SPRINGFIELD (AP) — The Illinois State Police is phasing out paper applications for firearm owner identification cards.
The agency says Monday is the last day to submit paper applications. Only online applications will be accepted beginning March 16.
Officials say the change streamlines and modernizes the application process, bringing it in line with its concealed-carry permit process. People who don’t have computers still will be able to use the alternative call-center method.
The agency also is eliminating the requirement for FOID and concealed-carry applicants to get a digital identification. All new and returning concealed-carry applicants must register with the state police by providing information from their driver’s license or state ID card, creating a username and password and answering security questions.
Federally licensed firearms dealers can conduct background checks through the site.