Michigan CPL: Requirements, Training, and Renewal Guide for 2026

Michigan's Concealed Pistol License (CPL) is a shall-issue permit that requires an 8-hour training course and fingerprinting. Michigan is not a constitutional carry state, so a CPL is required to carry a concealed handgun.

This guide covers everything Michigan residents need to know about the CPL process in 2026.

Michigan CPL Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be a Michigan resident
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law
• Not have been convicted of a felony
• Not have been convicted of certain misdemeanors within the past 8 years
• Not be subject to a domestic violence protective order
• Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent or involuntarily committed
• Not be under indictment for a felony
• Complete an approved 8-hour pistol safety training course

Michigan CPL Training Requirements

Michigan requires completion of an approved 8-hour pistol safety training course. The course must be taught by a Michigan-certified instructor and must include:

• Safe storage and handling of firearms
• Michigan firearms laws
• Legal use of force in Michigan
• Live-fire qualification (minimum 98 rounds)

Michigan does not accept online-only training. The course must include an in-person component with live-fire.

How to Apply for a Michigan CPL

Applications are processed through the county clerk in the applicant's county of residence.

1. Complete your 8-hour training course and obtain your certificate
2. Complete the CPL application
3. Submit fingerprints through an approved IdentoGO location
4. Pay the $115 application fee to your county clerk
5. Pass a background check
6. Receive your CPL (within 45 days by law)

Michigan CPL Costs

| Fee Component | Amount | |---------------|--------| | Application fee | $115 | | Fingerprinting (IdentoGO) | $15 | | Training course (estimated) | $75–$200 | | Total | $205–$330 |

Michigan CPLs are valid for 5 years. Renewal fees are $115.

Michigan CPL Reciprocity

Michigan's CPL is recognized by more than 35 states. States that honor the Michigan CPL include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Carrying in Michigan: Key Rules

Prohibited locations: Michigan prohibits carry in schools and school property, day care centers, sports arenas, bars and taverns, churches (unless the governing body permits carry), entertainment facilities with a capacity over 2,500, hospitals, casinos, dormitories, and other locations specified by state law.

Duty to inform: Michigan requires CPL holders to immediately disclose to a law enforcement officer that they have a CPL and whether they are carrying when stopped.

Alcohol: Carrying while under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. Michigan also prohibits carry in establishments licensed to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption.

Michigan CPL Renewal

Michigan CPLs must be renewed every 5 years. The renewal process requires:

1. Completion of a 3-hour refresher training course
2. Submission of a renewal application to your county clerk
3. Payment of the $115 renewal fee
4. Passing a background check

Renewals can be submitted up to 6 months before expiration.

<div style="background: linear-gradient(135deg, #1a2744 0%, #2d4a8a 100%); border-radius: 12px; padding: 2rem; margin: 2rem 0; text-align: center;"> <h3 style="color: #f0c040; margin-bottom: 1rem;">Get Your Michigan CPL</h3> <p style="color: #e2e8f0; margin-bottom: 1.5rem;">Check your eligibility and start the process today.</p> <a href="https://go.safetyccw.com/cf/click/1" style="background: #f0c040; color: #1a2744; padding: 0.875rem 2rem; border-radius: 8px; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; display: inline-block;">Check Your Eligibility →</a> </div>

Frequently Asked Questions About the Michigan CPL

How long does it take to get a Michigan CPL?

Michigan law requires the county clerk to issue or deny a CPL within 45 days of application.

Does Michigan accept online CCW training?

No. Michigan requires an in-person 8-hour training course with a live-fire component.

How many states honor the Michigan CPL?

More than 35 states recognize the Michigan Concealed Pistol License.

What is the renewal process for a Michigan CPL?

Michigan CPL holders must complete a 3-hour refresher course and submit a renewal application with a $115 fee every 5 years.

Can I carry in a restaurant in Michigan?

No. Michigan prohibits carry in establishments licensed to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption.