Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes
Firearm Mentor offers Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes for first-time applicants and current license holders who need renewal training. Learn from experienced instructor Marcus Melnick and complete your certification or renewal training in a supportive, student-centered environment.
Firearm Mentor provides Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes for new applicants and current license holders seeking renewal training. Our courses cover Illinois law, firearm safety, defensive mindset, and the required live-fire qualification.
Upcoming Concealed to Carry Classes and Safety Seminars.
Click on the date, below to register.
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
The Firearm Mentor
Meet your instructor
Students attending our Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes receive instruction from experienced trainer Marcus Melinick in a supportive, student-focused environment. His practical approach combines real-world experience with a commitment to safe and responsible firearm ownership.
- Certified Illinois Concealed Carry Instructor
- 25 Year Experienced Risk Manager and Consultant
- Student-Centered Teaching Approach
- Practical, Real-World Instruction
- Dedicated to Safe and Responsible Firearm Ownership
"Having done both the CCL permit and the renewal courses, really enjoyed the very casual atmosphere and the tremendous amount of detailed information. Marcus's expertise is second to none and his ability to teach is amazing."
In our classes you will learn:
Personal safety through risk management.
- Illinois Laws and Regulations
Understand the legal requirements and responsibilities. - Safe firearm handling and storage practices
Learn safe, responsible handling and secure storage. - Situational awareness and defensive mindset principles
Develop awareness and skills to make better decisions. - Range qualification requirements
Receive instruction and complete your range qualification. - Steps for applying for or renewing your Illinois Concealed Carry License
We guide you through the process from start to finish.
11,500+ Students Trained
For Beginners & Experienced Shooters
Many renewal students cannot remember their initial certification instructor or company. We're not just trying to deliver a one-time certification class. We care about our customers' long-term safety and education, and we give the tools to support continuing education (YouTube Channel, Facebook Page, Newsletter) to support that. We make deep, long-lasting connections. Once you take a class from us, we have a relationship for life. Immerse yourself in the world of the #FirearmMentor.
"I had an excellent experience with Firearm Mentor. Marcus was an amazing teacher-he was incredibly informative, very easy to follow, and explained everything in a clear, approachable way. He also brought a great sense of humor to the class, which made the learning experience fun and engaging. His teaching style made the material feel comfortable and approachable.
The time honestly went by so fast. I learned a lot and felt much more confidently by the end of the course.
On top of that, the range itself was very nice, clean and well maintained, which made the overall experience even better. I would highly recommend Firearm Mentor to anyone looking for high-quality instruction in a great environment."
Illinois Concealed Carry Classes
Our Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes meet state training requirements for both first-time applicants and license renewal students. Courses include classroom instruction, Illinois firearm laws, safety training, and the required range qualification.
Our training is different. We will come to you and teach in your home or place of business for classroom training, followed by qualification / range time.
Curriculum
Concealed Carry Curriculum offered by FIREARM MENTOR meets the minimum requirements to obtain your concealed carry permit. The first part of the Illinois Concealed Carry Curriculum resembles an NRA Basic Pistol Course. The second part covers statutory law (Illinois Concealed Carry Act, FOID Act, and Gun Control Act of 1968), relevant case law affecting concealed carry, and scenario based discussion.
The third part consists of range qualifications. The order of topics is dynamic and subject to change. Questions may drive discussion of topics earlier than scheduled, moving the topics around different time slots to accommodate student interests.
If you knew the day you would be a victim of a violent crime, you would schedule an appointment with the police. Until criminals provide advance warning, you're on your own. Learn to protect yourself. Enroll in a firearms self-defense class, today.
Private Classes
Looking for a more personalized training experience? Firearm Mentor offers private firearms instruction for individuals, families, and small groups. Training can be customized to your experience level, goals, schedule, and specific areas of interest.
We will come to your place of business or home and deliver the concealed carry curriculum to private groups. Contact us to arrange for a class.
If a date is reserved for a private class, but the participant doesn't respond 7 days prior to the reserved date, the class will be considered cancelled. We can always schedule future dates.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are for individuals or groups, and can be tailored to the individual needs. Each course is different, but all courses cover basic firearm safety.
Firearm Lesson Experience Levels
- First-Time Firearm Owners
- Concealed Carry Preparation
- Personal Protection Strategies
- Firearm Safety Fundamentals
- Home Defense Concepts
- Firearm Care & Maintenance
Firearm Mentor's training extends beyond firearms instruction. Through Stress2Logic, Marcus Melnick provides educational programs that help individuals and organizations improve safety, awareness, and decision-making skills.
Additional Training & Educational Programs:
In addition to Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes, Firearm Mentor and Stress2Logic provide specialized training programs designed to improve personal safety, situational awareness, emergency preparedness, communication skills, and decision-making under stress.
Active Shooter Response & Survival
Learn practical response strategies based on the FBI's Run, Hide, Fight framework, enhanced through interactive stress-inoculation exercises.
Managing Agitated People & De-Escalation
Training for businesses, healthcare professionals, educators, and organizations seeking to improve communication and conflict management skills.
Personal Safety & Situational Awareness
Develop the mindset and skills needed to recognize threats, avoid dangerous situations, and make better decisions under stress.
Scam Prevention & Street Smarts
Programs designed to help seniors, professionals, small business owners, and community members recognize scams and reduce their risk of becoming victims.
Overcoming the Hot Stress Mess
Based on Marcus Melnick's TEDx presentation, this program teaches techniques for managing stress and improving decision-making during challenging situations.
Illinois Concealed Carry Classes FAQs
If you're considering Illinois Concealed Carry Classes, you likely have questions about eligibility, training requirements, equipment, and the licensing process. Whether you're applying for your first Concealed Carry License or attending Illinois Concealed Carry Certification & Renewal Classes to renew your permit, these frequently asked questions will help you better understand what to expect before class.
1. Do I need a FOID Card to take a concealed carry class?
No. A FOID card is not required to attend the class, but you will need a valid FOID card before applying for your Illinois Concealed Carry License.
2. What are the requirements to obtain an Illinois Concealed Carry License?
Applicants must be at least 21 years old, have a valid FOID card, meet state eligibility requirements, and successfully complete the required 16-hour firearms training course.
3. Do I need my own firearm for class?
No. Firearm Mentor can provide firearms and ammunition for training. Students are welcome to bring and qualify with their own firearm if they choose.
4. Is there an online concealed carry class?
No. Illinois requires concealed carry training to be completed in person, including both classroom instruction and live-fire qualification.
5. What does the Illinois Concealed Carry Class cover?
The course includes firearm safety, handgun fundamentals, Illinois firearm laws, self-defense concepts, and the required live-fire qualification. The training meets Illinois State Police requirements for obtaining a Concealed Carry License
Not seeing a class or date you're looking for?
Browse our full curriculum below. Tap any class to see details and request a date.
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
Initial Concealed to Carry Certification
The comprehensive 16 hour Initial Concealed Carry Certification course, taught over two days by Marcus Melnick. It equips you with the knowledge you need to apply for your Illinois license and to carry confidently across 39 states. What you will learn Personal safety through risk management Illinois laws and regulations, and the responsibilities that come with them Safe firearm handling and secure storage practices Situational awareness and defensive mindset principles Range qualification, with instruction and completion of your qualification How to apply for your Illinois Concealed Carry...
Continued on full class page below.
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
Concealed to Carry Renewal Certification
The 4 hour Concealed Carry Renewal Certification course, required every five years, for current Illinois license holders. It covers the refresher on Illinois law, safe handling and the defensive mindset, plus your live fire qualification. Many renewal students cannot remember who certified them the first time. We are not looking to deliver a one-time certification class. Once you take a class from us you get continuing education through our YouTube channel, Facebook page and newsletter, and you have a relationship with us for life. Before you register Pre-registration and pre-payment are...
Continued on full class page below.
Concealed Carry Fundamentals
Concealed Carry Fundamentals
Dashboard waiver card verification
Advanced Defensive Shooting
Advanced Defensive Shooting
A two-day intensive course covering advanced marksmanship, shooting on the move, low-light scenarios, and stress inoculation drills.
Online Safety Seminar
Online Safety Seminar
A free virtual seminar reviewing the fundamentals of firearms safety. Great for beginners or as a refresher.
Basic Pistol Course
Basic Pistol Course
A hands-on introductory pistol course covering safety, marksmanship fundamentals, and live-fire exercises. All experience levels welcome.
Looking to learn at your own pace?
Browse our on-demand e-learning courses. Study anytime, anywhere, and earn certificates of completion.
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