldn’t have any trouble possessing both an MMJ card and a concealed carry license.
History of Cannabis Legalization in Illinois
Illinois has been at the forefront of cannabis reform for more than a decade. The state first passed its medical marijuana law in 2013, allowing patients with qualifying conditions to legally access cannabis. Over the years, lawmakers expanded the list of medical conditions, making the program more inclusive and easier to access.
The biggest shift came in 2019, when Illinois became the 11th state in the U.S. to legalize cannabis for adult use. Unlike many states that relied on ballot measures, Illinois made history by passing adult-use legalization through the legislature. The law not only permitted recreational sales beginning in January 2020 but also built in one of the most robust social equity programs in the country.
A key part of legalization included addressing past harms from prohibition. Since the law’s passage, the state has expunged nearly half a million cannabis-related arrests and pardoned more than 20,000 convictions. Illinois also directs a quarter of cannabis tax revenue into its Restore, Reinvest, Renew (R3) program, which funds violence prevention, legal aid, and economic development in communities hit hardest by the war on drugs.
By 2023, Illinois had become one of the largest cannabis markets in the nation, with sales nearing $2 billion and tax revenue surpassing alcohol. While legalization was widely celebrated, it also raised questions for residents who held firearms, concealed carry licenses, or Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) cards. For many, the concern was how this new legal industry would intersect with existing gun laws—an issue that remains complicated today.
Guns and MMJ Are Illegal at the Federal Level
Unfortunately, regardless of what your state says about guns and cannabis, the two together are still illegal at the federal level. Federal law has explicitly stated that you cannot possess a firearm while under the influence of any narcotic, including cannabis— medicinal or not.
Even though Illinois State Police have said that they won’t seek you out for your MMJ use and firearm possession, Eldridge wants to remind you, “You should know that you are not a legal purchaser of a firearm in Illinois or in any state if you’re using cannabis.”
We know, we know, this is all super muddy. Sadly, that’s where gun laws and cannabis stand nowadays: these regulations are confusing and function on a case-by-case basis. But, until the federal government and state governments are on the same page, these laws will continue to stay unclear.
To stay as safe as possible with your guns in Illinois—and your cannabis, of course—you should strictly adhere to state law but still be aware of your actions on a federal level. If you don’t want to risk the trouble, we’d recommend avoiding having a CCL or Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card entirely.
Understanding FOID and CCL in Illinois
Anyone who wants to legally own or purchase firearms or ammunition in Illinois must have a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. Issued by the Illinois State Police, the FOID card acts as proof that the holder has passed a background check and is legally permitted to possess firearms under state law. Without it, buying a gun or even buying ammunition in Illinois is not allowed.
A Concealed Carry License (CCL) is different. While a FOID card allows you to own firearms, a CCL gives you the right to carry a handgun on your person in public, either openly or concealed, depending on the situation. To qualify, applicants must complete firearm training, pass additional background checks, and meet stricter eligibility requirements than those for a FOID card.
It’s also important to understand how these state-issued permits differ from federal rules. Federal law applies everywhere in the U.S. and is enforced through the Gun Control Act. This is the law that prohibits firearm possession for anyone considered an “unlawful user” of controlled substances, including cannabis. Illinois can issue FOID cards and CCLs to residents who use medical marijuana or recreational cannabis, but that doesn’t change the federal restriction. In practice, this means a person could be fully compliant with Illinois law yet still be in violation of federal firearm law if they use cannabis and own a gun.
The Penalties for Buying a Gun and Having an Illinois MMJ Card
As we mentioned above, there are some circumstances in which medical cannabis use can cause the denial or revocation of a CCL or FOID.
Like with all substances, there are both proper and improper consumption methods. If the state believes you to be abusing medical cannabis or show signs of addiction, they may not allow you to receive a CCL or FOID. Or, if you already have one, ISP may decide to revoke it depending on the situation.
If you’ve demonstrated problems with chronic drug use in the past, whether it be cannabis or not, you cannot own or use a firearm whatsoever. This directly reflects federal law, demonstrating the delicate balance between cannabis and gun possession in Illinois.
In general, it’s essential to recognize that just because your state allows CCLs or FOIDs alongside MMJ cards does not mean this gives you a free pass to enjoy your cannabis and firearms together. In fact, this could not be further from the truth. There are still strict penalties for those who violate the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act.
Safe Practices for Patients Who Own Firearms
For patients who want to remain compliant with both cannabis and firearm laws, careful practices can reduce risk.
Separate Use and Storage
Never use cannabis while handling firearms. If you own both, store them separately. Firearms should remain locked in a secure case or safe, while cannabis products should be kept in their own designated area. This separation helps avoid any claims of simultaneous use.
Follow ISP Guidelines
Keep your FOID and CCL in good standing by respecting Illinois State Police rules. Do not carry a firearm into dispensaries, while transporting cannabis, or while under the influence. If approached by law enforcement, be transparent about your licenses and follow all lawful instructions.
Stay Informed About Federal Rules
Even though Illinois has legalized cannabis, the federal government still views it as an illegal drug. This means that lying on federal forms about cannabis use, or carrying a gun in federal jurisdictions (like post offices or federal parks), can put you at risk. Avoid gray areas by knowing where state protections end and federal law begins.
Veterans, Cannabis, and Gun Rights in Illinois
Illinois has one of the largest veteran populations in the Midwest, and many veterans turn to medical cannabis to manage conditions like chronic pain, PTSD, and insomnia. But the intersection of veterans’ health care, cannabis, and firearms can be especially complicated.
VA Policy on Cannabis
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not prescribe or recommend cannabis because it remains illegal under federal law. However, veterans will not lose their VA benefits for using cannabis in states where it is legal. Doctors at VA facilities can discuss cannabis use but cannot provide official recommendations.
Firearms and Federal Restrictions
Because cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug, veterans who use medical marijuana are subject to the same federal firearm restrictions as any other patient. This means that under federal law, they are considered “unlawful users” and ineligible to purchase firearms through licensed dealers.
Illinois Protections for Veterans
At the state level, Illinois does not automatically revoke FOID or CCL rights for veterans who are registered cannabis patients. Veterans can still apply for or maintain these licenses unless they show signs of misuse or addiction. This creates some breathing room for veterans in Illinois, though it does not erase the federal risks.
Balancing Rights and Treatment
Veterans in Illinois often face a difficult choice: using cannabis for legitimate medical needs versus maintaining firearm rights under federal law. Until federal cannabis reform is passed, this conflict will continue, leaving veterans to carefully weigh their health priorities and personal freedoms.
What Future Federal Reform Could Mean
Federal reform would shape the cannabis and firearm question more than any single state policy. Here is how the main paths could change things.
If cannabis is rescheduled
Rescheduling would keep cannabis on the federal controlled substances list but place it in a lower schedule. That could open the door to FDA-approved prescriptions and medical oversight. The federal firearm ban targets “unlawful users” of controlled substances. If a person uses an FDA-approved cannabis medicine as prescribed, the federal view of that use could change. State medical programs that are not prescription-based might still fall into a gray area until the ATF updates its guidance. In other words, rescheduling could reduce risk for some patients, but it may not fully resolve it for cardholders using state-regulated products.
If cannabis is descheduled
Descheduling would remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act. That would likely end the “unlawful user” firearm disability for cannabis users because the substance would no longer be a controlled drug under federal law. ATF would still need to revise purchase forms and guidance, and Congress or agencies could add new rules tied to impairment, but the core conflict would largely disappear.
Potential changes to ATF Form 4473
ATF Form 4473 currently asks about marijuana use and warns that it is unlawful under federal law. After rescheduling or descheduling, ATF would need to revise or remove that language. Dealers would get new compliance instructions. Buyers would have clearer rules about disclosures, which would reduce the risk of denied sales or false-statement charges.
Impact on FOID and CCL rules
FOID and CCL are state tools. Illinois could keep its permit standards focused on safety, training, and disqualifying crimes. If federal law changes, the state would likely update any references that rely on the federal definition of “unlawful user.” The result would be a cleaner alignment: safe storage and sober carry would remain priorities, but lawful cannabis use would be less likely to affect eligibility by itself.
Know Before You Buy: FOID and CCL Checklist
Before applying for or renewing your Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) or Concealed Carry License (CCL) in Illinois, keep these points in mind:
- Be honest on federal forms. Lying about cannabis use on ATF Form 4473 is a federal crime.
- Keep cannabis and firearms separate. Never carry or use them at the same time, and store each securely.
- Know state vs. federal differences. Illinois allows both cannabis use and firearm licensing, but federal law still treats marijuana as a controlled substance.
- Check your eligibility. Past drug abuse, violent offenses, or showing signs of addiction can disqualify you from FOID or CCL approval.
- Stay updated. Laws are changing quickly. Watch for federal reform or new state rules that may affect how cannabis and firearms are regulated.
This checklist isn’t legal advice, but it’s a simple way to stay informed and avoid the biggest risks before you combine cannabis use with firearm ownership in Illinois.
FAQs About Cannabis and Gun Laws in Illinois
Can Illinois dispensaries share patient info with law enforcement?
Patient data in Illinois is protected by state medical cannabis rules. Dispensaries and the state do not send the registry to federal firearm background checks. Information can be disclosed only for lawful purposes, such as a valid court order or specific law enforcement investigations. Routine gun purchase checks do not include the medical cannabis registry.
What happens if you lie on the ATF form?
Lying on Form 4473 is a federal crime. It can lead to denied purchase, criminal charges, fines, and possible prison time. It can also trigger a lifetime firearm prohibition. Always answer truthfully.
Do recreational cannabis users face the same restrictions as MMJ patients?
Yes. Federal firearm restrictions apply to marijuana use in any form. Illinois does not revoke FOID or CCL based on lawful adult use alone, but federal law still controls licensed gun purchases and can affect possession in federal settings.
Can police search my home if I have both cannabis and firearms?
Police generally need consent, a warrant, or probable cause. Owning both items, when each is legal under state law, is not by itself a basis for a search. That said, signs of impairment with a firearm, illegal storage, or other criminal activity can create probable cause. Store firearms locked and unloaded, keep cannabis secured, and follow transport and carry rules.
Illinois Cannabis and Gun Laws: Why Elevate Wants to Help
Here at Elevate Holistics, we understand that cannabis laws and regulations are a bit confusing. (Okay, a lot confusing.) That’s why we’re here to help. We want to give you all the information you need to feel comfortable obtaining your Illinois medical marijuana card.
You must remember that, per federal law, gun ownership and cannabis consumption are illegal. But, Illinois state police are not actively pursuing these regulations. Rather, they are allowing safe, cautious cannabis consumers to have their CCL or FOID, no problem.
If you’re still curious about Illinois cannabis laws, or gun laws and cannabis as a whole, check out what else Elevate has to say. Soon, you’ll be more than confident going into your telehealth visit for your IL MMJ card.
