Introduction to Concealed Carry Laws Michigan
As strong supporters of the Second Amendment, we understand the importance of staying current on concealed carry laws Michigan offers its residents and visitors. In a shall-issue state like Michigan, responsible armed citizens must take the time to understand not only the licensing process but also where and how to carry legally.
Below, we walk you through the ins and outs of these statutes, from CCW requirements by state reciprocity to vital safety considerations. Our goal is to present all the facts clearly and accurately so that you can lawfully and confidently exercise your right to bear arms.
Table of Contents
Overview of Michigan Gun Laws
- Shall-Issue State: Michigan is a shall-issue state, meaning that qualified applicants who meet the necessary requirements will be granted a Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
- Local Issuance: Licenses are issued by county clerks. If you are a resident of Michigan or an active-duty military member stationed here (or with Michigan as your home of record), you can apply in the county where you reside.
- No Firearm Registry: Although Michigan does not maintain a traditional firearm registry, handgun purchases require filing a Pistol Sales Record Form (RI-60) with the Michigan State Police.
- Background Checks: All handgun sales (commercial or private) require a background check. Non-residents may only purchase long guns in Michigan, while residents can purchase both long guns and handguns.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
- Open Carry: Legal for Michigan residents 18 and older who can lawfully possess a firearm, provided the pistol is registered in their name. Non-residents wishing to open carry must hold a valid concealed carry license from their home state.
- Concealed Carry: A valid Michigan CPL allows law-abiding residents to carry a concealed pistol once they turn 21. Non-residents who are 21 or older and have a valid permit in their home state may also conceal carry in Michigan.
CPL Eligibility and Application
To obtain a Michigan CPL, applicants must meet these CCW requirements by state standards and Michigan-specific guidelines:
Age and Residency
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Must be a resident of Michigan for at least six months or active-duty military stationed in Michigan. (New residents with a valid concealed carry license from another state can have the six-month residency requirement waived.)
Legal Qualifications
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Must have a clean criminal background with no felony convictions and no pending felony charges.
- Must not be subject to certain court orders, such as personal protection orders or mental health-related prohibitions.
- Must meet federal firearm possession requirements.
Concealed Carry Training
- Must successfully complete an approved firearm safety course that includes at least eight hours of instruction and three hours of live-fire range time. The course covers topics like safe handling, basic shooting fundamentals, and Michigan firearm laws.
Fingerprinting and Fees
- Fingerprinting is done through local law enforcement or other designated agencies.
- Pay the required fee (currently $100 for the initial license).
Processing Time
- County clerks must issue a license or a notice of disqualification within 45 days of receiving classifiable fingerprints.
Restricted Locations and Carry Considerations
While concealed carry laws Michigan support your right to bear arms, some locations remain off-limits even with a valid CPL:
- K-12 school buildings (though parents can have firearms in their vehicles when dropping off or picking up children).
- Dormitories or classrooms at colleges and universities.
- Sports arenas and stadiums.
- Bars or taverns where the primary income comes from on-site alcohol consumption.
- Places of worship without explicit permission.
- Large entertainment venues (2,500+ seating).
- Hospitals.
- Casinos.
- Certain courtrooms and secure areas in airports.
Duty to Inform: Michigan law requires you to inform law enforcement immediately upon contact that you are carrying concealed.
Brandishing: Intentionally displaying your firearm in a threatening manner is illegal. Always handle and carry your firearm responsibly.
Self-Defense Laws in Michigan
Michigan follows Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground principles:
- Castle Doctrine: You may use deadly force in your home (or any location you have a right to be) with no duty to retreat if you fear imminent death, great bodily harm, or sexual assault.
- Stand Your Ground: Extends the same principle to any location you are legally allowed to be. If you are not committing a crime, you have no duty to retreat before defending yourself or others when faced with immediate danger.
If you would like more legal education materials, you can visit our online resources for gun owners page, to find more information about self-defense law and Second Amendment law.
Additional Considerations
- Ammunition Restrictions: Armor-piercing ammo is prohibited in Michigan.
- Tasers & Stun Guns: Stun guns (incapable of launching projectiles) are illegal; Tasers can be legally purchased and possessed if you hold a valid CPL and complete specialized training.
- Pepper Spray: Allowed for self-defense purposes. The maximum strength permitted is 18% oleoresin capsicum (OC).
- No Weapons Allowed Signs: Such signs are not enforced by Michigan law; however, private property owners have the right to set their own rules.
- Red Flag Law: Michigan does have a red flag law allowing certain protective orders to temporarily restrict firearm possession under specific circumstances.
Reciprocity: Carrying Beyond Michigan
Michigan recognizes resident concealed carry permits from all states. If you travel to another state, note that each has its own CCW requirements by state. Check local laws regarding firearm carry, as they can differ widely.
Purchasing and Transferring Handguns
- Permit to Purchase: A valid Michigan CPL can substitute for a permit to purchase or the local License to Purchase (RI-10 Form).
- Background Check: Required for all handgun sales, commercial or private, as of 2024.
- Pistol Sales Record: All handgun buyers must file an RI-60 with the Michigan State Police within 10 days of purchase.
- Waiting Period: Michigan does not impose a waiting period.
Policing the Brass - Putting It All Together
Understanding the nuances of concealed carry laws Michigan helps you exercise your right to self-defense with confidence. From obtaining your CPL to respecting location-based restrictions and reciprocity agreements, staying informed is key. Proper concealed carry training ensures both safety and legal compliance. And by knowing the facts, you can protect yourself and your loved ones while honoring the responsibilities that come with firearm ownership.
- Research your county’s application process.
- Complete an approved training course if you haven’t already.
- Apply for your Michigan CPL at your local county clerk’s office.
Stay safe, stay informed, and continue to stand firmly in support of our Second Amendment rights. When done responsibly, carrying concealed is an empowering way to protect yourself and those around you.
If you would like a downloadable guide to concealed carry laws Michigan you can visit HandgunLaw.us for their free guide.
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. The reasonable use of pepper spray for self-defense is allowed under Michigan law. Individuals may possess self-defense spray or foam devices that contain no more than 35 grams of any combination of orthochlorobenzalmalononitrile and inert ingredients, with no more than 18% oleoresin capsicum (OC). Minors may not purchase or possess pepper spray. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Michigan is a shall-issue state. Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPLs) are issued by county clerks to qualified applicants who meet the requirements. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. Michigan residents at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm and have it registered in their name may open carry without a permit. Non-residents must have a valid concealed carry license from their home state. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | A Michigan CPL is required to purchase or possess a Taser. Stun guns (incapable of launching projectiles) are illegal. Tasers must also have identification and tracking features. It’s legal to use a Taser in justified self-defense situations. You must have training in Taser use and risk. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | Michigan CPL holders may carry concealed handguns and Tasers. Other weapons (e.g., knives) are subject to different rules and restrictions. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited in Michigan. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. Michigan does not restrict magazine capacity for handguns. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | The minimum age to obtain a Michigan CPL is 21. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No. Michigan does not have constitutional carry and requires a license to carry concealed. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | You can carry concealed in the restaurant area of an establishment that serves alcohol if you have a valid Michigan CPL, provided you are not under the influence (BAC >0.02). However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars where the primary source of income is the sale of alcohol by the glass. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes. Concealed carry is allowed in Michigan’s state/national parks, forests, and WMAs if you have a valid CPL, unless otherwise posted. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, with a valid CPL. Otherwise, the handgun must be unloaded and secured in a case in the trunk or, if no trunk exists, inaccessible to occupants. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Michigan law does not specifically address carrying in hotels. Individual hotels set their own policies, so you should inquire directly with hotel management about their concealed carry policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes. Concealed carry is permitted at roadside rest areas in Michigan with a valid CPL. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | There is no specific state law on storing firearms in a vehicle in an employee parking lot. Employers may set their own policies. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. Michigan does not allow public access to concealed carry registry information, though it is available to law enforcement. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | Yes. You must inform law enforcement upon contact if you are carrying concealed. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | Yes. Michigan does have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No. These signs are not enforced by Michigan law. Violating them is not considered a criminal offense, though property owners may ask you to leave. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Carrying on tribal lands varies by tribe. Some tribes allow carry with a valid Michigan permit; others prohibit it. Always check tribal regulations before entering. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | You cannot carry while under the influence of alcohol (BAC ≥0.02) or controlled substances. Being under the influence impairs judgement and is prohibited. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Michigan only issues permits to active-duty military stationed in Michigan or if Michigan is their home of record. New residents with a valid permit from another state may have the 6-month residency requirement waived. |
| BRANDISHING? | Yes. Michigan defines brandishing as willfully and knowingly pointing, waving about, or displaying a firearm in public with the intent to create fear, except in lawful self-defense. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | No. A Michigan driver’s license is not linked to a Michigan Concealed Pistol License. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. Michigan law generally supersedes local firearm ordinances. However, local governments may regulate firearm discharge within city limits and can set rules for government employees. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No. There is no waiting period to purchase a handgun in Michigan. |
| MICHIGAN PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. A current Michigan CPL does not exempt you from needing a background check when purchasing a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | Yes. Residents must obtain a License to Purchase (LTP) for handguns unless they possess a valid Michigan CPL. Only Michigan residents can purchase pistols in the state. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes. As of February 2024, all private firearm sales in Michigan require a background check. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18 years old. Individuals under 18 generally may not possess a firearm in public except under direct supervision of an adult. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. You can lawfully carry a handgun on your own property (business, residence, or land) without a license. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | Michigan does not have a traditional registry, but all handgun sales require a Pistol Sales Record (RI-60) filed with the Michigan State Police. Exceptions apply for certain officials. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES MICHIGAN HONOR? | Michigan recognizes resident permits from all U.S. states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, as long as the permit holder is at least 21 and resides in the issuing state. Michigan is a shall-issue state and requires its residents to have a Michigan CPL to carry in-state. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH MICHIGAN? | The following states honor Michigan permits (permitless carry states have their own age limits and conditions):
Always check each state’s carry regulations before traveling. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH MICHIGAN? | The following states accept Michigan resident licenses only (and/or have specific permitless carry conditions):
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| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Current permitless carry states include:
Always verify specific requirements and age restrictions, as permitless carry laws vary by state. |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Report it to your local police department. You can obtain a replacement license at the county clerk’s office for $10 with a copy of the police report and a valid ID. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Michigan CPLs are generally valid for about 5 years. They expire on your birthday between 4 and 5 years after the issue date. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | You can download a Michigan CPL application from the state’s official website or pick one up at your local county clerk’s office. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Only to active-duty military stationed in Michigan or with Michigan as their home of record. Otherwise, you must be a resident to obtain a Michigan CPL. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF MICHIGAN AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move into Michigan, you must meet the 6-month residency requirement (unless you have a valid permit from another state, in which case the 6-month wait is waived). If you establish residency in another state, your Michigan license expires upon establishing that new residency. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | The initial fee is $100, and renewal is $115. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | By law, the county clerk must issue the license or a notice of statutory disqualification within 45 days after your fingerprints are taken. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Contact your county clerk’s office for procedures on updating name or address information. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | Applicants must be at least 21, complete state-approved firearm training, be U.S. citizens or lawful aliens, have no felony convictions, meet residency criteria, and pass background checks, among other requirements. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Complete a firearms training course. 2) Download or pick up an application at the county clerk’s office. 3) Submit the application, photo, and fees to the county clerk. 4) Get fingerprinted. 5) Await issuance or notice of disqualification (within 45 days). |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Michigan requires at least 8 hours of instruction, including 3 hours of range time, covering topics such as safe firearm handling, ammunition knowledge, pistol shooting fundamentals, and Michigan firearm laws. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | You may renew up to 6 months before and up to 1 year after expiration. Apply in person, by mail, or online (if you received a PIN). You must certify at least 3 hours of review and 1 hour of firing-range practice within the past 6 months. |
| WHERE CAN CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | You can carry in most places not specifically prohibited by law, including roadside rest areas, restaurants (non-bar areas), and state/national parks. Always adhere to posted signage and off-limits areas. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits locations in Michigan include K-12 schools, certain college dorms/classrooms, bars (primary income from alcohol), stadiums, large entertainment facilities (2,500+ seats), hospitals, casinos, secured airport areas, courts, and any place where firearms are prohibited by federal law. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. Michigan law prohibits obstructing or interfering with the lawful taking of animals or fish. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. You can carry concealed while hunting with a valid CPL. (Always confirm specific hunting regulations.) |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes. You may carry concealed while bow hunting with a valid CPL or other legal authorization. Note that a CPL does not permit using a pistol to take game unless allowed by law. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Out-the-front, double-edged automatic knives are restricted. Carrying a dagger, dirk, stiletto, or double-edged knife concealed is prohibited unless under certain exemptions (e.g., hunting knife in the field). Knives are not allowed in schools. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes, Michigan has no specific law against carrying concealed while wearing a COVID mask. It is only illegal to conceal one’s identity with the intent to commit a crime. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. The Michigan retired law enforcement officer’s firearm carry act (Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 28.511-28.527) allows certain retired officers to qualify under LEOSA. Contact MCOLES for details on certification and reciprocity. |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
