subject: CPL Michigan Laws: What You Need for a Concealed Pistol License [print this page] CPL Michigan Laws: What You Need for a Concealed Pistol License
If you are interested in becoming a gun owner, knowing the CPL Michigan rules is essential. Making the decision to protect yourself and your family by applying for a concealed pistol license (CPL) or concealed carry weapons permit (CCW) as they are sometimes known, is a big decision. It requires a thorough understanding of the legal issues surrounding firearms ownership and use, as well as a willingness to use and carry a potentially deadly weapon around with you on a regular basis.
Getting a CPL in Michigan
If you are interested in getting a concealed weapons permit in Michigan, where the permit is known as CPLs, you will want to read up on the requirements and laws surrounding the CPL Michigan license so that you can ensure you have everything you need when you apply.
Understanding a "Shall Issue" Permit
One of the first things that you will learn about the Michigan CPL permit is that it is something referred to as a "shall issue permit." This means that anyone who is not a convicted criminal or who has not been deemed mentally unstable, and who can meet the basic requirements of the court to receive a permit, must be issued a permit by the court.
Many states have a requirement that you can only receive a permit if the state feels that you have a need, or if that state feels that your application is valid because there is an existing threat against you. This, of course, makes it more difficult to get a concealed carry permit. However, under CPL Michigan rules, Michigan's shall issue law requires the state to issue a permit for any reason, simply because you want one, as long as you meet the basic qualifications. This is important, because it means the process for receiving a permit is in your favor, and you will likely not be denied unless you have a criminal background or other negative information in your past.
The Michigan CPL Requirements
The main requirements to receive this permit are that you must be 21 years of age, and you must have been a legal resident of the state of Michigan for at least six months prior to applying for your permit. Residency is established through either a driver's license, voter registration, or armed services assignment that stations you permanently in Michigan. You must also take a one day concealed carry weapons permit class, which you will have to pay for, that covers all of the laws and safety issues surrounding firearms carry and ownership, and that includes a shooting component that gives you practical experience with firing a weapon.
Assuming that you have no felony convictions in your past, and that you are not a prohibited person based on any mental incapacitation or having been convicted of any misdemeanors that are deemed prohibitive, it will take anywhere from one to three months to have your application processed, after which time you will receive your permit and be legally able to carry a concealed weapon in the state of Michigan.
