Is a West Virginia Resident Permit Valid in Michigan?

Why

• Michigan recognizes out-of-state permits only when the holder is a resident of the issuing state.

MSP: 'If you are a resident of another state who is licensed by that state to carry a concealed pistol, Michigan will recognize your permit,' subject to any license restrictions and Michigan carry law. Statutory basis MCL 750.231a(1)(a): the license must be 'issued by his or her state of residence' — a non-resident permit (e.g. a Utah non-resident permit held by a Florida resident) is NOT valid.

Carry rules in Michigan

Your West Virginia habits may not match Michigan's law. Check these three areas before you carry there.

• Michigan imposes a duty to inform: you must tell an officer you are carrying. MCL 28.425f(3): a licensee carrying a concealed pistol who is stopped by a peace officer must immediately disclose that they are carrying a pistol concealed on their person or in the vehicle; violations are civil infractions with fines and license suspension/revocation.
• Michigan sets no state magazine-capacity limit for handguns.
• Michigan is not a permitless-carry state: concealed carry there requires a permit Michigan recognizes.
• A CPL or a recognized out-of-state resident license allows a loaded concealed pistol in a vehicle; without one, pistols must be transported unloaded in a closed case designed for firearms in the trunk (MCL 750.231a(1)(d)).

Off-limits places in Michigan

• Schools and school property, except a parent/guardian in a vehicle while dropping off or picking up (MCL 28.425o)
• Public or private day care centers and child caring agencies
• Sports arenas, stadiums and entertainment facilities seating 2,500+
• Bars (taverns whose primary income is on-premises alcohol sales)
• Places of worship, unless the presiding official allows
• Hospitals, casinos, and college/university dormitories or classrooms

Frequently asked questions

Is a West Virginia resident permit valid in Michigan?

The short answer is yes. Michigan recognizes West Virginia resident permits, which makes your Concealed Handgun License (CHL) valid authority to carry concealed there.

Do I have to tell police in Michigan that I am carrying?

Michigan imposes a duty to inform: you must tell an officer you are carrying. MCL 28.425f(3): a licensee carrying a concealed pistol who is stopped by a peace officer must immediately disclose that they are carrying a pistol concealed on their person or in the vehicle; violations are civil infractions with fines and license suspension/revocation.

Does Michigan limit magazine capacity?

Michigan sets no state magazine-capacity limit for handguns.

Where does Michigan publish its official reciprocity list?

Michigan publishes its recognition policy on an official state page, linked in the sources on this page. That page is the authority — check it shortly before travel, because recognition lists change without much notice.