How to Get a License to Purchase a Pistol in Michigan (2026 Guide)
Updated October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
If you’re buying a pistol in Michigan, you’ll most likely need a License to Purchase (LTP) first. Since February 13, 2024, that’s true whether you buy from a dealer like ICB Firearms or from a private seller. Here’s who needs one, how to get it, and where to apply in our area.
Who needs a License to Purchase
Buying a pistol: You need an LTP, from a dealer or a private seller, unless you hold a Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL). A few others are exempt too, such as licensed Michigan law enforcement officers and FFLs.
Buying a rifle or shotgun from a dealer: No LTP needed. The dealer runs the federal background check at the counter.
Buying a rifle or shotgun in a private sale: You need an LTP or a CPL.
How to get a License to Purchase
Go to the right agency. Apply with the police department where you live. If your community doesn’t have its own police department, apply with the county sheriff.
Bring your ID. You’ll need a valid Michigan driver’s license or state ID with your current address.
Fill out the application. Many departments require the application to be notarized, and some offer a notary on site.
Pass the background check. The department checks your eligibility before issuing the license. Some departments process applications while you wait, and others take a few days or mail the license.
Your LTP is valid for 30 days. Plan your purchase or transfer pickup within that window.
What happens when you buy the pistol
The seller completes the sales record and returns the police copy within 10 days, which registers the pistol in your name. Keep your copy with your other important papers. If you buy a pistol online, have it shipped to ICB Firearms, then bring your LTP (or CPL) and ID to your pickup appointment.
Where to apply in our area
St. Clair Shores: St. Clair Shores Police Department
Warren, Sterling Heights, Roseville, Eastpointe: your city’s police department
Mount Clemens and Harrison Township: Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, which polices both communities
Detroit and Harper Woods: Detroit Police Department or Harper Woods Police Department
The Grosse Pointes: your city’s Department of Public Safety
Troy: Troy Police Department
Call ahead for hours, notary availability and what to bring, since every department handles this a little differently.
Skip the LTP with a Concealed Pistol License
If you buy pistols often, a Michigan CPL replaces the License to Purchase. To get one, you must be at least 21, a Michigan resident for at least six months, and complete an 8-hour pistol safety course (including 3 hours on a range). Apply through your county clerk:
Macomb County: Macomb County Clerk, 120 N. Main St., Mount Clemens
Wayne County: Wayne County Clerk, 400 Monroe St., Detroit
Oakland County: Oakland County Clerk, with offices in Pontiac and Troy (Troy by appointment)
A new CPL is $100 and a renewal is $115, plus fingerprinting fees.
