Michigan CPL classes in Lapeer, taught by instructors who carry for a living.
The USCCA Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals class, recognized by the State of Michigan for your CPL. Eight hours with three hours of range time, small groups, and coaching at your own pace. You leave with your certificate the same day.
- Counts for your Michigan CPL application
- No experience needed, we work with new gun owners every class
- Guns and ammunition available if you do not own one

Three steps to your CPL
Reserve your seat
Pick a class date below and put down the $21 deposit online. It takes a couple of minutes, and the $84 balance is due on the day of class.
Take the class
One full day at Knotted Root Tactical in Lapeer, eight hours of classroom work plus three hours on the range. You leave with your certificate the same day.
Apply at your county clerk
Bring your certificate to the county clerk, submit your application and fingerprints, and your license arrives in the mail.
Taught by people who train police officers

David Essad
CPL Instructor and USCCA Training Counselor
David is a USCCA Training Counselor and certified firearms instructor, a Defensive Shooting Fundamentals instructor, a certified Range Safety Officer, and an NRA Refuse to be a Victim instructor. He also teaches Emergency First Aid Fundamentals.
The Citizen Defense Training team is made up of current and former military and law enforcement personnel along with martial arts and security professionals. They have been training both civilians and law enforcement since 2003.
Classes near you
The next dates closest to your location, nearest first.
What the class is like
You will not be singled out
Small groups, frequent breaks, and one on one instruction. Questions are welcome, and nobody gets put on the spot in front of the room.
New gun owners are the specialty
Plenty of students arrive having never handled a pistol. We start with how a firearm works and how to check whether it is loaded, then build from there.
Certified the same day
Certificates are handed out at the end of class, so you can start your county clerk application right away.
What our students say
Extremely knowledgeable, professional, and would recommend anybody seeking education in self defense to sign up for Dave’s classes! Thanks again!
I took the CPL instructor course with Dave. The course was great, well presented, challenging but well balanced. I feel confident I understand what I need to do to be a good instructor going forward.
Absolutely amazing and super informative! I feel extremely confident in instructing my first class! Dave made the class enjoyable and interactive!
Questions students ask
Is this class approved for a Michigan CPL?
Yes. This is the USCCA Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals course, which the State of Michigan recognizes for the CPL. Your certificate is valid for your application at the county clerk.
What does the class cost?
Tuition is $105 per student. A $21 deposit reserves your seat online and the $84 balance is due on the day of class, cash or credit. The range charges $23.90 for range time and targets, paid directly to them.
Do I need my own gun?
No. A firearm and ammunition are available to use for the class for $35. If you do own a pistol, bring it along with your ammunition.
Do I need any experience?
No. Working with new gun owners is what this class is built around, and you will be coached at your own pace.
How long is the class?
Eight hours, including about three hours of live fire on the range. Coffee and water are provided, and there are frequent breaks.
What should I bring?
A good attitude, a pen, and a snack. Bring your pistol and ammunition if you have them. Everything else is provided or available at the range.
Ready to get your Michigan CPL?
Reserve your seat with a $21 deposit. Questions before you book? Call (248) 662-5744.
Find a Class Near You
Citizen Defense Training