How to Purchase a Gun in Michigan

This article was co-authored by Francisco Pham and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure. Francisco Pham is a Firearms Instructor and the owner of Apex Pistol Training based in Maryland. Francisco has over 16 years of professional experience in competition shooting and firearms training. He is a highly skilled NRA-recommended firearm instructor and is an expert on firearm safety, usage, and maintenance.

This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.

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The procedure for buying a firearm in Michigan used to depend on whether you wanted to buy a handgun or a long gun. Now, the only difference is whether you’re buying a gun from a dealer or a private seller. We’ll break down the purchasing process so that you can know what to expect when you go to buy your firearm.

Purchasing a Gun in Michigan

If you’re buying through a licensed dealer, you do not need a purchase permit. Simply go to the dealer, pick out your gun, and complete a federal background check. For private sales, visit a police department first to get the permit and complete your background check. In either case, return the receipt from the sale to any local police department within 10 days of purchase.

Method 1 of 2:

Buying a Gun from a Private Seller

Step 1 Meet the basic requirements.

Step 2 Get a permit from your local police department (if you don’t have a CPL).

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Step 3 Pass the background check at the police precinct.

Step 4 Collect your approved purchase permit at the police station.

Step 5 Use the purchase permit and PSR to buy the weapon in Michigan.