How To Get a CPL in Michigan: Requirements, Cost, Timeline & Disqualifications
If you’re interested in getting your Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and are ready to start taking the steps toward licensure, this guide is for you.
The first step is to book a class as you work through the other requirements, such as paying the application fee, getting fingerprinted, and making sure you aren’t ineligible, based on criminal or mental health history.
Here’s everything you need to know about Michigan CPL requirements.
Michigan CPL at a Glance: Cost, Timeline, and Eligibility
Before getting into the specifics of how to get CPL in Michigan, here’s a quick look at what to expect:
- Requirements: Be at least 21 years old, complete the necessary training, undergo a background check, and submit your application.
- Cost: Approximately $300 total (not including the firearm).
- Timeline: Roughly 45 days.
- Disqualifiers: Felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions, and certain documented mental health conditions.
There may also be some variability in cost, especially when you consider ammunition, training, and the initial firearm purchase.
Michigan CPL Requirements: Who Is Eligible?
Before you spend money on an application or purchase a firearm, it’s important to confirm that you’re eligible to obtain a Concealed Pistol License in the first place.
Basic Eligibility (Age, Residency, and Citizenship)
To be eligible for a CPL in Michigan, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Be a legal resident of Michigan for at least six months.
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien.
- Possess a valid Michigan driver’s license or state ID card.
- Have no felony convictions, pending felony charges, or certain disqualifying misdemeanors (e.g., domestic violence).
If you meet these requirements, you can move on to the training process, which is mandatory in Michigan.
Pistol Safety Training Requirement
Michigan state law requires you to complete an approved pistol safety training course. The course must be at least eight hours long and consist of three hours of live-fire range time and five hours of classroom instruction.
It can also be longer, provided it’s an approved course and meets the other requirements. You’ll be required to submit your certificate when applying for your CPL.
Michigan isn’t strict on the type of target used or the course of fire. However, you should verify that a legitimate instructor is providing the training.
What Disqualifies You From Getting a CPL in Michigan?
Not everyone is eligible to get a Concealed Pistol License in Michigan. There are certain limitations.
Keep in mind that this is general information only. The Michigan State Police (MSP) or your county sheriff will make individual determinations regarding your eligibility, and this doesn’t constitute legal advice.
Here’s what disqualifies you from getting a CPL in Michigan.
Federal Disqualifiers
The first layer of disqualifications comes at the federal level. These include federal convictions, being an unlawful drug user (including having a medical marijuana card), or being subject to a conditional release that prohibits the purchase or possession of firearms.
Michigan State-Level Disqualifiers (Convictions and Mental Health)
You can’t get a CPL with a felony conviction or pending felony charges.
Certain misdemeanor convictions also prohibit you from obtaining your CPL, but some of those charges have time-based limitations, ranging from three to eight years. For example, reckless driving could temporarily prohibit you from obtaining your CPL.
Michigan also places concealed carry limitations on individuals who have certain diagnosed mental illnesses, have been declared legally incapacitated, or have received involuntary treatment in a mental health facility.
Those who are under an active personal protection order are also prohibited from possessing a firearm or obtaining a CPL.
How To Get a CPL in Michigan: Step-By-Step
Here’s how to get your Concealed Pistol License in Michigan:
- Take an approved CPL class and get your certificate.
- Apply at your county clerk’s office.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Undergo fingerprinting.
- Wait for the MSP background review.
- Receive your CPL by mail.
If you’re denied, MSP will provide you with a written explanation as to why.
How Much Is a CPL in Michigan? Cost Breakdown
How much is a CPL in Michigan? You’ll need to consider the application fee, fingerprinting, and the mandatory safety course.
CPL Class Cost
A typical eight-hour class ranges from $59 to $125 in the Livonia area. Make sure to factor in what’s included in the class and the quality of the instruction when choosing a course.
State Application Fee and Fingerprinting Cost
There’s a $100 application fee for your CPL application and an additional fingerprinting fee, which is approximately $15.
You can obtain a state application packet at your county clerk’s office or download it from the MSP website.
Book your CPL class at Uncoiled Firearms in Livonia, Michigan, today.
How Long Does It Take To Get a CPL in Michigan?
You’ll likely receive your CPL within 45 days of submitting your application and completing the fingerprinting process. Many applicants receive their CPLs sooner.
However, timelines vary based on the volume of applications, how quickly you get your fingerprints completed, and other factors.
Emergency CPL: The Faster Route
There’s also an emergency Concealed Pistol License option, but it’s typically reserved for individuals who have legitimate grounds for requesting this expedited option.
If you think you might qualify, you must request an emergency CPL from your county clerk’s office. The sheriff in your home county will evaluate your request and decide whether you qualify based on the circumstances of your case.
Ready To Start? Get Your CPL Class in Livonia, MI
So, how long does it take to get a CPL in Michigan? It depends on how motivated you are to complete your course and the required training.
If you’re ready to get started, Uncoiled Firearms can help. We’re one of the top ranges in the Livonia area, and we offer a variety of one- and two-day CPL classes.
Contact Uncoiled Firearms to learn more.
