How Do I Register My Assault Rifle in Illinois?
If you’re a resident of Illinois and own an assault rifle, you’re likely aware that the state has specific laws and regulations governing its possession and registration. The Illinois State Police (ISP) is responsible for maintaining a registry of all firearms, including assault rifles. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of registering your assault rifle in Illinois.
What is an Assault Rifle?
Before we dive into the registration process, it’s essential to define what an assault rifle is. According to Illinois law, an assault rifle is a semi-automatic rifle that has a detachable magazine and one or more of the following features:
- A folding or collapsible stock
- A grenade launcher or flare launcher
- A flash suppressor or silencer
- A muzzle brake or muzzle compensator
- A bayonet mount
Examples of assault rifles include firearms such as the AK-47, AR-15, and M-16.
Do I Need to Register My Assault Rifle?
Yes, Illinois law requires the registration of all assault rifles. Specifically, the Illinois Firearms Owners Identification (FOID) Card Act requires all owners of assault rifles to register their firearms with the ISP.
Who is Required to Register?
According to Illinois law, any person who owns an assault rifle must register it within 30 days of acquisition. This includes:
- Residents of Illinois
- Non-residents who keep the assault rifle in Illinois
- Businesses and individuals who manufacture, import, or sell assault rifles
How Do I Register My Assault Rifle?
To register your assault rifle in Illinois, follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents
- A completed Illinois Assault Rifle Registration Card (Form SP 640)
- A valid Firearms Owners Identification (FOID) Card
- A copy of the assault rifle’s serial number
- Proof of identity and residency
- A $10 registration fee (check or money order payable to the Illinois State Police)
- Fill Out the Registration Form
- Complete the Illinois Assault Rifle Registration Card (Form SP 640) accurately and legibly
- Make sure to include all required information, including the serial number, make, model, and caliber of the assault rifle
- Submit the Registration Form
- Mail the completed registration form, supporting documents, and registration fee to:
- Illinois State Police
- Firearm Services Bureau
- 1500 7th Street, 3rd Floor
- Springfield, IL 62703
Table: Assault Rifle Registration Information
| Information Required | Form Field | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Name and Address | Block A | Your name and current address |
| Assault Rifle Information | Block B | Make, model, serial number, and caliber of the assault rifle |
| FOID Card Number | Block C | Your FOID card number |
| Proof of Identity and Residency | Block D | Copy of ID and proof of residency |
| Registration Fee | Block E | $10 registration fee (check or money order) |
What Happens After Registration?
Once the ISP receives your registration application, they will:
- Verify Information: Verify the accuracy of the information provided on the registration form
- Issue a Registration Certificate: Issue a registration certificate for the assault rifle, which will be mailed to you
- Create a Record: Enter your assault rifle into the Illinois State Police’s firearm registration database
Important:
- Keep Your Registration Certificate Safe: Store your registration certificate in a secure location, as it will be required to be surrendered to the ISP in the event of a transfer, sale, or loss of the assault rifle.
- Report Lost or Stolen Assault Rifles: Immediately report any lost or stolen assault rifles to the ISP and local law enforcement.
- Comply with Illinois Law: Failure to register your assault rifle or provide false information on the registration form can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
In conclusion, registering your assault rifle in Illinois is a straightforward process that requires gathering required documents, filling out the registration form, and submitting it to the ISP. Remember to keep your registration certificate safe, report any lost or stolen assault rifles, and comply with Illinois law.
