Section 1720.10  Course Requirements

 

a)         Minimum Hours

 

1)         The Board, from time to time, shall set the minimum number of hours in prescribed subjects of the Minimum Standards Basic Law Enforcement Officers Training Course.  An hour of instruction is defined as being 50 minutes of actual instruction plus a 10 minute recess period.

 

2)         The Board strongly recommends that the minimum number of hours set by the Board be exceeded whenever possible.

 

b)         The Minimum Standards Basic Law Enforcement Officers Training Course shall consist of concentrated study which is continuous and full time.

 

c)         The Basic Course shall cover the prescribed subjects with the instructional time as specified in the approved curriculum and instructor's guides.

 

d)         Training in advanced and specialized areas of police work must follow curricula approved by the Board to be reimbursable.

 

e)         In-service refresher type training on a departmental or regional level should be designed to meet particular problems of that locale.  Therefore, each proposed course of this type shall be considered for reimbursement on an individual basis by the Board.

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.15  Equivalency Examination

 

a)         The Executive Director may grant certification or a waiver of basic training requirements set forth by the Board if, by reason of extensive prior experience as a law enforcement officer or prior experience as a county corrections officer, the basic training requirement is illogical or unreasonable.  The Executive Director may require the applicant to take and successfully pass the Board's Equivalency Examination if the Executive Director, in reviewing prior experience and training, determines that there is a need for the applicant to demonstrate current knowledge of Illinois law and procedures.  Factors the Executive Director shall consider in determining the need for the Equivalency Exam shall include, but not be limited to, the type and length of prior experience as a law enforcement or county corrections officer, prior certificates for training, and education.

 

b)         The Board shall establish a minimum passing score.  In establishing a minimum score, the Board will ensure that the score reflects the knowledge and competency of the applicant.  Any applicant who did not successfully complete the Trainee Basic Law Enforcement or Correctional Officers Training Course or a State academy, and is seeking certification based on other training must successfully pass the Equivalency Examination. Prior to December 15, 2022, the minimum passing score will be established by the Board within the range of 60 to 80% of the total score. Beginning, December 15, 2022, the acceptable passing score shall be 66%.

 

c)         The content of the test shall include, but not be limited to, material in the areas specified in Section 7(a) of the Illinois Police Training Act (Act) and subjects covered in the Peace Officer and Probation Officer Firearm Training Act [50 ILCS 710].

 

d)         The Board shall at least biennially review the content of the examination and minimum passing score to ensure accuracy and reliability.

 

e)         Beginning December 15, 2022, an officer may challenge the Equivalency Examination three times in their career.

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.20  Minimum Requirements of the Trainee

 

a)         Regular attendance at all sessions is required.  However, excused absences may be granted by the Academy Director under certain limited circumstances beyond the trainee's control, which may include, but not be limited to, a death in the family, illness, response to a court subpoena, disability, or a transportation breakdown.  In order to successfully complete the course, absences must not exceed ten percent of the total hours of instruction for any Board certified course of instruction.

 

b)         Trainees shall maintain an adequate classroom notebook.  Factors to be considered in rating the notebook are neatness, legibility, accuracy and sufficiency of content.  "Adequate", for purposes of this subsection, refers to:

 

1)         Neatness.  Requires concise organization of the notes.  All notes and handouts will be placed in the book or received during the course. Dividers into topics are required.

 

2)         Legibility.  Put down notes in brief, clear complete sentences.  Underline the important items.  Lined notebooks or typing paper for typing should be used.

 

3)         Accuracy.  The notes taken in class must precisely reflect the content of the class.

 

4)         Sufficiency of content.  Notes should be in the trainee's own words.  The trainee should strive to achieve condensation of the material clearly and concisely.

 

c)         Trainees shall successfully complete the firearm training course as required by the Peace Officer and Probation Officer Firearm Training Act [50 ILCS 710].

 

d)         An overall average of 70% must be achieved on all written examinations given during any course of training.  Separate evaluation of any skill-oriented performance requirements shall be made by the Academy Director on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.

 

e)         The Academy Director shall establish standards of conduct for the trainee while enrolled at the academy.  These shall include demeanor, deportment and compliance with the discipline and regulations of the school or course.  Receipt of certification of the successful completion of the course from the academy shall be deemed proof that the trainee has complied with the requirements of this subsection.

 

f)         Each trainee who has not been awarded a certificate attesting to the trainee's successful completion of the Minimum Standards Basic Law Enforcement Training Course as prescribed by the Board within 6 months after the trainee's initial full-time employment must forfeit the trainee's position, or the employing agency must obtain a special extension waiver from the Board extending the period for compliance.  Such waivers shall be issued only for good and justifiable reasons, and in no case shall extend more than 90 days beyond the initial 6 months. [50 ILCS 705/8.1(a)] Good and justifiable reasons for a waiver include, but are not limited to, unavailability of academy space for training, illness or disability, and the need for the trainee to serve the trainee's department during the initial 6 month period.

 

g)         Each trainee shall bring such equipment as required by the Course Director.

 

h)         A trainee shall pass the State Comprehensive certification examination to qualify as a permanent law enforcement or permanent correctional officer, except as is otherwise provided for in the Illinois Police Training Act.

 

1)         The test shall be in writing or conducted electronically.  It shall be administered by the staff of the Board, or such other testing company or association expressly authorized by the Board.

 

2)         The Board shall establish a minimum passing score.  In establishing the minimum passing score, the Board will ensure that the score reflects the knowledge and competency of the trainee for law enforcement or correctional work.  The minimum passing score will be established by the Board within the range of 60 to 80% of the total score.  At the beginning of each training course the minimum passing score will be announced. Beginning December 15, 2022, the minimum passing score is 66%.

 

3)         The content of the Comprehensive Examination for law enforcement officers may include, but not be limited to, material in the areas specified in Section 7(b) of the Illinois Police Training Act and subjects covered in the Peace Officer and Probation Officer Firearm Training Act [50 ILCS 710].

 

4)         The content of the test for correctional officers may include, but not be limited to, material in the areas specified in 20 Ill. Adm. Code 1750.202 and subjects covered in the Peace Officer Firearm Training Act.

 

5)         The Board shall at least biennially review the content of the Comprehensive Examination and minimum passing score to ensure they are current and reliable.

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.25  Procedures for Administration of Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers Certification Examination

 

a)         The Comprehensive Examination will be administered to all trainee law enforcement and correctional officers who successfully complete the Trainee Basic Law Enforcement or Correctional Officers Training Course at a State-certified academy.

 

b)         Trainees who successfully pass the Comprehensive Examination shall be eligible to receive a certification attesting to the trainee's successful completion of the Minimum Standard Basic Law Enforcement or Correctional Training Requirements.

 

c)         Certification Examination scores will be reported in writing to the Chief Administrator of the trainee's employing agency within 14 days after the examination date.

 

d)         Trainees are required to successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination on one occasion only.  There are no requirements for re-qualification.

 

e)         Only trainees who have successfully completed the Trainee Basic Training Law Enforcement or Correctional Officers Training Course with an average minimum score of 70%, as certified by the Academy Director, are eligible to take the Comprehensive Examination.

 

f)         Each trainee must be a full-time law enforcement or correctional officer and be employed by a local law enforcement agency.

 

g)         In the event the trainee fails to pass the Comprehensive Examination on the initial administration, the trainee will be allowed to re-take the Comprehensive Examination a maximum of 2 more times with respect to each appointment.

 

h)         In order to be eligible to re-take the Comprehensive Examination, a written request must be submitted to the Board by the Chief Administrator of the trainee's employing agency.  Upon receipt of the written request, the Board shall administer the re-take examination, except as may otherwise be provided in subsection (o).

 

i)          Trainees who initially fail to pass the Comprehensive Examination will be administered an alternate version of the Comprehensive Examination on any successive re-takes.

 

j)          The Board will establish and publish the locations with the dates and times for the administration of re-take Certification Examinations.  Such exams will be given at least twice every 6 months.

 

k)         In the event that a trainee fails to successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination and is discharged as an employee by a law enforcement agency, trainee is nevertheless eligible to re-take the Comprehensive Examination if employed by another local law enforcement agency.  The trainee will be viewed as a new trainee by the Board and will be granted all rights that are provided to new trainees as specified in this Part.

 

l)          The Comprehensive Examination will be administered on site at the academies or at a special testing facility, at the conclusion of the last week of the basic course.

 

m)        The trainee will have 3.5 hours to complete the Comprehensive Examination.  A trainee will be excused from completing the examination if the trainee is ill and excused by the proctor.

 

n)         Individuals allowed within the testing area will be limited to Board-approved examination proctors and those who are taking the Certification Examination.

 

o)         Any trainee who is uncooperative, disruptive or is thought to be cheating during the administration of the Comprehensive Examination will be ordered by the proctor to turn in the trainee examination and to leave the examination area.  A complete written report of the incident will then be submitted to the Executive Director of the Board and to the Chief Administrator of the trainee's employing agency.  The offending trainee shall have the opportunity within 7 days to submit a written report to the Executive Director describing the trainee's version of the event.  In such cases it will be left to the discretion of the Executive Director to determine whether the trainee has forfeited the examination and whether the trainee is eligible to re-take the Comprehensive Examination.  The Executive Director's determination will be based on the nature of the trainee's misbehavior and on the supporting evidence of such misbehavior.

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.30  School Standards and Requirements

 

a)         Each academy or course certified by the Board shall operate, for the duration of the academy or course, under a full-time Academy Director approved by the Executive Director of the Board.

 

b)         The Academy Director shall assume the responsibility of the overall supervision of the school, including the preparation and grading of examinations, rating of classroom notebooks, arranging for qualified instructors, providing for food and lodging for the trainees where appropriate, arranging for adequate training facilities such as classrooms, props, gymnasium and safe firearms ranges, and the conduct and discipline of the trainees.

 

c)         The Academy Director shall maintain complete records on each trainee and, at the conclusion of the course, submit those records to the Executive Director of the Board for filing in such form as he may require.  A copy of the performance record of each trainee shall also be furnished to the trainee's employing agency, including demeanor and deportment of the trainee.

 

d)         The Academy Director shall make a final determination as to whether a trainee has satisfactorily passed all reasonable standards and requirements of a particular course of training.  The Academy Director shall also have the authority to dismiss from the school any trainee prior to the completion of the course, if, in the opinion of the Academy Director, the trainee is unable or unwilling to satisfactorily complete the prescribed course of training.  Immediately upon dismissal action, the Academy Director shall submit a written report to the Executive Director and the trainee's employing agency.

 

e)         The Academy Director shall set reasonable fees for any training course, including tuition and room and board where applicable.  The local governmental agency employing the trainee shall pay the fees directly to the training school or employing agency.

 

f)         Approval of Training Course

 

1)         A formal letter of application for certification of a training course under the Illinois Police Training Act must be submitted to the Executive Director by the sponsoring agency and/or the course Director.  The application must include course objectives, curriculum outline, a brief description of what is taught under each topic, the complete schedule of the school (hour by hour and day by day and lesson plans) and the names and qualifications of the instructors to be used.  The application must also list the specific location of the physical facilities to be used, including firearms ranges and detailed justification regarding fees to be charged, as set forth in subsection (e).  Applications shall be submitted at least 45 days prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board.

 

2)         After the complete program of the proposed course is evaluated, the applicant will be notified by the Executive Director as to whether the course is approved or disapproved.

 

g)         The Academy Director shall have the responsibility of administering the Board's Physical Fitness Training Standards to all trainees before the trainees commence the Minimum Standard Basic Law Enforcement Training Course.  A trainee must successfully meet the Board's Physical Fitness Training Standards as described in subsection (h).

 

h)         Every trainee shall be required to perform and successfully complete all of the Board's physical fitness (POWER) tests in the sequence delineated in this Section.  The tests shall be as follows:

 

1)         Every trainee shall meet the Board's sit and reach standard as defined in Appendix A.

 

2)         Every trainee shall meet the Board's one minute sit-up standard as defined in Appendix A.

 

3)         Every trainee shall meet the Board's benchpress standard as defined in Appendix A.

 

4)         Every trainee shall meet the Board's 1.5 mile run standard as defined in Appendix A.

 

i)          If a trainee fails any standard listed in subsection (h), the Academy Director is authorized to administer a re-test on that specific standard on one more occasion.  A trainee only needs to retake the standards of the sequence he or she failed.  The re-test must be administered between 48 and 72 hours after the conclusion of the first test.

 

j)          Within the final week of the academy, the trainee must complete the sequence of physical fitness tests set forth in subsection (h) again and the results of these tests must be shared with the Board for analysis.

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.35  Academy Entrance Qualifications

 

a)         A person shall not be eligible to enter a Board-certified Minimum Standards Basic Training Course if:

 

1)         the Board determines that person is not a person of good character; or

 

2)         that person has been convicted of a felony, decertifiable misdemeanor as prescribed in Section 6 of the Illinois Police Training Act, or any other crime involving moral turpitude.

 

b)         Moral turpitude includes, but is not limited to, actions that contravene the need to protect the public, fail to meet the integrity of the profession, or do not preserve the administration of justice from reproach.

 

c)         An applicant's employer agency shall submit to the academy an authorization to obtain and release information and a written certification within 30 days prior to the first day of basic training.  The written certification shall attest that the applicant's background has been checked and verified and that the applicant meets the requirements set forth in subsection (a) and Section 6 of the Illinois Police Training Act.

 

d)         The written certification shall contain the following information:

 

1)         Name and address of employer agency;

 

2)         Name and address of applicant;

 

3)         Verification that the criminal history of the applicant has been examined and contains no violation as specified in the Illinois Police Training Act or this Part;

 

4)         Verification that the personal history of the applicant has been examined and that the applicant is of good character; and

 

5)         Dated signatures of the agency head on the application with an attestation from the applicant that the information is true and correct.

 

e)         The Academy Director shall review the qualifications of the applicant within the first 2 weeks of training.  An applicant's continued participation in the academy is conditional upon this review.

 

f)         In the event that the Academy Director determines that an applicant does not meet the standards set forth by law, the applicant's employer agency shall be notified in writing that the applicant is not eligible to enter the academy and the applicant shall be sent home.  Reasons for the denial shall be in writing.

 

g)         Any employer agency who wishes to appeal the decision of an Academy Director denying admission into a Board-certified academy shall, within 10 days after receipt of the denial, submit a written request for review to the Executive Director of the Board.

 

h)         The Executive Director of the Board shall have 30 days after receipt of the request to undertake a review of and investigate the Academy Director's decision.  Failure to cooperate in the investigation on the part of the applicant or employer agency may result in the Academy Director's decision being confirmed.

 

i)          The Executive Director shall decide within 30 days whether to confirm or overrule the Academy Director's decision. If the Executive Director confirms the decision, or if the Board in any way believes the individual to lack the requisite characteristics to serve as a law enforcement officer, the Board shall issue a formal Finding of Ineligibility to the applicant and the employing agency.

 

j)          In the event the Executive Director confirms the decision, the applicant's employer agency may, in writing, file an appeal, within 10 days after receipt of the Executive Director's decision.  The Board's Certification Review Panel shall review the record at the next regularly scheduled meeting to confirm or overrule the Executive Director.  The Certification Review Panel shall make its recommendation to the Board at the Board's next regularly scheduled meeting.

 

k)         If an appeal is filed, an applicant will be granted the 90 day waiver in Section 8.1 of the Act to complete basic training.

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.40  Qualification of Police Instructors

 

a)         The instructor shall have a sufficient educational background and/or experience necessary to meet the instructional demands that will be made of him or her.

 

b)         The instructor shall be an individual of personal integrity and have a sincere interest and desire to impart knowledge and experience to the persons under instruction.

 

c)         The Executive Director shall decide whether a particular instructor meets the qualifications set forth in the Section.  This decision shall be based on investigation of the credentials of the particular instructor.

 

(Source:  Amended at 28 Ill. Reg. 13537, effective September 23, 2004)

 

Section 1720.50  Reimbursements

 

a)         The Board will, within certain limitations, reimburse the local governmental agency for one half the cost of training the officer as follows:

 

1)         The trainee's salary during the training period.

 

2)         The cost of lodging and meals incurred when the trainee is required to be away from his residence overnight, subject to the same limitations applicable to employees of the State of Illinois (see 80 Ill. Adm. Code 2800.Appendix A and 3000.400(b)).  If the trainee returns to his residence each night, no lodging or food expense, except for lunch, will be allowed.

 

3)         The cost of necessary travel expense incurred.  Where travel is by car, the standard State mileage rate (see 80 Ill. Adm. Code 3000.300(f)(2)) will be allowed, but travel must be outside the city where the school is located.

 

4)         The cost of school tuition and fees.

 

b)         In no case will reimbursement for any particular course exceed the maximum amount set by statute.  Reimbursement of salary will not be considered if a trainee is required to work during any part of a training course.

 

c)         Reimbursement to Employer

 

1)         Reimbursement will be made by the Board to those local home rule governmental units who have demonstrated their desire to participate in the program by passing the necessary resolution or ordinance and filing a copy of that resolution or ordinance with the Board and who have complied with other provisions of the Act.

 

2)         Reimbursement will also be made by the Board to those local non-home-rule governmental units who employ at least one full-time law enforcement officer as defined in the Act and who have complied with other provisions of the Act.

 

d)         Reimbursement will be made by the Board only once for a particular training course in which the same officer may be enrolled the second time, unless unusual circumstances exist.

 

e)         As a general rule, reimbursement will not be made by the Board for any type of non-basic training unless the trainee has been awarded a certificate attesting to his successful completion of the Minimum Standards Basic Law Enforcement Officers Training Course prior to such training or has been granted a waiver of the Basic Course requirement.

 

(Source:  Amended at 28 Ill. Reg. 13537, effective September 23, 2004)

 

Section 1720.60  Requirements of Participating Local Agencies

 

Each participating law enforcement agency shall:

 

a)         Specifically inform each full-time officer appointed after January 1, 1976 that, as a condition of permanent employment, the officer must successfully complete the prescribed basic course of training within the first 6 months after employment.

 

b)         Fully cooperate with the Board by furnishing reports and information the Board deems necessary to fully implement all provisions of the Act.

 

c)         Not appoint any person as a permanent full-time law enforcement officer who has not been awarded a certificate by the Board attesting to successful completion of the required basic training course within the first 6 months of employment.  A waiver of this training requirement may be obtained under the conditions set forth in Section 1720.20(f).

 

d)         Before a full-time police officer can be vested with law enforcement authority and permitted to patrol the public, each law enforcement agency must activate the certification of an individual by:

 

1)         For newly hired and trained officers,

 

A)        conducting a thorough background check on the individual,

 

B)        confirming the individual completed an approved training academy, and

 

C)        confirming the individual passed the Certification Examination.

 

2)         For previously certified officers,

 

A)        conducting a thorough background check on the individual in accordance with the Illinois Police Training Act,

 

B)        submitting a request for reactivation to the Board, and

 

C)        obtaining notice of reactivation from the Board.

 

3)         For officers who have attended an academy and obtained certification in another state or with an agency of the federal government,

 

A)        confirming certification through out-of-state reciprocity,

 

B)        verifying the individual's prior trainings, and

 

C)        confirming the individual completed all courses prescribed by the Board and passed the Equivalency Exam.

 

e)         Terminate the employment of any law enforcement officer who fails to successfully complete the prescribed basic course within the first 6 months of employment, unless a waiver of the basic course requirement has been granted to the employing agency upon proper application to the Executive Director of the Board.

 

f)         When appointing an officer who has previously been issued a certificate by the Board, the chief administrator of a law enforcement agency must request reactivation of said certification to allow the officer to exercise law enforcement authorities. An individual who is not certified by the Board or whose certified status is inactive shall not function as a law enforcement officer, be assigned the duties of a law enforcement officer by an employing agency, or be authorized to carry firearms under the authority of the employer, except as otherwise authorized to carry a firearm under State or federal law. 50 ILCS 705/8.1. Requests for reactivation will be addressed by the Board in a timely manner. Any request requiring more than 7 days to process will be addressed by a letter from the Board to the law enforcement agency administrator explaining the need for additional time.

 

g)         When appointing an officer who has previously been issued law enforcement certification in another state or by a law enforcement agency of the federal government, the employing law enforcement agency may apply to the Board for an out-of-state reciprocity certification and allow the officer to complete the conditions assigned by the Board based upon the specific coursework already completed.  The officer shall be deemed inactive until the Board issues the certification.  An individual who is not certified by the Board or whose certified status is inactive shall not function as a law enforcement officer, be assigned the duties of a law enforcement officer by an employing agency, or be authorized to carry firearms under the authority of the employer, except as otherwise authorized to carry a firearm under State or federal law. 50 ILCS 705/8.1

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.70  Minimum Training Requirements for Illinois Sheriffs

 

a)         Illinois Sheriffs shall successfully complete 20 hours of training at a Board certified training academy or a Mobile Team Training Unit organized pursuant to the Intergovernmental Law Enforcement Officer's In-Service Training Act [50 ILCS 720].

 

b)         Notwithstanding subsection (a), Illinois Sheriffs may complete up to 20 hours of approved training by successfully completing training programs approved by the Executive Director of the Board.  In order to obtain approval of a training program, the entity seeking approval shall submit the proposed training program to the Executive Director 30 to 90 days prior to the administration of the training program.  The Executive Director shall approve or deny the proposed training program within 14 days following receipt of the proposal.

 

c)         Proposed training programs submitted for approval shall contain an outline of the proposed training program, the dates when the proposed program will be offered, a listing of all instructors offering the proposed program, and the location of the proposed program.

 

d)         In approving training programs, the Board will determine if the training relates to job tasks performed by Illinois Sheriffs within their own department or relates to the duties and responsibilities of Sheriffs in supervising law enforcement or correctional tasks within their own department.  Approved training programs may include, but are not limited to, the local operation of correctional facilities, supervision of deputies or county correctional officers, operation of the Sheriff's department and methods of management regarding operational and administrative departmental quality control for county correctional or local Sheriff's departments.

 

e)         If the Executive Director denies or requests additional information, the program is not approved.  The Executive Director will verify in writing to the entity seeking approval when a training program is approved.

 

f)         The Illinois Local Governmental Law Enforcement Officers Training Board shall maintain a record for each Sheriff in Illinois to determine the amount of hours of approved training each Sheriff receives during each calendar year.

 

g)         Upon the completion of 20 hours of training approved by the Board, the Executive Director of the Board shall issue a certificate to the Sheriff attesting to the completion of training.

 

h)         Upon completion of any Board approved training program, each Sheriff is responsible for submitting proof of completion of training to the Board's office in Springfield, Illinois.

 

i)          Sheriffs who do not complete 20 hours of approved training prior to December 31 of any calendar year for the preceding calendar year will be issued a letter notifying them of non-compliance with the Board's training requirements.

 

(Source:  Amended at 28 Ill. Reg. 13537, effective September 23, 2004)

 

Section 1720.80  Conservator of the Peace Training Course

 

a)         Any person designated as a conservator of the peace under Section 3.1-15-25 of the Illinois Municipal Code [65 ILCS 5/3.1-15-25] or Section 4-7 of the Park District Code [70 ILCS 1205/4-7] must comply with the standards for basic law enforcement officers training as set out in the Police Training Act [50 ILCS 705] and Subpart A of this Part before exercising any police authority.

 

b)         The standards for academy entrance, certification and decertification applicable to law enforcement officers shall be the same for conservators of the peace.

 

c)         Any annual training required of law enforcement officers by State or federal law will be required of conservators of the peace.

 

d)         The time limitations described in Section 1720.20(f) shall not apply to mayors, aldermen, presidents, trustees or park district board members. 

 

(Source:  Added at 32 Ill. Reg. 14749, effective August 28, 2008)

 

Section 1720.90  SAFE-T Act Transitional Certification Authority

 

a)         The Board may allow those officers who were actively employed as of July 1, 2022, but not been issued a certificate in the course of their career, to obtain a transitional certificate and remain eligible for active law enforcement employment.

 

b)         To ensure that all officers who were formerly issued waivers or offered provisionary accommodations meet the training and examination thresholds of certification, the Board will review each such officer on a case by case basis and establish special condition for certification. The procedures for applying, satisfying, and receiving a transitional certificate may include attendance of a course or set of courses and the successful passage of an exam. Upon satisfaction of all established conditions, the officer will be issued a certificate and certificate number.

 

(Source:  Added at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.100  Purpose (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.110  Definitions (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.120  Submission and Review of a Complaint (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.130  Certification Revocation (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.140  Reporting (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.150  Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board Costs and Attorney Fees Fund (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

 

Section 1720.200  Purpose

 

The purpose of this Subpart is to establish and set forth the requirements and guidelines needed to efficiently and effectively implement and enforce the statutory provisions authorizing the certification and the issuance of a permit for a qualified retired law enforcement officer to carry a concealed firearm.

 

(Source:  Added at 30 Ill. Reg. 7925, effective April 11, 2006)

 

Section 1720.210  Statutory Authority

 

This Subpart C is promulgated pursuant to the provisions of the federal Law Enforcement Officers' Safety Act of 2004 (P.L. 108-277; 18 USC 926), as amended, and the authority vested in the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board by the Illinois Police Training Act [50 ILCS 705/10.4] and the Peace Officer Firearm Training Act [50 ILCS 710/3]. This Subpart supplements existing State and federal laws.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.220  Definitions

 

In this Subpart, unless otherwise specified:

 

"Act" means the Illinois Police Training Act [5 ILCS 705].

 

"Applicant" means an individual who submits a completed application form and the required fee to the Board to obtain a permit to carry a concealed firearm, administer a Certification Program, or to be approved as a Range Officer.

 

"Board" means the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board created by Section 3 of the Illinois Police Training Act [50 ILCS 705/3].

 

"Certification Program" means a Board approved program that insures that an applicant meets the requirements of the federal Law Enforcement Officers' Safety Act of 2004 (P.L. 108-277; 18 USC 926), and the program requirements under 20 Ill. Adm. Code 1730.30, and includes a standard course-of-fire and information on the safe and lawful use of a firearm.

 

"Director" means the Executive Director of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board.

 

"Federal Act" means the federal Law Enforcement Officers' Safety Act of 2004 (18 USC 926).

 

"Firearm" means any weapon or device as defined in the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act [430 ILCS 65/1.1].

 

"FOID Card" means an Illinois Firearm Owners Identification Card issued by the Illinois State Police under the Illinois Firearm Owners Identification Card Act [430 ILCS 65].

 

"FOID Card Act" means the Illinois Firearm Owners Identification Card Act [430 ILCS 65].

 

"Organization" means those local governmental agencies described in the Illinois Police Training Act [50 ILCS 705/2].

 

"Law Enforcement Officer" means any police officer of a governmental agency who is primarily responsible for prevention or detection of crime and the enforcement of a criminal code or traffic or highway laws of any state or any political subdivision, and has statutory powers of arrest.

 

"Permit" means a certification issued by the Board that authorizes the named holder to carry a concealed firearm subject to the requirements of the federal Act and this Subpart.

 

"Permittee" means the named holder of a certification by the Board that authorizes the individual to carry a concealed firearm subject to the requirements of the federal Act and this Subpart.

 

"Qualified Retired Law Enforcement Officer" means an individual who:

 

separated from service in good standing from his or her employing agency (other than for reasons of mental disability);

 

was authorized to perform the specified law enforcement functions and held a position for which powers of arrest were granted by statute;

 

served as a law enforcement officer for an aggregate of 10 years or more before his or her separation in good standing from service with his or her agency, or separated from service in good standing (after completing any applicable probationary period of service) due to a service-connected disability as determined by the agency;

 

has met State firearms training and qualifications that are the same as the training and qualifications for active duty officers;

 

is not under the influence of alcohol or another intoxicating or hallucinatory drug or substance; and

 

is not prohibited by federal law from carrying a firearm.

 

"Range Officer" means an individual who has obtained approval from the Board to conduct a Board approved Certification Program for qualified retired law enforcement officers.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.230  Compliance with Laws and Rules

 

a)         All permit holders shall be knowledgeable of and shall comply with all federal, State, and local laws and rules and regulations pertaining to the possession and use of a firearm.

 

b)         Any federal or State statute now existing, or duly enacted in the future, shall supersede any conflicting provision of this Subpart to the extent of the conflict, but shall not affect the remaining provisions of this Subpart.

 

c)         Any violation of this Subpart and applicable federal or State laws may result in denial, suspension, cancellation or revocation of the permit.

 

(Source:  Added at 30 Ill. Reg. 7925, effective April 11, 2006)

 

Section 1720.240  Eligibility Requirements

 

a)         A permit to carry a concealed firearm may be issued to a qualified retired law enforcement officer, as defined in Section 1720.220, who:

 

1)         Before separation from service was a certified law enforcement officer authorized by a local, State or federal law enforcement department, office or agency to carry a firearm in the course and scope of his or her duties;

 

2)         Is in possession of a photographic identification issued by a law enforcement department, office or agency from which the individual separated in good standing as a law enforcement officer;

 

3)         Has authorized an investigation to determine if the applicant has been convicted of any disqualifying criminal offenses, and the results of the investigation reveal no findings of guilt for any disqualifying offenses specified in the Act and the FOID Card Act;

 

4)         Is in possession of a valid FOID Card identifying him or her; and

 

5)         Is a resident of the State of Illinois.

 

b)         Any qualified retired law enforcement officer making application to carry a concealed firearm pursuant to this Subpart shall, by signing the application form, affirm that he or she meets each of the eligibility requirements described in this Subpart under penalty of perjury. 

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.245  Background Investigation

 

a)         The applicant shall authorize the Board, through the Department of State Police, to conduct a complete search of its criminal history records and those of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, and of the files of the Department of Human Services relating to mental health and developmental disabilities and to obtain records of any conviction or patient hospitalization or other medical information that would disqualify the applicant from obtaining a permit or require revocation of a currently valid FOID Card.

 

b)         A certification will not be issued if the results of the background investigation reveal a  finding of guilt for a criminal offense or evidence of a disqualifying condition as specified in the Act or the FOID Card Act.

 

(Source:  Added at 30 Ill. Reg. 7925, effective April 11, 2006)

 

Section 1720.250  Application Procedure

 

a)         Any qualified retired law enforcement officer who wishes to apply for a permit under this Part may request an application in writing or by telephone from the Illinois Retired Officer Concealed Carry Program, P.O. Box 9860, Springfield, Illinois 62791, (217)726-9537 or online at www.ptb.state.il.us.  The Board shall develop the application forms and necessary procedures to implement this program.

 

b)         The completed application shall include a certification that it constitutes a sworn affidavit signed by the applicant attesting to compliance with the eligibility requirements.

 

c)         An applicant must provide evidence of photographic identification issued by his or her prior local, State or federal law enforcement employer verifying the status of the applicant as having been separated from service in good standing.

 

d)         All information on the application or any related document must be complete and accurate to the best of the applicant's knowledge.  Failure to provide the information necessary to complete the application shall preclude any further processing and shall result in denial of the application.

 

e)         An applicant shall pay a $75 (when seeking certification and permit to carry either a revolver or a semi-automatic pistol) or $100 (when seeking certification and permit to carry both a revolver and a semi-automatic pistol) non-refundable fee at the time the initial application is filed.  The Board will review the fee amount annually and make its determination based on the program's operating costs.  Failure to pay the required fee at the time the application is filed shall preclude any further processing and shall result in denial of the application.  Payment shall be in the form of a check or money order. The Board shall not be responsible for cash lost in the mail.

 

f)         An applicant must provide evidence of possession of a valid FOID Card at the time of application.

 

g)         Written notification of approval or denial of an application shall be sent within 60 working days after receipt of a completed application by the Board, unless additional information is needed.  Approved applications shall include additional information regarding the availability of ranges and requirements for the Certification Program.  Failure of the Board to issue a written notification on an application within the 60 working day period shall not be deemed an approval of the application by the Board.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.260  Permits

 

a)         When an applicant has satisfied the requirements of this Subpart, the Board shall issue a concealed firearm permit. The permit shall certify that the permittee is qualified by the State to carry a concealed firearm under federal law and the provisions of this Subpart, and shall contain:

 

1)        The permittee's legal name, as shown on the application;

 

2)        The permittee's date of birth;

 

3)        The type of firearm permitted to be carried;

 

4)        A permit number;

 

5)        The date of issuance and expiration of the permit; and

 

6)        The title of the permit, the State Seal, and instructions to the permit holder.

 

b)         The Board shall mail an approved permit to the applicant's residential address or mailing address shown on the application.

 

c)         The permit to carry a concealed firearm is not valid unless the permit card is in the permittee's possession and accompanied by a valid FOID Card and the photographic identification issued by the law enforcement agency from which the permittee separated from service.

 

d)         The permittee shall present his or her permit upon demand for inspection by a law enforcement officer.

 

e)         All permit cards or other written authorization shall remain the property of the State and the permittee shall surrender his or her card to the Director or a designated representative upon written notice setting forth the reasons for the surrender.

 

f)         All permit holders must maintain a current address and telephone number with the Board and report any changes within 10 days after the change.

 

g)         Permits shall expire 12 months from the date of issue.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.270  Denial, Suspension and Revocation

 

a)         Failure to meet any of the requirements of this Subpart will result in denial of the application. In such cases, a portion of the application fee, not to exceed one-third, shall be retained to cover the administrative costs of processing the applicant. An applicant who is deemed eligible, but fails the Firearms Certification Program, shall not have any portion of the fee refunded.

 

b)         Written notification of an administrative denial of an application shall be sent within 60 working days after receipt of a completed application by the Board. Notice of failure to successfully complete the Certification Program will be given at the test site and will be followed by a written notification with instructions to the permit applicant.  Board failure to issue a written notification within 60 working days shall not be deemed approval of the application or the Certification Program by the Board.

 

c)         A permit applicant must possess a valid FOID Card at the time of issuance of the permit.  Revocation or suspension of rights under the FOID Card Act shall result in automatic revocation or suspension of the permit.

 

d)         A finding of guilt for any of the offenses described in the Act shall result in automatic revocation of the permit.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.280  Firearms Certification Program – Approval

 

a)         A local, State or federal law enforcement department, office or agency wishing to administer a Certification Program to qualified retired law enforcement officers who retired from that department, office or agency shall submit for approval by the Board a curriculum that complies with the requirements established by the Board as set forth in this Part.

 

b)         The course-of-fire standards for a Certification Program must be the same as the course-of-fire used for the annual qualification for that department, office or agency's active law enforcement officers.

 

c)         Applicants must provide evidence of a system used to comply with the requirements of the federal Act and this Subpart.

 

d)         No law enforcement department, office or agency approved to administer a Certification Program shall knowingly certify a qualified retired law enforcement officer qualified under the federal Act to carry a concealed weapon, unless a criminal background investigation of that person has been completed and that investigation reveals no findings of guilt for any criminal offenses or evidence of any disqualifying condition specified in the Act or the FOID Card Act.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.290  Range Officer – Approval

 

a)         The range officer shall have a sufficient educational background and/or experience necessary to meet the instructional demands that will be made of him or her in accordance with Section 1720.40.

 

b)         The decision shall be based on an investigation of the credentials of the particular individual. No range officer shall be utilized in a Certification Program for qualified retired law enforcement officers who has not been previously approved as a Qualified Police Instructor for the course described in 20 Ill. Adm. Code 1730 (Mandatory Firearms Training for Peace Officers). 

 

c)         A range officer shall be in charge of all aspects of the course-of-fire Certification Program and shall certify in writing to the Board that the range to be used is safe for all phases of the required course-of-fire.  The range officer shall be physically present at all times the Certification Program is being administered to an applicant and shall have the authority to dismiss any applicant for reasons of range safety.

 

d)         The range officer shall certify and report in writing to the Board the results of an applicant's performance in the Certification Program.

 

(Source:  Amended at 39 Ill. Reg. 2578, effective February 5, 2015)

 

Section 1720.300  Purpose

 

To provide training for lead death and homicide investigators. 

 

(Source:  Added at 35 Ill. Reg. 21047, effective January 1, 2012)

 

Section 1720.310  Definitions

 

"Act" means the Illinois Police Training Act [50 ILCS 705]. 

 

"Board" means the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board created by the Illinois Police Training Act [50 ILCS 705]. 

 

"Course" means the Lead Death and Homicide Investigation Course offered by the Board pursuant to P.A. 96-1111. 

 

"Death and Homicide Investigations" include only those investigations that have a substantial likelihood of an individual being charged with an offense of homicide.

 

"Officer" means any person who, by virtue of his or her office or public employment, is vested by law with a primary duty to maintain public order or to make arrests for offenses, whether that duty extends to all offenses or is limited to specific offenses, and who is employed in such capacity by any county or municipality in Illinois.  The term "officer" does not include any employee of the Illinois State Police.

 

(Source:  Added at 35 Ill. Reg. 21047, effective January 1, 2012)

 

Section 1720.320  Lead Death and Homicide Investigator Course

 

a)         The content of the Course shall be determined by the Board and shall include, but not be limited to, the following topics: 

 

1)         Types of death investigations;

 

2)         Death and homicide investigation techniques;

 

3)         Crime scene management and preservation of evidence;

 

4)         Interviews and interrogations.

 

b)         The Course shall include 40 to 50 hours of content and those hours must be offered within no greater than a 7 consecutive day period. 

 

c)         The Course shall be taught by instructors approved by the Board. 

 

d)         The timing and location of Course offerings shall be determined at the discretion of the Board, but the Course shall be offered within the state of Illinois in a manner that provides reasonable access to officers in terms of time of year. 

 

(Source:  Added at 35 Ill. Reg. 21047, effective January 1, 2012)

 

Section 1720.330  Waiver

 

a)         The Board may issue a waiver on a case by case basis stating that an officer has previously received training and experience that is substantially equal to that provided in the Course. 

 

b)         A waiver may be issued only upon the presentation of documentation to the Board evidencing that, at the time of application, the individual seeking the waiver: 

 

1)         Is currently employed full-time as a law enforcement officer in Illinois;

 

2)         Has at least 3 years of experience as a full-time law enforcement officer;

 

3)         Has completed formal training regarding death and homicide investigations; and

 

4)         Has substantial experience in a supervisory or leadership role in homicide investigations.

 

c)         Only a duly authorized representative of the law enforcement agency may request a waiver for its officers. 

 

d)         The agency seeking a waiver must apply on a form prescribed by the Board.  The form shall require disclosure of all information requested by the Board regarding applicant, including, but not limited to, applicant's training, experience and background.

 

e)         Any information requested by the Board and submitted by the applicant shall be considered confidential and shall not be utilized for any purpose other than that described in this Section. 

 

f)         All waiver decisions by the Board are final.

 

(Source:  Added at 35 Ill. Reg. 21047, effective January 1, 2012)

 

Section 1720.340  Certificate

 

a)         Officers who complete the Course or receive a waiver shall be issued a numbered certificate by the Board.

 

b)         The certificate issued by the Board upon completion of the Course or receipt of waiver shall be valid for a period of 4 years and must be renewed to remain valid.

 

(Source:  Added at 35 Ill. Reg. 21047, effective January 1, 2012)

 

Section 1720.350  Certificate Renewal

 

a)         The certificate issued by the Board may be renewed if the officer completes a total of 32 hours of Board-approved death and homicide related training during the 4 year certification period, a satisfactory background investigation has been performed by the Board, and the officer is in compliance with all other requirements of the Act. 

 

b)         Any application for certification renewal must be sent from the duly authorized representative of the law enforcement agency employing the officer.

 

c)         If the officer has not completed the 32 hours of Board-approved training within the 4 year certification period, the officer shall be required to take the Lead Death and Homicide Investigator course in order to renew his or her certificate. 

 

d)         The Board may assess a renewal fee of no more than $75 to meet the costs of the implementation of the lead death and homicide investigator program. 

 

(Source:  Added at 35 Ill. Reg. 21047, effective January 1, 2012)

Section 1720.APPENDIX A   Physical Fitness Standards

 

1.         SIT AND REACH TEST:  This is a measure of the flexibility of the lower back and upper leg area.  It is an important area for performing police tasks involving range of motion and is important in minimizing lower back problems.  The test involves stretching out to touch the toes beyond the extended arms from the sitting position. The score is in the inches reached on a yard stick with 15" being at the toes.

 

	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE		FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE
TEST: Sit and Reach	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59		20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59
Academy Entrance:	14.4	13.0	12.0	10.5		17.0	16.5	15.0	14.8

 

2.         1 MINUTE SIT UP TEST:  This is a measure of the muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles.  It is an important area for performing police tasks that may involve the use of force and is an important area for maintaining good posture and minimizing lower back problems.

 

	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE		FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE
TEST: One Minute Sit Up Test	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59		20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59
Academy Entrance:	33	30	24	19		24	20	14	10

 

3.         1 REPETITION MAXIMUM BENCH PRESS:  This is a maximum weight pushed from the bench press position and measures the amount of force the upper body can generate.

 

	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE		FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE
TEST: Bench Press	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59		20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59
Academy Entrance:	88%	78%	72%	63%		51%	47%	43%	39%

 

4.         1.5 MILE RUN:  This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular systems' capability to transport oxygen.  It is an important area for performing police tasks involving stamina and endurance and to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems. The score is in minutes and seconds.

 

	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE	MALE AGE		FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE	FEMALE AGE
TEST: 1.5 Mile Run	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59		20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59
Academy Entrance:	14:00	14:34	15:24	16:58		16:46	17:38	18:37	20:44

 

(Source:  Amended at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

Section 1720.APPENDIX B   Complaint Form (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 47 Ill. Reg. 9369, effective June 23, 2023)

Section 1720.APPENDIX C   Firearm Qualification Course-of-Fire

 

1)         Target Scoring Area:  8½ x 14 inch overlay/center mass of target. The defined firearm types are: Semi-auto/Revolver handgun; minimum capacity 5 rounds

 

2)         For Duty Handgun Qualification, all stages of fire will commence from a secured holster. For Off Duty/Retired Officer Qualification, all stages of fire will commence with the handgun in hand from the "low ready" position.  A passing score is 70% = 21 hits on center mass.

 

3)         Where indicated below, the word "DRAW" requires the shooter to withdraw the handgun from a secured holster on the command to fire.  The word "PRESENT" means that the shooter has the handgun in the shooting hand in low ready (depressed muzzle) position and stands ready for the command to fire under the following conditions:

 

5 Yard line – Total of 12 rounds

Stage 1 Draw/Present and fire 2 rounds in 6 seconds

Stage 2 Draw/Present and fire 2 rounds in 6 seconds

Stage 3 Draw/Present and fire 2 rounds in 6 seconds

Stage 4 Draw/Present and fire 2 rounds in 6 seconds

Stage 5 Draw/Present and fire 2 rounds in 6 seconds

Stage 6 Draw/Present and fire 2 rounds in 6 seconds

Shooters will reload without command as needed between stages of fire.

 

7 Yard line – Total of 12 rounds

Stage 7 Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 7 seconds

Stage 8 Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 7 seconds

Stage 9 Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 7 seconds

Stage 10 Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 7 seconds

 

15 Yard line – Total of 6 rounds

Stage 11 Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 10 seconds

Stage 12 Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 10 seconds

Stage 12 25 Yard line-:  Draw/Present and fire 3 rounds in 15 seconds

(in lieu of the second 10 second /three round string at 15 yards)

 

4)         The above course-of-fire is the minimum standard required.  Any agency may include any modification that increases the level of difficulty such as reloading, alternate hands, movement, time restriction, or other job related skills.

 

(Source:  Added at 30 Ill. Reg. 7925, effective April 11, 2006)