Michigan Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Michigan requires statewide licensing for residential builders (general contractors), electricians, plumbers, and HVAC/mechanical contractors through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC). Roofing contractors must hold a Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license. Michigan does not have reciprocity agreements with any other state for contractor trades.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredMichigan Licensing Overview
Michigan requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 3 separate agencies: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes (LARA/BCC), Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Plumbing Division (LARA/BCC), Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Division (LARA/BCC). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $140 to $325, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
Michigan Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $195 | $117 | — | — | $312 |
| Electrician | $40 | $100 | — | — | $140 |
| Plumber | $40 | $100 | — | — | $140 |
| HVAC Technician | $300 | $25 | — | — | $325 |
| Roofing Contractor | $185 | $117 | — | — | $302 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About Michigan Contractor Licensing
- No state-mandated GL minimum for residential builders, but $500,000 GL coverage is industry standard. Workers comp required if you have employees.
- License covers residential construction, alteration, repair, and remodeling of 1- and 2-family dwellings over $600
- Renewal deadline: May 31, 2026 for current cycle
- Schedule PSI exam at www.psiexams.com or call (800) 733-9267
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Michigan require a contractor license?
Yes, Michigan requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in Michigan?
Initial licensing costs range from $140 to $325 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Michigan have license reciprocity with other states?
Michigan does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Michigan?
No state-mandated GL minimum for residential builders, but $500,000 GL coverage is industry standard. Workers comp required if you have employees.
Official Michigan Licensing Resources
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes (LARA/BCC) — for general contractor, electrician, roofing contractor
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Plumbing Division (LARA/BCC) — for plumber
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Division (LARA/BCC) — for hvac technician