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Buying a pistol in Michigan

Michigan is one of the few states that records every pistol sale, but buying one from a dealer is still one visit. Here is exactly what happens, and what you do and don't need.

The short answer most people are looking for: you do not need a License to Purchase when you buy from a licensed dealer. The dealer runs the federal background check and fills out the state's Pistol Sales Record. The License to Purchase from your police department is for private sales, gifts and inheritances.

1. Choose a dealer
Any Michigan FFL that accepts shipped transfers. Call and ask their fee.
2. Order here
Name that dealer at checkout. We get a copy of their license and ship to them.
3. Form 4473 + NICS
At the counter you fill out the federal form and the dealer runs the background check.
4. Pistol Sales Record
The dealer completes Michigan form RI-060. Keep your copy with the pistol for 30 days.

What to bring to the dealer

  • A Michigan driver's license or state ID with your current address.
  • Your CPL if you have one. It goes on the Pistol Sales Record, but it is not required to buy.
  • The transfer fee, paid to the dealer, commonly $20 to $75.

Private sales, gifts and inheritance

If you buy a pistol from another person, the buyer needs a License to Purchase from local police (or a CPL), and both of you fill out the form. The License to Purchase goes back to the issuing agency within 10 days. Since February 2024 the same background-check rule covers private sales of rifles and shotguns too.

Full-size pistols

All pistols →

Compact carry pistols

Michigan CPL guide →

Common questions

Do I need a License to Purchase to buy a pistol from a dealer?

No. A License to Purchase is not needed when you buy from a federally licensed dealer, and it is not needed if you hold a Michigan CPL. It is needed for private sales and for pistols you inherit or are given, unless you have a CPL.

What is the Pistol Sales Record?

Michigan State Police form RI-060, filled out in three copies: one for the dealer, one for you and one for local law enforcement. The dealer sends the police copy within 10 days and the sale is entered into the state pistol database. Carry your copy with the pistol for the first 30 days.

How old do I have to be to buy a pistol in Michigan?

21 to buy from a dealer, which is federal law. Michigan itself allows 18-year-olds to own a pistol, but only through a private sale with a License to Purchase.

Is there a waiting period?

No. Michigan has no waiting period. If the background check comes back clear, you can take the pistol home the same visit.

I just moved to Michigan. Do I need to register my pistols?

Yes. New residents should contact their local police department, pass the background check and record each pistol on a License to Purchase form, writing "purchased in the State of ..." in the seller box.

Can I carry the pistol home?

Without a CPL, transport it unloaded in a closed case in the trunk. With a CPL you can carry it as your license allows.

More Michigan guides

General information, not legal advice. Current as of September 2026. Ask your local police department or a Michigan attorney about your own situation.