If you’re a Michigan resident looking to carry a concealed pistol for personal defense, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate license. A Michigan concealed pistol license (CPL), sometimes called a Michigan CCW, allows you to legally carry a concealed firearm.
The process of obtaining this license requires a few important steps, which are designed to vet the individuals applying, and promote responsible firearm ownership.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to obtain your Michigan CPL, where to take your class, and some basic tips for adhering to state laws before and after receiving your license. Here’s how to get your Michigan concealed pistol license.
Step One: Complete a Certified Pistol Safety Training Course
You must complete an approved Michigan CPL class before you can apply for a license. This course must include the following:
- At least eight hours of instruction, with a minimum of three hours of range instruction
- Training in safe handling, storage, use, and legal responsibilities
- A written examination and live-fire exercise
The CPL class can be completed in a single day. However, you must show up on time. You’ll have to reschedule if you show up late.
If attending a daytime course doesn’t fit your schedule, you can explore two-night options, such as those offered by Uncoiled Firearms.
Step Two: Download and Fill Out the Application Form
Next, you’ll need to download the official Michigan CPL application form. You can find the CPL application on the Michigan.gov website. The form for new CPL applicants is RI-012. The link also includes the renewal form, and other firearms-related documents.
Do not sign the application yet. You’ll be instructed to sign it under oath at the county clerk’s office during filing. You can fill out all the requested information ahead of time, though.
Carefully read and review every line to ensure you are completing the form accurately to the best of your knowledge. Including false or inaccurate information on the form could result in civil or criminal penalties.
Step Three: File the Application With Your County Clerk
Once your application is complete, file it in person with the county clerk in the Michigan county where you reside. You’ll need to bring:
- The completed CPL application form
- Your certificate of completion from the pistol safety course
- A passport-style photo
The county clerk will review your paperwork, and instruct you to sign the form under oath. Make sure that you don’t sign the application beforehand, or you will have to fill out a new set of forms.
Step Four: Pay the Application Fee
The standard CPL application fee in Michigan is $100. This is a non-refundable fee, payable at the time you submit your application to the county clerk. Depending on how you submit payment, you may also incur a processing fee. Check with your county clerk’s office to verify payment methods and any additional fees.
Step Five: Get Your Fingerprints Taken
After submitting your application and paying the fee, you’ll need to schedule fingerprinting. You must have classifiable fingerprints taken by an approved agency, which may include:
- Michigan State Police
- County sheriff’s office
- Local police department
- Other authorized fingerprinting agencies
Most agencies charge a $15 fee for fingerprinting services. However, some agencies may charge higher fees. Make sure to verify the cost and accepted payment methods before scheduling your appointment.
Remember, the county clerk cannot start processing your application until you pay your fee and submit fingerprints. With that in mind, it’s important to complete all steps as quickly as possible to expedite application processing.
Step Six: Wait for Processing (Up to 45 Days)
Once your fingerprints are submitted, and your application is complete, the county clerk has up to 45 days to issue either:
- A CPL disqualification (with explanation)
- Your official Michigan concealed pistol license
While many applicants receive approval in less time, be prepared to wait the full 45 days. Don’t start carrying a concealed pistol before receiving your license, even if you are “certain” you will be approved. Once you receive your license, you are required to have it on your person anytime you are carrying a concealed firearm.
What If You’re Denied?
The county clerk must provide an explanation when sending you a CPL disqualification notice. The notice will explain why you were denied and if applicable, how to become eligible.
If your application was denied, it could be because you don’t meet the basic state requirements. According to the Michigan State Police, the requirements to obtain a Michigan CPL include the following:
- Be 21 years of age or older
- Be a citizen of the U.S. or a lawfully admitted alien
- Be a legal Michigan resident
- Reside in Michigan for at least six months
You could be denied if you have not been a Michigan resident for at least six months. However, the county clerk shall waive this requirement if you meet one of the exceptions, such as being a new resident who holds a valid CCW license in another state at the time you establish residency in Michigan. Visit the Michigan State Police website for a full list of exceptions and requirements.
The Basics of Michigan CPLs
Carrying a concealed firearm without a CPL is a felony offense in Michigan, and is punishable by up to five years in prison. Obtaining a CPL allows you to lawfully carry a concealed pistol, as long as you adhere to other state provisions.
For example, Michigan prohibits CPL holders from carrying a concealed pistol on the following premises:
- Schools/school property
- Public or private daycare centers
- Sports stadiums
- Bars/taverns
- Places of worship
- Entertainment facilities with a seating capacity of 2,500 or more
- Hospitals
- Classrooms and dormitories of colleges and universities
It’s important to note that “premises” does not include the parking lots of any of the above-listed places. This means that CCW holders who inadvertently bring their firearm to one of the above locations could legally leave the weapon in their vehicles to avoid violating state law.
However, any firearm should be properly secured when it is not under your direct physical control. With that in mind, it may be best to leave your weapon secured at home if you are traveling to any of the premises outlined above so that you do not risk having your weapon stolen from your vehicle.
Michigan offers reciprocity to residents of other states who possess concealed carry licenses. This means if you have a CCW license in another state that Michigan recognizes in its reciprocity provision, you can lawfully carry a concealed firearm in Michigan.
However, out-of-state CCW holders must conform to Michigan’s concealed pistol laws. If you are new to Michigan, or unfamiliar with the state’s concealed pistol laws, make sure to check with an attorney or review state statutes so that you do not inadvertently commit a crime.
Meet State Training Requirements With the Uncoiled Firearms CPL Class
Uncoiled Firearms offers a Michigan CPL class. The eight-hour course begins at 8 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. Our course is just $75 and starts promptly at 8 a.m.
The course fee covers instruction, range time, gun rental, eye and ear protection, and your lunch. However, you are responsible for the cost of ammunition. You can purchase ammunition at Uncoiled Firearms.
The daytime course is typically held every Saturday and Sunday. We occasionally offer Monday classes as well.
Uncoiled Firearms also offers a two-night Michigan CPL class. This class also costs just $75, plus the cost of ammunition. The two-night course starts promptly at 5 p.m. and lasts until 9 p.m. You must attend both nights to obtain your certification.
The two-night courses are typically offered once per month, with the first class taking place on Wednesday, and the second class held the following day.
Regardless of which class you enroll in, you will receive instruction from experienced firearms instructors. The course covers topics, such as choosing a handgun, your legal responsibilities, CPL laws, and more.
Ready To Get Started?
At Uncoiled Firearms, we’ve trained hundreds of responsible gun owners across Michigan to meet the legal requirements for obtaining their Michigan CPL. Our instructors bring real-world experience and a commitment to firearm safety that’s unmatched in the region.
Whether you choose our standard full-day class, or our two-evening course, you’ll leave with the knowledge, certification, and confidence you need to apply for your CPL.
