FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

"WE TEACH RESPONSIBLE PISTOL OWNERSHIP, MARKSMANSHIP, AND SAFETY"

​​​​​​​​​​​​​Why should I go to GPA for these courses?

What makes us different from all the other schools are the following:

  • Experienced staff with military (USMC), law enforcement, and professional training backgrounds.
  • Small class size (10 max in classroom) and individual coaching at range for an hour.  ​
  • NRA Certificate of completion available to continue taking advanced NRA training courses​
  • We use S.I.R.T. laser trainers (in classroom to verify student proper aiming (sight alignment & sight picture)
  • Personal Marksmanship Coaching prior to range qualification included
  • Targets for Phase 1 & Phase 2 included
  • Most comprehensive legal curriculum for Phase 2 developed by a retired judge/prosecuting attorney/sheriff.
  • Discuss and try out various concealment holsters, and methods in Phase 2

How old do you have to be to enroll in classes?​

Students enrolling in all classes provided by GPA must be 16 years or older however, laws will prevent 

any student from obtaining a CCL under the age of 21. (if under 18, must have parent or legal guardian)  


Will I get to shoot a gun?

After completing Phase 1, Basic Pistol Training course, there will be range training with live pistols and ammunition. 

Can I bring my gun to the classroom sessions?

NO, student guns and ammo are NOT permitted in the classroom. (please leave your gun secured in a compartment of your vehicle until you have been asked to go get it)

Can I bring my own gun to range lessons?

YES! 

**Bringing your own Pistol to range coaching is encouraged but not necessary. Be sure to have it

unloaded, in a gun case or range bag, with ammo in a separate compartment prior to entering the building.  

(if you do not bring your pistol, there is a $10 donation requested for cleaning and ammunition) 


​**For Rifles, please have them unloaded, in a gun case, and ammo in a separate compartment. Please plan

before your coaching date, to have purchased a proper gun case as the packaging rifles are shipped in are NOT

a safe alternative. 5 Star Firearms sells affordable gun cases at there store and online here: ​

(if you do not bring your rifle, there is a $15 donation requested for cleaning our rental) 


Will I get my Concealed Carry Permit?

Yes! You will be eligible to apply only after you have successfully completed 16 hours of training as required by Illinois State law. (GPA Phase 1 and Phase 2 satisfy this requirement) 

Assistance on Illinois Concealed Carry Application is provided if needed. 

Note: Other state requirements may vary. Please see "State Requirements" on the "Resources" Page

What classes do you offer?

  • Phase 1 - NRA Basic Pistol Training
  • Phase 2 - Illinois Concealed Carry Training
  • Phase 3 - Personal Pistol Marksmanship Coaching
  • Phase 4 - Personal Rifle Marksmanship Coaching
  • Phase 5 - Rules of Self Defense (Illinois CCL Refresher)
  • ​Phase 6 - Personal Shotgun Marksmanship Coaching
  • Utah - Concealed Carry Permit
  • NRA - Personal Protection Inside the Home
  • NRA - Personal Protection Outside the Home
  • Refuse To Be A Victim
  • NRA Range Safety Office Course
  • Pistol Cartridge Reloading Course
  • NRA Basic Rifle Course
  • Stop The Bleed, CPR, & AED Coaching 

                                             *Pre-registration for all courses is required*

                      For more information about the courses GPA offers, visit the "Courses" Page

​

Where is the classroom?

Inside 5 Star Firearms (41666 N Sheridan Rd. Zion, IL 60099) near the Shooting Range across

the hall from the Gunsmith's Room. You can also ask a 5 Star associate to direct you.

 

How much does it cost?

Depending on the course, prices vary.

  • Phase 1 - $170, for the NRA Basic Pistol Safety Class
  • Phase 2 - $170, for the legal brief and concealed carry concepts for the IL CCL
  • Phase 3 - $50 for 30 minute Private Pistol Marksmanship Coaching ($10 additional includes pistol and ammo) 
  • Phase 4 - $50 for 30 minute Private Rifle Marksmanship Coaching ($15 additional includes rifle rental)
  • Phase 5 - $85 for 3 hour Illinois Law Review classroom session ($7 range & $15 qualification fee additional)
  • Phase 6 - $50 for 30 minute Private Shotgun Marksmanship Coaching ($15 additional includes shotgun rental)
  • Phase 7 - Stop The Bleed, CPR & AED Course - $75  ​ 

**Please, visit the "Courses" Page for complete details.

​

Whats included?

Depending on the course.

  • All marksmanship coaching, and targets
  • FBI Blue Card Fingerprints for Utah Concealed Carry Application
  • Passport Quality Photo for Illinois, Florida or Utah Concealed Carry Application 


What do I need to bring to class?

Notepad, pen, highlighter, beverage, snacks and a lunch. (vending machines with snacks and beverages are

available on site and fast food restaurants are located near by)


When are the courses?

Classes are scheduled in advance and are posted on the GPA Calendar.

To see the calendar, visit "Schedule" page 


How long are the courses?

Depending on the course, between 4 and 8 hours. 

For more information, visit the "Courses" page 


Am I required to submit fingerprints with my Illinois application?

No. If you choose to submit your application without electronic fingerprints, your application may require

additional research and may take an additional 30 days. 

How long does it take to receive my Illinois Concealed Carry License? 

The Illinois State Police do a great job in beating every deadline given to them. You should receive your Illinois Concealed Carry license in 90 days, if you have submitted electronic "LiveScan" fingerprints, or in 120 days without  electronic fingerprints.

                 ***Please allow extra processing time for ISP due to the current pandemic***