Concealed Pistol License: Your Rights and Responsibilities

Many residents of Troy, Michigan, own guns to protect themselves, their property, and their loved ones. Anyone who wants to legally carry a gun in Michigan must get a concealed pistol license (CPL), which allows Michigan residents to carry a concealed firearm.

The process of obtaining a CPL in Michigan can be rather complicated, especially for those who do not understand their rights and responsibilities under state law. Speak with a gun rights attorney who can explain Michigan gun laws and help you if you have problems with obtaining a CPL. At Redmond Law Group, I represent clients in Troy, Michigan, and elsewhere in Macomb and Oakland counties and help them understand their rights and responsibilities under state law.

What Is a Concealed Pistol License (CPL)?

Under Michigan law, anyone can get a concealed pistol license if they meet specific eligibility requirements. You need the license to legally carry a concealed pistol. Carrying a concealed gun without the CPL or any attempts to purchase a pistol without the license can result in criminal charges. In order to get a CPL in Michigan, the first step to take is to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. If you do, you can prepare and file an application with the county clerk in the county where you live.

Michigan law requires every applicant to sign the application for a concealed pistol license under oath, which is administered by the county clerk. State requirements for getting a CPL in Michigan include:

• You must be 21 years of age or older;

• You must be a U.S. citizen or an immigrant lawfully admitted into the country; and

• You must be a resident of Michigan (if you are not a resident, you must have lived in the state for at least 180 days before filing the application).

Your Rights When Possessing a CPL

Unlike other states, Michigan is a shall-issue state where CPLs are issued by county clerks. You will most likely be issued a concealed pistol license in Michigan if the following is true:

1. You do not have felony convictions on your record. You cannot obtain a CPL if you have been convicted of a felony in Michigan or any other state. You are also not eligible for a CPL if a felony criminal case is pending against you. In addition, specific misdemeanor convictions may temporarily disqualify you from obtaining a CPL.

2. You have completed a safety training course. You must show that you have successfully completed a safety training course to demonstrate your ability to exercise gun safety and properly carry a pistol.

3. You have passed a background check. Everyone who files an application to get a concealed pistol license in Michigan must undergo a background check.

Your Responsibilities When Possessing a CPL

Having a concealed pistol license in Michigan comes with certain responsibilities, including:

• Disclosing to law enforcement that you are carrying a gun. If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer while carrying a concealed pistol on you or in your vehicle, you must immediately disclose to the officer that you are carrying the gun.

• You must always have your CPL with you when carrying a concealed gun. You must have your CPL at all times when carrying a concealed pistol. You must also show the following to a law enforcement officer upon request: your license to carry a concealed gun and your personal ID or driver’s license.

• You cannot carry a concealed pistol in certain places. Michigan law prohibits CPL holders from carrying concealed pistols on specific properties, including schools, colleges, hospitals, daycare centers, churches, casinos, sports arenas, and others.

How an Experienced Gun Rights Attorney Can Help You

As an experienced gun rights attorney at Redmond Law Group, I am committed to helping residents of Michigan get a CPL, appeal the denial of their application, and explain their rights and responsibilities under state law. Even if you do not meet eligibility requirements to get a concealed pistol license in Troy, Michigan, I can explain your options for restoring your gun rights. Get a case review today to discuss your particular situation.