Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Michigan operates as a shall-issue state, with licenses distributed at the local level by county clerks. To purchase a handgun, residents need a Michigan license or a background check. Non-residents are allowed to buy long guns but not handguns. While there is no firearm registry, all handgun sales require a pistol sales record form to be filed with the Michigan State Police.
Open carry is legal for Michigan residents who are at least 18 years old and can legally possess a firearm, provided the gun is registered in their name. Non-residents must possess a valid concealed carry license from their home state to open or conceal carry in Michigan. Open carry is permitted in more locations than concealed carry, as the restrictions listed in Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.425o apply only to concealed carry.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Concealed carry is legal for Michigan residents with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and for non-residents who are at least 21 years old and have licenses or permits from their home state. CPLs are issued exclusively to residents, with exceptions for active duty military personnel stationed in Michigan or whose home of record is Michigan. Michigan Complied Laws Section 28.432a lists individuals exempt from requiring a CPL, including certain peace officers and military members in the line of duty. Obtaining a CPL necessitates completing a state-approved firearms training course with a minimum of eight hours of instruction, including three hours of range time. Certain areas, such as schools and hospitals, are off-limits to concealed carry. Michigan recognizes resident licenses from all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
Michigan adheres to the Castle Doctrine and has a “stand your ground” law. This allows individuals to use deadly force without a duty to retreat, anywhere they have the legal right to be. Those who use a gun legitimately in self-defense are granted immunity from civil liability.
An individual not involved in a crime may use non-deadly force against another person anywhere they have the legal right to be, without a duty to retreat. This is permissible if the individual believes, honestly and reasonably, that such force is necessary to defend themselves or another person from imminent unlawful force.
An individual not involved in a crime may use deadly force against another person anywhere they have the legal right to be, without a duty to retreat. This is permissible if the individual believes, honestly and reasonably, that such force is necessary to prevent:
- Imminent death or great bodily harm to themselves or another person; or
- Imminent sexual assault of themselves or another person.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Question: Can you carry weapons other than handguns in Michigan with a concealed carry license?
Answer: License holders may carry concealed handguns and tasers.
Question: Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Michigan?
Answer: Yes, it is legal to use pepper spray for self-defense. Individuals may possess self-defense spray or foam devices containing no more than 35 grams of orthochlorobenzalmalononitrile and inert ingredients, with no more than 18% oleoresin capsicum. Minors cannot purchase or possess pepper spray.
Question: Does Michigan have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
Answer: No, Michigan law does not restrict magazine capacity in handguns.
Question: Does Michigan have ammunition restrictions?
Answer: Yes, armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited.
Question: Does Michigan allow constitutional carry?
Answer: No, Michigan does not recognize constitutional carry.
Question: Is open carry permitted in Michigan?
Answer: Yes, open carry is allowed for residents who are at least 18 years old and can legally possess a firearm, provided the gun is registered in their name. Non-residents must have a permit from their home state. Open carry is allowed in more places than concealed carry as the restricted areas referenced in Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.425o apply to concealed carry and not to open carry.
Question: How are licenses to carry a concealed firearm issued in Michigan?
Answer: Michigan is a shall-issue state.
Question: What is the minimum age to get a concealed carry license in Michigan?
Answer: The minimum age to carry concealed in Michigan is 21.
Question: Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Michigan?
Answer: Yes and no. A concealed carry license is required to purchase or possess a Taser. Permittees may have and use a Taser in a reasonable way, as long as:
- They have a valid Michigan license to carry a concealed pistol.
- They have received training in the use and risks of the Taser.
- The device has an identification and tracking system that allows it to be traced to the buyer.
It is illegal to use a Taser except under circumstances that justify the legal use of physical force, including self-defense or defending someone else from an attack or sexual assault. Stun guns are illegal in Michigan.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Michigan?
Yes. You may concealed carry at roadside rest areas in Michigan.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Michigan?
You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol with a valid concealed carry license, unless posted and provided you’re not under the influence (blood alcohol level >0.02). However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars.
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Michigan?
Michigan statutes don’t specifically address firearms at hotels. Each hotel develops its own policies, so contact the individual hotel to inquire about its concealed carry policy.
Does Michigan have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
This is not addressed in Michigan state law, although employers may have a policy.
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Michigan?
Yes, handguns only may be carried with a valid concealed pistol license. Without a license, handguns must be unloaded and in a closed case designed for the storage of firearms either in the trunk of the vehicle or, for vehicles without a trunk, not readily accessible to the occupants of the vehicle.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Michigan?
Yes. You may carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Michigan.
Question: Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Michigan?
Answer: Yes. You have a duty to inform that you are carrying a concealed handgun upon contact with law enforcement. [Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.425f(3)]
Question: Does Michigan have a red flag law?
Answer: Yes.
Question: Does Michigan state law define brandishing?
Answer: Yes. A person may not willfully and knowingly brandish (to point, wave about, or display in a threatening manner with the intent to produce fear in another) a firearm in public except in a lawful act of self-defense or the defense of another. [Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.234e]
Question: Does Michigan allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
Answer: No, however, the information is available for law enforcement.
Question: Is my Michigan driver’s license linked to my Michigan carry license?
Answer: No.
Question: Does Michigan have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?
Answer: Not while under the influence of alcoholic liquor (BAC of 0.02 or greater) or a controlled substance, or while having a bodily alcohol content prohibited under this section. “Controlled substance” means that term as defined in MCL § 333.7104. “Under the influence of alcoholic liquor or a controlled substance” means that the individual’s ability to properly handle a pistol or to exercise clear judgment regarding the use of that pistol was substantially and materially affected by the consumption of alcoholic liquor or a controlled substance. [Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.425k]
Note: As a responsibly armed American, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Question: Does Michigan issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?
Answer: Yes, only to active-duty military stationed in Michigan or active duty military stationed outside of Michigan, but Michigan is the applicant’s home of record. Additionally, if a new Michigan resident has a current concealed carry license from another state, Michigan will accept that and waive the 6-month residency requirement.
Question: Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Michigan?
Answer: No. “No Weapons” signs are not enforced in Michigan.
Question: Does Michigan have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Answer: Yes, the state has preemption over firearms laws in Michigan, except local municipalities may:
- Prohibit the discharge of firearms or pneumatic guns (with some restrictions on the latter prohibition) within the jurisdiction of a city or charter township;
- Prohibit or regulate conduct with a firearm or pneumatic gun that is a criminal offense under state law; and
- Prohibit or regulate the transportation, carrying, or possession of firearms or pneumatic guns by employees of a local unit of government in the course of their employment with that local unit of government. [Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 123.1102–1104]
Yes. A license is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a handgun about a person’s place of business, residence, land that he or she owns, or between the person’s dwelling and place of business.
Yes. A person acquiring any firearm must have a background check as of February 2024.
Does my current Michigan concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
No.
No. Michigan has no waiting period for the purchase of a handgun.
18 years old. Generally, an individual less than 18 years of age shall not possess a firearm in public except under the direct supervision of an individual 18 years of age or older, although there are exceptions for hunting and target shooting ranges.
Although there is no firearm registry, all handgun sales require a Pistol Sales Record (RI-60) form to be filed with the Michigan State Police. There are several exceptions, including but not limited to police officers.
Only Michigan residents may purchase pistols in Michigan. A National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check is performed on all commercial firearm sales at the time of purchase. The Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) may elect to use a valid Michigan License to Purchase a Pistol (received from your local police department) in lieu of a NICS background check. The buyer must be at least 21 years of age, a resident of Michigan, possess a clean criminal background, and be mentally stable.
- Only a Michigan resident may purchase a handgun in Michigan.
- A NICS background check is performed on all commercial firearm sales at the time of purchase. The FFL may elect to use a valid Michigan License to Purchase a Pistol (LTP) or have the purchaser complete a Federal Form 4473 for a NICS background check.
- To purchase a pistol in a private transaction, the buyer must have a Michigan CPL or LTP.
License to Purchase a Pistol (RI-10 Form):
- A License to Purchase a Pistol can only be obtained from your local police or sheriff’s office. You will need a valid Michigan driver’s license or Michigan state ID with your current address listed to get your license. Generally, the background check that is conducted to get an LTP will take between 24 and 48 hours, and you will be allowed to pick up your license after that criminal and mental health record background check has been completed.
- An LTP must be used within 30 days of the date it is issued or it will be void. One copy of your RI-10 will be kept on record by the seller, one by the purchaser, and the third must be filed with the Michigan State Police through your local police department within 10 days of your purchase.
Alabama (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Alaska (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Arizona (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Arkansas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
California (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Connecticut (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Delaware (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
District of Columbia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Florida (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Georgia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Hawaii (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Idaho (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Illinois (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Indiana (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Iowa (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Kansas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Kentucky (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Louisiana (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Maine (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Maryland (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Massachusetts (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Minnesota (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Missouri (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Montana (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Nebraska (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Nevada (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
New Hampshire (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
New Jersey (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
New Mexico (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
New York (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
New York City (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
North Carolina (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
North Dakota (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Ohio (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Oklahoma (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Oregon (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Pennsylvania (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Puerto Rico (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Rhode Island (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
South Carolina (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
South Dakota (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Tennessee (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Texas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Utah (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Vermont (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Virginia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Washington (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
West Virginia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Wisconsin (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Wyoming (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Michigan recognizes resident permits from all states, regardless of the age of the license holder. Residents must have a Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) in order to carry in the state.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Delaware
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Louisiana
Minnesota
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (resident permits only)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old
*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old
Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Have completed an approved pistol training class.
- Be a legal resident of the State of Michigan for at least 6 months, active duty military permanently stationed in Michigan, or active duty military stationed outside of Michigan with Michigan as the home of record.
- Have a valid State ID.
- Be a citizen of the U.S. or a lawfully admitted alien.
- Not have been convicted of a felony or have felony charges pending.
- Not be subject to an order or disposition for involuntary hospitalization, legal incapacitation, personal protection order, bond or conditional release prohibiting purchase or possession of a firearm, or a finding of not guilty by reason of insanity.
- Not be prohibited from possessing, using, transporting, selling, purchasing, carrying, shipping, receiving, or distributing a firearm under Michigan law.
- Not have been dishonorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces.
- Not have been convicted of certain misdemeanors in the 8 years immediately preceding the application.
- Not have been convicted of certain misdemeanors in the 3 years immediately preceding the application.
- Not have been found guilty of any crime by reason of insanity.
- Not have a diagnosed mental illness that presents a danger to oneself or others.
- Not be detrimental to the safety of oneself or any other person.
- Meet federal law requirements.
Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Michigan.
- Initial: $100
- Renewals: $115
Approximately 5 years (on birthdate between 4 and 5 years from original issue).
45 days
Link to application
Michigan issues non-resident licenses only to active-duty military stationed in Michigan.
Contact your county clerk for information regarding address/name changes.
If your CPL is stolen, report it to your local police department. You may obtain a replacement license from the clerk’s office for $10. Bring your government-issued picture ID, the fee, and a copy of the police report.
- Moving to Michigan: You can apply for a resident license once you have been a legal resident of the State of Michigan for at least 6 months, are active duty military permanently stationed in Michigan, or are active duty military stationed outside of Michigan with Michigan as your home of record. If you have a current concealed carry license from another state, Michigan will accept that and waive the 6-month residency requirement.
- Moving from Michigan: If a person with a Michigan concealed pistol license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.
- What is the first step to applying for a concealed pistol license? Complete a firearm training course, if required.
- How do I obtain the application form? You can download the application or pick it up from the county clerk’s office.
- What do I need to do at the county clerk’s office? Go to the county clerk’s office where you reside. Sign the application under oath and submit:
- Training certificate
- A passport-quality photograph Pay the required fee.
- How do I get my fingerprints taken? Have classifiable fingerprints taken by the county clerk, state police, sheriff’s office, local police agency, or another authorized entity. Provide the pistol application receipt to the fingerprinting provider.
- When will I receive my license? The county clerk will issue a license or provide notice of statutory disqualification within 45 days after your fingerprints are taken.
Michigan law mandates that applicants for a concealed pistol license must provide proof of completing pistol safety training from an instructor certified by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES). The training, conducted within 5 years preceding the application date, covers the following topics:
- Safe storage, use, and handling of a pistol, with an emphasis on safeguarding children.
- Knowledge of ammunition and the fundamentals of pistol shooting.
- Various pistol-shooting positions.
- Understanding firearms laws, including civil liability implications.
- Techniques for avoiding criminal attacks and managing violent confrontations.
- Familiarity with all Michigan laws pertinent to carrying a concealed pistol.
- Completion of a minimum 8-hour course, which includes at least 3 hours of firing range practice.
New applicants who are retired police officers or law enforcement officers, as defined in MCL 28.421(1)(o), are exempt from the pistol safety training course requirement.
Renewals are the responsibility of the licensee and must be submitted within specific timelines. The county clerk notifies CPL holders of impending expiration three to six months in advance. Renewal options include in-person at the county clerk’s office, via U.S. Mail, or online.
If eligible, CPL holders receive a renewal notice containing a PIN for online renewal. Alternatively, download the CPL renewal application from the county clerk’s office.
For non-online renewals, visit the county clerk’s office in person or send the completed application via U.S. Mail to:
MSP CPL Unit
P.O. Box 30634
Lansing, Michigan 48909
Submit the application with fees to receive a receipt extending the current license until the renewal or statutory disqualification notice is issued.
Certify completion of at least three hours of training review and one hour of firing range practice within six months prior to the renewal application.
The issuing authority processes the application and issues either a renewed license or a notice of statutory disqualification accordingly.
You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol, unless posted, provided you’re not under the influence (blood alcohol level >0.02). However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars.
No, you cannot carry in your vehicle without a permit/license.
Yes, you can carry in roadside rest areas.
Yes, you can carry in state/national parks, forests, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs).
Places off-limits even with a permit/license include:
- “Weapon free school zones,” including K-12 schools and school transport vehicles (except for parents/guardians dropping off or picking up students).
- Child care centers, day care centers, child-caring institutions, and child-placing agencies.
- Dormitories or classrooms of community colleges, colleges, or universities.
- Sports arenas or stadiums.
- Bars or taverns primarily selling alcoholic liquor by the glass for on-premises consumption.
- Properties or facilities owned or operated by places of worship (unless permitted by the presiding official).
- Entertainment facilities with a seating capacity of 2,500 or more individuals.
- Hospitals.
- University of Michigan, Michigan State University (visitors with valid licenses may carry on campus), and Wayne State University.
- Secured areas of commercial airports.
- Casinos.
- Any courtroom, office, or space used for official court business or by judicial employees without prior approval.
- Places where carrying firearms is prohibited by federal law.
The Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is no law in Michigan that makes it a crime to carry a weapon while wearing a COVID-19 mask. However, intentionally concealing one’s identity by wearing a mask for the purpose of facilitating the commission of a crime is illegal.
Mich. Pen. Code § 750.396
Yes, concealed carry is permitted while shotgun/rifle hunting in Michigan.
Page 20 of Hunting & Trapping Digest
Yes, with a valid concealed pistol license or under authority of a specific exception from the requirement of a concealed pistol license. However, a concealed pistol license does not authorize the individual to use the pistol to take game except as provided by law.
Yes. An individual shall not obstruct or interfere in the lawful taking of animals or fish by another individual.
Mich. Comp. Laws § 324.40112
Only out-the-front, double-edged automatic knives are restricted in Michigan. Various knives are prohibited, including those concealed on or about one’s person or in a vehicle. Knives with unlawful intent are strictly prohibited, and specific regulations apply regarding knives in schools.
Mich. Penal Code § 750.227, § 750.222a, § 750.226
Updated red flag laws, storage information, and permit to purchase.
Added info on driver’s license link to permit in At A Glance table.
Added information on training exemption for retired LEOs in the Training Section.
At the USCCA, our mission is to equip responsible gun owners with the knowledge and training they need. We strive to provide the most current and comprehensive list of self-defense laws for every state.
If you have any questions that are not addressed here, please reach out to us at [email protected]. We are committed to resolving your inquiries promptly. Your feedback is crucial in making this page the best resource for responsible gun owners!
Permit numbers cited are sourced from the Crime Prevention Resource Center’s publication titled, “Concealed Carry Permit Holders Across the United States.” This includes both resident and non-resident permits for states issuing both types.
The information on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community. It does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to cover all aspects of concealed carry laws nationwide, we make no claims regarding the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information provided. Legal advice should always be tailored to individual circumstances. Laws are subject to change, and this website should not be used as a substitute for consulting with a qualified attorney.
For questions regarding USCCA Membership, Delta Defense, handgun laws, or the lawful process of carrying concealed, please contact the Delta Defense Customer Engagement Team.
