November 27 2018

Post 8 – How to Get a Michigan Concealed Pistol License

Last updated: 12/16/14

A Michigan Concealed Pistol License allows you to lawfully conceal handguns on or about your person, and in your vehicle.

To qualify for a concealed pistol licenses or “CPL”, often referred to as a CCW, you must meet the follow criteria:

1.) 21 years or older
2.) Pass a background check
3.) Successfully complete a training course that meets the requirements of section 5J Public Act 372 of 1927
4.) Be a citizen of the United States or an immigrant alien lawfully admitted into the United States and a resident of the State of Michigan for at least 6 months prior to application

For a detailed list of the requirements:
http://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1591_3503_4654-10926–,00.html

The cost to obtain a CPL is $105, which includes the cost of fingerprinting by the County Sheriff.

You will need to turn in the following to the County Clerk in the County that you reside:

1.) Application, complete with the name and contact information of two references.
2.) $105.00
3.) Passport quality photo *
4.) Training Certificate (first CPL only)

* The County Clerk will offer to take your picture for a price. Read Post 6 – What I Need To Know About Renewing My Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) to learn how to get a passport quality picture for free.

And you will need to be fingerprinted (first CPL only), which you will do after you submit your application to the County Clerk.

CPL applications are free and can be obtained from:

• County sheriffs
• Local police agencies
• County clerks

For a PDF copy of the Michigan CPL application:
http://sheriffconnect.com/files/applications/CPL%20Application.pdf

You can often fill out the application, and even pay, online at the County Clerk website. But you will still need to go to the County Clerk to sign your application and submit your passport quality photo and training certificate.

Q. When will I receive my CPL?
A. Every County varies. In some Counties you will probably receive your CPL by mail in about 30 days. Some Counties may take several months. Most Counties will mail your CPL. Macomb requires people to obtain their first CPL in person at a Gun Board meeting in which the Gun Board will ask you a few basic questions (don’t get intimidated, the questions are quick and easy).

Q. How do I know if I can pass the background check?
A. Check out these links:
• Michigan State Police website: http://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1591_3503_4654-10926–,00.html
• Michigan State Legislator website: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(oq0kus55tm04kgq2w2wguzuh))/mileg.aspx?page=GetObject&objectname=mcl-28-425b
• Still not sure if you can pass the background check, read our article Post 7 – How to Get Free Legal Advice

Q. What if I’m denied?
A. If you believe you were wrongfully denied, the process for appealing a denial is included in the CPL application kit. Make sure you contact an attorney quickly and get proper representation. The amount of time to appeal is very short.

Q. How do I renew my CPL?
A. For information about renewing a Michigan CPL read:
Post 6 – What I Need To Know About Renewing My Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL)