FAQ | Godfrey, Illinois | Halo Defense Training & Tactics

Frequently Asked Questions

My CCL is about to expire how do I renew it?

The State of Illinois requires a 3 Hour Renewal course to reapply for your Concealed Carry License. The class must include all applicable State/Federal laws relating to ownerhsip, storage, carry and transportation of a firearm (2 hours) and weapons handling, including the live fire qualification (1 hour).
Where are the Classes, and where is the Range?"

Currently our classroom and range is located in East Alton, Illinois. Further information and directions will be provided upon registration. Do you have a party of six or more interested in training and access to a range, Halo is equiped to travel. Contact Manny at Manny@HaloDefenseTactics.com
I live in Missouri can I get a non-resident Illinois Concealed Carry License?

No. According to the Illinois Concealed Carry Act 430 Illinois Compiled Statute (I.L.C.S.) 66/40 (a), Illinois will only issue a License to a State with substantionally similar firearm ownership laws. As of yet Illinois will issue a concealed carry license to Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas and Virginia.
Do I need my Illinois Firearms Ownership Identification (F.O.I.D.) card to take the class?

No. You do not need your F.O.I.D. card to attend the class; however, you will need it to apply for you concealed carry license. If, however, you decide to take the course without a F.O.I.D. card, Halo Defense Training & Tactics is not responsible if the State does not issue either your F.O.I.D. card or Concealed Carry card.
Do I Need Prior Experience with Handguns?

No prior experience is required to take the Illinois 16/8 C.C. course. We have taught a wide range of experience. Our goal is to create a foundation and build upon that foundation. However, new shooters may benefit from an hour or two of private training with one of our instructors. During the private session, we'll go over basic safety, firearm nomenclature, firearm familiarization, and depending on the length of your session, we will do some live fire practice. To schedule private sessions, send an email to manny@halodefensetactics.com.
How Much Ammo do I Need?

We recommend you bring 250 rounds. On the range you will participate in several drills. These drills are to practice your weapons handling and fundamentals along with provide confidence in the utilization of your firearm. 30 rounds will be set aside for the qualification portion of the course, while the remainder will be utilized for our range drills. More than likely you will not shoot all 250 rounds, however this amount is to account for the different levels of experience.
What Handgun can I Qualify with?

The law indicates that you may qualify with any concealable handgun of any caliber. We do ask that you refrain from using magnum loads during qualification.
Do I Need to Bring a Holster?

Yes, a waist mounted holster is required for the range. You may bring either an inside or outside the waistband holster; however, an outside the waist holster may prove to be easier for the range portion of the class. Also, if you have a holster you will use for "Every Day Carry," bring it for our classroom portion. We will go over the pros and cons of the different holsters and practicing drawing from a concealed holster.
Do I Need my Own Gun?

Yes. Please have your gun unloaded and in a case (soft/hard). Please leave any and all ammunition secured and concealed in your vehicle during the classroom portion. If you are having issues with your firearm or do not own a firearm, we have limited pistols for rent ($25.00 which covers ammo cost). If a firearm is needed, please notify us in advance by email, Manny@HaloDefenseTactics.com, as our inventory is limited.
What Prior Training Can Be Accepted?

The Illinois State Police has created a list of acceptable prior training. You can review the list at https://www.isp.state.il.us/appriss/ccw/CCWPriorTrainingCredit.pdf
Do I Have to Take Finger Prints to Get My Permit?

Fingerprints are optional and not required. However, providing your fingerprints, makes the background check easier allowing you to recieve your CCL quicker. If you don't provide your fingerprints, they may take an extra 30 days (above the 90 days) to review your background.
Are My Non-Resident CCW Permits Enough to Get the Credit?

The Illinois State Police (ISP) expects you will provide HALO DEFENSE TRAINING & TACTICS (as well as ISP upon your application) actual training certificates that prove you participated in instructor lead training to comply with the requirements for your non-resident CCW permit.
How do I get the Military Exemption and How Much is the Class?

The Illinois State Police (ISP) allows for an 8-hour exemption for Active, Retired, or Honorably Discharged members of the United States Armed Forces. ISP prefers a DD-214 form as certification, and to date have not authorized us to accept other documentation as proof. The 8 hour (2nd day course) is $115.00. Halo understands those in the military may like a refresher in the fundamentals and optionally offers those in the military to attend the full 16 hour course for the price of the 8 course.
How do I get the 4 Hour Exemption, and How Much is the Class?"

The Illinois State Police allows for a 4-hour exemption for several different certifications including Hunters Safety, Utah Permit Class, and many other Non-Resident Permit Classes. However, we have not been able to find a viable way to exclude 4 hours from our curriculum. For the 4-hour credit, we allow a discounted course fee of $130.00.
I have a Pistol/Firearm Training Certificate. How much credit do I get?

If you have an NRA Basic Pistol, NRA Personal Protection Inside the Home, or NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home certificate, you will be granted the maximum 8-hour exemption. The 8 hour (2nd day course) is $115.00.