Electrician License Requirements in Michigan
| Licensing Authority | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes (LARA/BCC) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Electrician / Electrical Contractor |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 8,000 hours over at least 4 years of electrical wiring experience under direct supervision of a Michigan-licensed journey or master electrician. Must be enrolled in an approved Related Technical Instruction (RTI) program. Master: 12,000 hours over at least 6 years, including 4,000 hours and 2 years as a licensed journeyman. |
| Education Substitute | Related Technical Instruction (RTI) program enrollment required during apprenticeship |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Electrician Exam + Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 0 hours Code update course required within 12 months of Michigan adopting a new National Electrical Code edition |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Master Electrician application | $50 |
| Electrical Contractor application | $300 |
| Est. Initial Total | $490 |
Renewal: $50 every 1 year (December 31 deadline)
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Electrician Exam
Master Electrician Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Apprentice
Entry level — must work under direct supervision of licensed journey or master electrician
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
8,000 hours over minimum 4 years under licensed journey/master electrician; must be at least 20 years old
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
12,000 hours over minimum 6 years; must hold journeyman license for 2+ years with 4,000 hours as journeyman; must be at least 22 years old
Exam: Required
Electrical Contractor
Must employ a full-time licensed master electrician; no separate exam required
Exam: Not required
Notes
- Michigan adopted the 2023 NEC on March 12, 2024
- Electrical Contractor license does not require a separate exam but requires employing a full-time master electrician
- Out-of-state applicants must submit a copy of their current license and that jurisdiction's licensing requirements for review
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a electrician license in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan requires a statewide electrician license through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes.
How much does a electrician license cost in Michigan?
The estimated initial cost is $140, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: LARA/BCC