Detroit Michigan CCW/CPL Training Classes - Frequently Asked Questions

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CCW/CPL Class Notification E-List

CCW/CPL Class Student Testimonials

The Following Are On File In Our Office:

"Rick, Sorry that it has taken me so long to thank you. Although the class alone can't protect me or my family from danger, it has improved our ability to defend ourselves. The techniques and information that we covered in the class have taught me to be more aware and prepared period. I am more confident and comfortable when I leave home, knowing that I'm better prepared to address potentially dangerous confrontational situations. Once again thank you and I look forward to Session II (Personal Protection Outside The Home Course)."
- Mr. A. L. Odell III, Auto Industry Employee, Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan 48075

"Hello Rick. Sorry it took so long to get back to you. Just to let you know, I've got my CCW license and I bought a 9mm S+W (M&P) semi-automatic. I had intentions of getting a revolver, but after seeing and shooting your semi-automatic, I changed my mind. As for your class, I found that you were not only knowledgeable but you were also enthusiastic. What really impressed me was the fact that when we went to the gun range, I was a little short on money, you were kind enough to let me use your gun. This is what convinced me to buy a 9mm. I appreciate your help and I would (and do) recommend your class to anyone wanting to get their permit. Thank you."
- Mr. C. W. Miller, Retiree, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48219

"Rick, from the very beginning you showed a very professional demeanor. You also did this while being a friendly guy. You extended your knowledge, experience, and information, in a fun way but when it came time to get critical info or techniques across you became very serious to get the point across effectively. I totally appreciated your class and when I am ready to advance in my training in the area of becoming a 'PROFESSIONAL' in the use of a sidearm I will be in touch. I am sorry it took so long to get back to you but I pray that 'better late than never' applies. Sincerely,"
- Mr. M. Kleckler, Ferndale, Oakland County, Michigan 48220

“Rick, I want to thank you again for the class. It was very informational and helpful to my knowledge as to how to properly use and store a sidearm as well as knowing the whole concept of personal and family self-defense. Bringing in an attorney to answer legal questions was a huge plus. You mentioned something about an advanced class where there are tactical concepts and other aspects of pistol training. I may be interested in taking that class in the future. Would you have any information on that? The range was a great experience. All the information being said was one thing, but nothing beats the experience to tie in the practical use to what was being taught in class in terms of properly handling a sidearm and to follow all the safety rules regarding it. Thanks again very much! If I have any questions I will be sure to contact you. You have been a great instructor. Sincerely,”
- Mr. H. Sam, Sterling Heights, Macomb County, Michigan 48313

“Hello Rick, I just wanted to thank you once again for the class. It was great information. Actually I did not know a lot of things that was taught to me. Even if you do not want to carry a gun and just want to have one in your home, the class is very useful. I have and will continue to recommend the class to everyone. It was taught in a great timely fashion, and material was explained very professionally. Thanks again!”
- Ms. S. Hardrick, Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan 48075

"I found the class to be very informative. Rick delivered information in a way to be understood, interactive, and enjoyable - not boring. I would take other classes that Rick teaches. Thank you for a good experience."
- Ms. K. Dolgos, Redford, Wayne County, Michigan 48239

"Good Afternoon Rick! I'm excited to here that things are going good for you and you're continuing to get more and more exposure. You're an excellent instructor and you deserve it. Thank you again for all of your help and the newsletter is a wonderful idea!"
- Ms. E. Childress, Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan, 48075

Basic Michigan CCW/CPL Questions

What Is The Difference Between A CCW And A CPL?
A CCW - Carrying A Concealed Weapon - is a crime in which a person unlawfully possesses a hidden weapon on or about his person. In contrast, a CPL - Concealed Pistol License - is a document granted by the state of Michigan which authorizes the named licensee to possess a concealed pistol on or about his person. In many contexts, many people use the two terms - CCW and CPL - interchangeably.
Is There A Household Limit On The Number Of CPL Licensees Living Together?
No. There is absolutely no limit on the number of people, who are allowed to be issued Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPLs), living in one household.
Will My Neighbor Know If I Have a CPL?
No. By statute, CPL Licensee information is not subject to disclosure or public dissemination via the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA).
How Many Guns Can I Carry With A Michigan CCW/CPL?
You can carry as many concealed guns on your person or in your car as you desire.
Do You Need A CPL To "Openly Carry" A Pistol?
No. If the carrier, who is not barred by law from possessing a firearm, has the pistol openly displayed in a holster and is not in a "Pistol Free Zone", he is not in violation of the law. Keep in mind that a handgun in a car is considered "concealed" and requires a CPL unless it is being properly transported.
What Are Pistol Free Zones?
Pistol Free Zones are places where people with restricted Michigan CCW/CPL licenses, are not legally able to visit while armed with a pistol:
- Casinos (e.g. MotorCity Casino, MGM Grand Casino, and Greektown Casino)
- Courtrooms (e.g. 36th District Courthouse)
- Hospitals (e.g. Detroit Receiving Hospital)
- Daycare Centers & Schools
- University Classrooms & Dormitories
- Sports Arenas (e.g. Ford Field, Joe Louis Arena, and Comerica Park)
- Entertainment Facilities Seating 2,500 or more (e.g. Fox Theatre, Music Hall, and the DSO)
- Churches (unless you have permission)
- Establishments that earn more than 50% of their income from the sale of alcohol by the glass to be served on the premises.
  
  Note: Retired law enforcement officers with a CCW/CPL and Michigan licensed private investigators are exempt.
  Note: The parking lots of the aforementioned Pistol Free Zones are exempt.
Does Having A CPL Invalidate Your Right To "Openly Carry" A Pistol?
No. Many "law enforcement types" have been spreading this false rumor in an apparent effort to discourage citizens from openly carrying their firearms, which is legal.
How Do I Legally Transport A Gun In A Car?
The proper way to transport a gun in your car, without a CCW/CPL, is to have it (the gun) unloaded, separated from ammunition, and locked in a gun case in your car's trunk. If you are bringing your gun to our training class, do not bring live ammunition inside to the classroom.
Can A Person Lawfully Carry An AK-47 With A CPL?
No. An AK-47 is a rifle. A Concealed Pistol License (CPL) only allows its licensee to carry a concealed pistol. Furthemore, a CPL also does not allow a licensee to carry around a concealed shotgun.
Can I Buy A Gun Without A Michigan CCW/CPL?
Yes. Assuming that you are not legally prohibited from buying or possessing a gun (e.g. having a felony), you merely have to visit your city's main law enforcement agency and request a 10-Day Purchase Permit at no charge (i.e. free). You may need to take and complete a short gun safety quiz. At this point, the agency will run a quick background check. If there are no issues, you will be issued the 10-Day Purchase Permit. With this permit, you must buy a gun within 10 days or you will have to repeat the prior steps.

If you are at least 18 years old but less than 21 years of age, you can only legally buy a gun from a private seller. If you are at least 21 years of age, you can buy a gun from a federal firearms licensee - FFL - (i.e. a gun shop). In any case, the seller will keep one part of the 10-Day Purchase Permit as part of the sales process. You will then properly transport your gun, along with the remaining two parts of the 10-Day Purchase Permit, to your local law enforcement agency within 10 days to have your gun safety inspected. (Read How To Buy A Handgun In Michigan)
Do I Need A CPL If I Just Want To Have A Handgun In My Home?
No. However, if you have never fired a handgun you should strongly consider registering for the CCW/CPL Class so that you will know not only how to use your firearm but also know when you can legally use it at home in a defensive encounter. Ignorance of the law is no excuse.
After I Get A Michigan CCW/CPL, Will I Be A "Deputized" Citizen?
No. You will have neither arrest authority nor the ability to pursue alleged criminals. Further, your usage of deadly force is only authorized under a narrow set of circumstances. You need to either take a CCW/CPL Class with a competent attorney conducting the legal material or discuss self defense and lethal force with your lawyer.
Can I Travel With My Gun If I Have A Michigan CCW/CPL?
Yes. You can travel via car to any intra-state city with a gun on your person or in your car, as long as you do not enter into a Pistol Free Zone. If you are traveling inter-state, you have to know the CCW/CPL laws of each state that you will be traveling through on your way to your destination. Please note that all states do not recognize a Michigan CCW/CPL, so you must visit each state's web site for reciprocity information. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. If you must enter into a non-reciprocal state, you must put your unloaded gun - separate from ammunition - in a locked case in your trunk. Moreover, if you are flying with your gun, you must follow the TSA's Guidelines verbatim and follow any airline specific requirements.

(See Reciprocal State Info and TSA Travel Info on our Articles Page)

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