Michigan is a shall-issue state. Licenses are issued at the local level by county clerks.
A Michigan license to purchase a pistol, a valid CPL, or a background check are required to buy a handgun. Only residents are allowed to purchase handguns, though non-residents are allowed to purchase long guns. Although 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 in Michigan only for residents that are at least 18 years old and who can legally possess a firearm, provided the gun is registered in their name. Non-residents must have a valid concealed carry license from their home state in order to conceal or open carry. 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.
Concealed carry is legal for residents with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and for non-residents that are at least 21 years old and who have licenses/permits from their state of residency. CPLs are issued to residents only, with exceptions for active duty military stationed in Michigan as well as active duty military stationed outside of Michigan, if Michigan is the applicant’s home of record.
In addition Michigan Complied Laws Section 28.432a includes a list of individuals that are excepted from requiring a CPL, which includes specific peace officers, members of the military in the line of duty, etc. CPLs require successful completion of a firearms training course that has been state approved with at least eight hours of instruction, including three hours of range time. Some areas are off-limits to concealed carry, including schools and hospitals. In terms of reciprocity, Michigan recognizes resident licenses from all states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Where can I carry with my Michigan permit?
Yes
Yes, Constitutional Carry
Yes, Other Restrictions
No
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Important Firearm Laws
carry while using alcohol or controlled substances?
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.
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
public access to concealed carry registry?
No, however the information is available for law enforcement.
driver's license linked to carry license?
No
brandishing?
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.
red flag law?
Yes.
preemption?
Yes, the state has preemption over firearms laws in Michigan, except local municipalities may:
non-resident permitting?
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. Also, 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.
duty to inform officer you're carrying?
Yes. You have a duty to inform that you are carrying a concealed handgun upon contact with law enforcement.
"no weapons allowed" signs enforced?
No. "No Weapons" signs are not enforced in Michigan.
Carry Basics
minimum age for concealed carry?
The minimum age to carry concealed in Michigan is 21.
magazine limits for handguns?
No. Michigan law does not restrict magazine capacity in handguns.
ammunition restrictions?
Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited.
open carry permitted?
Yes, without a license for residents that are at least 18 years old and who 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.
gun permit licensure?
Michigan is a shall-issue state.
weapons other than handguns allowed?
License holders may carry concealed handguns and tasers.
constitutional carry?
No. Michigan does not recognize constitutional carry.
non-lethal weapons?
STUN GUNS & TASERS - 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:
you have a valid Michigan license to carry a concealed pistol;
you've received training in the use and risks of the Taser; and
the device has an identification and tracking system that allows it to be traced to the buyer (presumably through the darts) when it’s first used.
you have a valid Michigan license to carry a concealed pistol;
you've received training in the use and risks of the Taser; and
the device has an identification and tracking system that allows it to be traced to the buyer (presumably through the darts) when it’s first used.
It’s illegal to use a Taser except under circumstances that justify the legal use of physical force, including to defend yourself or someone else from an attack or sexual assault.
Stun Guns are illegal in Michigan.
PEPPER SPRAY - Legal for personal self-defense under Michigan Penal Code (MCL 750.224d) for those 18+. The amount of pepper spray a person can possess is limited to 18 ounces or less.
TEAR GAS - The use and possession of tear gas is generally prohibited under Michigan law.
BEAR SPRAY - Legal for self-defense of wildlife. Misuse against humans is prohibited. The same restrictions apply to bear spray as pepper spray.
BLUDGEONS AND BATONS - Expandable batons are generally illegal in Michigan. It is illegal to carry these weapons concealed or in a manner intended to harm others.
Items such as nightsticks and billy clubs are also prohibited.
BRASS KNUCKLES - Illegal to possess in Michigan. Carrying or using brass knuckles is classified as a felony.
byrna's?
Yes, Byrna's are generally legal in Michigan. They are not classified as firearms, but they can still be subject to certain restrictions.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
waiting period?
No. Michigan has no waiting period for the purchase of a handgun.
handgun purchase process
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 a 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.
A 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.
background checks for private gun sales?
Yes. A person acquiring any firearm must have a background check as of February, 2024.
possess a handgun on my private property without a license?
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.[Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. §§ 750.227(2)]
handgun registration?
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.
minimum age to possess and transport?
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, target/shooting ranges.purchase permits?
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.
Those with a valid Michigan Concealed Pistol license do not need to obtain a permit to purchase.
michigan license exempts from background check?
Yes. Having a valid CPL exempts you from a NICS background check.
Top Gun Laws & Concealed Carry Permit Information For Michigan Residents
Concealed Carry Basics Faq
carry while gun hunting?
Yes.
[Page 20 of Hunting & Trapping Digest]
what are the knife laws in michigan?
Only out-the-front, double-edged automatic knives are restricted in Michigan. A person shall not carry a dagger, dirk, stiletto, a double-edged non-folding stabbing instrument of any length or any other dangerous weapon, except a hunting knife adapted and carried as such, concealed on or about his or her person; nor concealed or otherwise in any vehicle operated or occupied by the person, except in his or her dwelling house, place of business or on other land possessed by the person. These knives can be carried openly, but cannot be carried in a vehicle. They must be placed in a secure area which cannot be accessed by anyone in the vehicle. It is illegal to carry a dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, or knife having a blade over 3 inches in length or any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument, with unlawful intent. In addition, knives are not allowed in schools.
wear a covid mask & carry?
The Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is no law in Michigan that makes it a crime to carry a weapon in while wearing a COVID 19 mask. However, it is illegal to intentionally conceal one's identity by wearing a mask for the purpose of facilitating the commission of a crime.
carry while bow hunting?
Yes, with a valid a concealed pistol license or properly carried 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.
hunter harassment law?
Yes. An individual shall not obstruct or interfere in the lawful taking of animals or fish by another individual.
Residency Changes:
Moving to Michigan and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?Michigan issues licenses to residents and active-duty military stationed in Michigan only. You can apply for your license to your county clerk once you have been 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, but Michigan is the applicant's home of record. However, 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.
Moving from Michigan and have a Michigan resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Michigan license remains valid?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.
Requirements:
An applicant must:
*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.
Application:
Fees:
Initial $100
Renewals $115
Valid For:
Approximately 5 years (on birthdate between 4 and 5 years from original issue)
Lost/Stolen licenses:
If your CPL is stolen, report that to your local police department. You may obtain a replacement license from the clerk's office for $10. Bring your government-issued picture ID (driver’s license, etc.) and the fee along with a copy of the police report, and a new licens will be re-issued to you.
Name/Address Changes:
Contact your county clerk for information regarding address/name changes.
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:
Michigan issues non-resident licenses only to active-duty military stationed in Michigan.
Processing Time:
45 days
Step 1:
Complete a firearm training course, if required.
Step 2:
Download the application or pick up from the county clerk's office.
Step 3:
Go to the county clerk's office of the county in which you reside and sign the application under oath. Include the following documents:
Pay the fee.
Step 4:
Have classifiable fingerprints taken by the county clerk, state police, sheriff’s office, local police agency or other entity that provides fingerprinting services. Provide the pistol application receipt to the provider.
Step 5:
The county clerk shall issue a license or notice of statutory disqualification within 45 days after the date the applicant has classifiable fingerprints taken.
store in a vehicle in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in Michigan state law, although employers may have a policy.
carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
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.
carry/possess at a hotel?
Michigan statutes don't specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and the individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
carry in vehicle?
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.
carry at roadside rest areas?
Yes. You may concealed carry at roadside rest areas in Michigan.
carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and wildlife management areas (wmas)?
Yes. You may carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Michigan. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Michigan.
tribal land
*Note that carry location restrictions can differ from tribe to tribe. It is best to read the statutes to know where you can and cannot carry on tribal lands that allow concealed carry.*
Bay Mills Indian Community - No. Tribal residents must have a permit signed by Tribal Authority. SS 610
Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians - Yes, with a permit from Michigan only. SS 107
Hannahville Indian Community, Band of Potawatomi - No. 1.2104
Little River Band of Ottawa - No. 14.01
Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians - Yes, with a valid permit from Michigan 9-107
Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi - Yes, with a valid Michigan permit SS 8.6-30
Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians - Yes, with a valid permit from his/her home state. Sec. 12
Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe - Yes, with a valid resident permit from his/her home state Ord. 11
Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians - Yes, with explicit permission from Tribal authority. 71.1301
Self Defense
Michigan is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. A person may use deadly force, with no duty to retreat anywhere he or she has the legal right to be. Any person who uses a gun legitimately in self-defense has immunity from civil liability.
Use of Non-deadly Force
An individual not engaged in the commission of a crime may use non-deadly force against another individual anywhere he or she has the legal right to be with no duty to retreat if the person honestly and reasonably believes that the use of that force is necessary to defend himself or herself or another individual from the imminent unlawful use of force by another individual.
Use of Deadly Force
An individual not engaged in the commission of a crime may use deadly force against another individual anywhere he or she has the legal right to be with no duty to retreat if the person honestly and reasonably believes that the use of that force is necessary to prevent:
Michigan Gun Law Updates
DateDetails
2025-04-07
Added non-lethal weapons to Carry Basics section.
2024-12-26
Added Tribal Land information to the Carry Locations section.
2024-02-13
Updated red flag laws, storage information, and permit to purchase
2021-05-18
Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2020-11-13
Added information on training exemption for retired LEOs in the Training Section
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