Michigan Firearm Bill of Sale Overview
Michigan requires a License to Purchase a Pistol (or a valid CPL) for all handgun purchases, including private sales. This involves a background check through the Michigan State Police. Long gun private sales do not require a background check or registration. All handguns must be registered with local law enforcement.
For private handgun sales, the buyer must obtain a License to Purchase from their local law enforcement agency (involves a background check). After the sale, the buyer must present the pistol for safety inspection at the police department within 10 days. Michigan State Police maintains a handgun registry.
Michigan has no assault weapons ban and no magazine capacity restrictions. NFA items are legal with proper federal registration. The state has a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) program administered by county clerks. Michigan has a castle doctrine but a duty-to-retreat in public spaces.
Yes
Private sale BG check
None
Waiting period
Yes
Registration required
Yes
Permit to purchase
Michigan Firearm Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know about firearm transfers in Michigan:
Important: Background Check Required
Michigan requires background checks for private firearm sales. All transfers must be conducted through a licensed dealer. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in criminal penalties. Even with a background check, it is illegal to sell to a known prohibited person.
Seller Requirements
- FFL Transfer: Michigan requires private sales to go through a licensed dealer for a background check
- Both Parties Present: Both buyer and seller must appear at the FFL with valid identification
- Bill of Sale: Complete a bill of sale documenting the firearm and transaction details
- No Prohibited Buyers: Do not sell to anyone you know or suspect is prohibited from possessing firearms
Buyer Requirements
- Michigan Residency: Must be a current Michigan resident with valid state ID
- Purchase Permit: Yes (License to Purchase for handguns, or CPL) — obtain before initiating the purchase
- Background Check: Must pass a background check processed through the FFL
- Not Prohibited: Must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law
- Retain Bill of Sale: Keep your copy as proof of legal purchase and ownership
How to Fill Out a Michigan Firearm Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Michigan firearm bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Michigan and federal requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, current Michigan mailing address, date of birth, and government-issued ID number (driver's license or state ID). This information is critical for establishing a clear chain of custody for the firearm.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, current Michigan address, date of birth, and ID number. Verify the buyer's ID is valid and current. Confirm the buyer is a Michigan resident — selling to an out-of-state resident in a private sale is a federal crime.
Describe the Firearm
Record the firearm's make (manufacturer), model, serial number, caliber or gauge, type (handgun, rifle, shotgun), barrel length, and finish/color. The serial number is the most important identifier — verify it matches the physical firearm exactly.
State the Sale Price
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method. If the firearm is a gift, write "$0 — Gift." If a trade, describe the items exchanged.
Include Eligibility Statement
The buyer should sign a statement affirming they are legally eligible to purchase and possess firearms under both federal and Michigan law, that they are not a prohibited person, and that they are a resident of Michigan.
Sign, Date, and Keep Copies
Both parties must sign and date the bill of sale. Print at least two copies — one for each party. Keep your copy indefinitely as there is no statute of limitations on ATF firearm traces. Remember that the transfer must also be processed through an FFL with a background check.
Michigan Firearm Transfer Process
Michigan requires private firearm transfers to include a background check. Here's the step-by-step process:
Verify Both Parties' Eligibility
Check IDs to confirm both parties are Michigan residents and of legal age. The seller should have no reason to believe the buyer is a prohibited person.
Visit a Licensed Dealer (FFL)
Both parties must appear at an FFL. The dealer will process the background check as required by Michigan law.
Complete Background Check
The FFL will run a background check. If approved, the transfer can proceed.
Complete and Sign the Bill of Sale
Fill in all fields including the serial number, both parties' information, and the sale price. Both parties sign and date.
Exchange Payment and Firearm
Complete the payment and transfer the firearm. Each party keeps their signed copy of the bill of sale.
Store Your Records Securely
Keep your copy of the bill of sale in a safe place indefinitely. This is your proof of legal transfer if the firearm is ever traced.
Michigan Firearm Transfer Fees & Costs
Here are the typical costs associated with a private firearm transfer in Michigan:
| Fee / Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Background Check Fee | Varies ($10-$40 typically) |
| FFL Transfer Fee | $10-$75 (set by dealer) |
| Registration Fee | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Carry Permit | Optional — available for reciprocity |
Sample Michigan Firearm Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Michigan-specific firearm bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by Michigan and federal law.
STATE OF MICHIGAN
FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Private Party Firearm Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Michigan Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Michigan Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
FIREARM INFORMATION
Make: [Manufacturer] Model: [Model]
Serial #: [Serial Number]
Caliber: [Cal/Gauge] Type: [Handgun/Rifle/Shotgun]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Michigan Firearm Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Michigan firearm bills of sale, private transfers, and state requirements.
Official Michigan Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify Michigan firearm transfer requirements and access government information.
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