Top CPL Application Guide for Southwest Michigan

Top CPL Application Guide for Southwest Michigan

Key Takeaways:

• Step-by-step breakdown of the CPL application process

• County-specific instructions for Cass, Berrien, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Allegan, Barry, and St. Joseph counties

• What to bring, how much it costs, and where to go

Want to Carry Legally in Michigan? Here’s What You Need to Know

In Michigan, obtaining a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) is a legal requirement to carry a concealed firearm. The process is straightforward, but it can feel confusing if it’s your first time.

This guide walks you through exactly what to do, what to bring, and what to expect—especially if you live in Southwest Michigan.

You’ll also find county-specific information so you can be fully prepared before heading to your local Clerk’s Office.

Step-by-Step: How to Submit Your CPL Application in Southwest Michigan

While every county follows the same overall state procedure, a few things—like fingerprint scheduling and payment methods—may vary slightly.

1. Gather Your Documents

Before you do anything else, make sure you have:

• A valid Michigan photo ID (driver’s license or state-issued ID)

• A CPL training certificate issued within the last 5 years (must meet state requirements)

2. Go to the County Clerk’s Office

Most counties will have printed applications ready for you. Some also offer them online if you'd like to fill it out ahead of time.

🔒 Do NOT sign the application until you are in front of the Clerk. They must witness your signature.

3. Pay the Required Fees

The total cost to apply is:

• $100 application fee (paid at the Clerk’s office)

• $15 fingerprinting fee

💡 Note: Some counties require the fingerprinting fee to be paid separately at the fingerprinting location.

4. Get Your Fingerprints Taken

This varies by location:

• Some counties provide fingerprinting at the same building as the Clerk’s office

• Others require you to schedule with a third-party provider or the county jail

5. Wait for Approval

Once your application and fingerprints are submitted:

• The County Clerk sends everything to the Michigan State Police

• A background check is performed

• If approved, your CPL will be mailed to your home address

🕒 Processing time: Ranges from 7 to 45 days depending on the county

County-Specific CPL Application Notes

Cass County

• Fingerprinting is scheduled separately through the Sheriff’s Office

• No appointment needed to submit application—walk-ins are accepted during business hours

• 🕒 Processing Time: Approx. 2–4 weeks

Berrien County

• After submitting your application, you must schedule fingerprinting through L1 Identity Solutions or another authorized location

• Plan for a separate trip for fingerprinting

• 📌 Tip: Check the county website for fingerprint provider options

Van Buren County

• Apply in person at the courthouse in Paw Paw

• Fingerprints typically taken at the county jail, often by appointment only

• 📅 Expect 3–5 weeks for processing

Kalamazoo County

• Often allows same-day application and fingerprinting

• Strong digital infrastructure makes the process user-friendly

• 💡 Efficient county if you're looking for a quick turnaround

Allegan County

• Fingerprinting is handled by the Sheriff’s Department

• Application accepted at the Clerk’s office—bring exact change or a check

• 📝 The staff is helpful and willing to answer application questions in advance

Barry County

• Usually a two-part process: one visit for application, one for fingerprinting

• Located in downtown Hastings

• 📬 CPL typically arrives within 3–6 weeks

St. Joseph County

• Applications are accepted in person at the Centreville office

• Fingerprinting appointments required and handled separately

• ☎️ Best practice: schedule your application and fingerprint appointments in advance

Final Thoughts: Ready to Get Started?

The CPL application process is designed to be thorough yet accessible. Whether you’re applying in Kalamazoo or Cass County, the key steps remain the same: bring the right documents, follow the process, and be patient during the background check.

If you’ve already completed your training and have your certificate in hand, you’re well on your way. Take the next step and head to your local Clerk’s Office. Once approved, you’ll receive your CPL by mail and be legally allowed to carry in the state of Michigan.

🏛️ County Clerk Office Addresses

Here’s a quick-reference list of Clerk’s Office locations for all seven counties:

Cass County Clerk
📍 120 N Broadway St, Cassopolis, MI 49031
📞 (269) 445-4464

Berrien County Clerk
📍 811 Port St, St. Joseph, MI 49085
📞 (269) 983-7111

Van Buren County Clerk
📍 212 E Paw Paw St #101, Paw Paw, MI 49079
📞 (269) 657-8218

Kalamazoo County Clerk
📍 227 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
📞 (269) 383-8840

Allegan County Clerk
📍 113 Chestnut St, Allegan, MI 49010
📞 (269) 673-0450

Barry County Clerk
📍 220 W State St, Hastings, MI 49058
📞 (269) 945-1285

St. Joseph County Clerk
📍 125 W Main St, Centreville, MI 49032
📞 (269) 467-5500