In Michigan, there is no single "general contractor" license. Instead, the state requires specific licensing for residential construction through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This guide will walk you through the requirements and steps to obtain a Michigan Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license, the two primary classifications for residential construction work.
Who Needs a Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor License in Michigan?
A state-issued license is required in Michigan for any individual or business performing residential building or maintenance and alteration contracting. The specific license you need depends on the scope of work you intend to perform, as defined by the Michigan Occupational Code.
Residential Builder License Scope
A Residential Builder is an individual or company that contracts with a property owner to construct, repair, alter, or improve a residential or combination residential and commercial structure. This license covers a broad range of building activities and typically includes the work performed by various Maintenance & Alteration trades.
Maintenance & Alteration Contractor License Scope
A Maintenance & Alteration (M&A) Contractor license is for individuals or businesses performing specific trades on a residential structure. This license is broken down into specific craft categories, and a contractor can be licensed in one or more of these trades. The scope is limited to the specific trades listed on the license, such as carpentry, roofing, or siding.
Michigan Contractor License Requirements at a Glance
To obtain a Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license in Michigan, you must meet several key requirements. The process centers on prelicensure education rather than a specific number of years of work experience. All applicants must complete a 60-hour prelicensure education course, pass a two-part state examination, and submit a complete application with the appropriate fees to LARA.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Michigan Contractor License
Follow these steps to successfully navigate the licensing process in Michigan.
1. Complete Prelicensure Education
You must complete a 60-hour prelicensure education course from a state-approved provider before you can apply for your license. The application form states, "You must submit the certificate of completion for the 60-hour Prelicensure Course." The curriculum covers essential topics such as business management, estimating, contracts, and relevant laws and regulations.
2. Apply for the Exam
Once you have your certificate of completion from the prelicensure course, you can apply to take the licensing examination. The application for the exam is submitted directly to the state or its authorized testing service. The specific scheduling process and locations will be provided once your exam application is approved.
3. Pass the Licensing Exam
All applicants must pass the Michigan Residential Builder and Maintenance & Alteration Contractor exam. This is a two-part test covering both legal/business topics and practical trade knowledge.
Exam Content and Format
The examination is divided into two distinct portions:
- Law and Rules: This section tests your knowledge of state laws, regulations, and business practices relevant to the construction industry in Michigan.
- Practice or Trades: This section covers the practical and technical knowledge required for the specific license you are seeking, whether it's the comprehensive Residential Builder exam or a specific M&A trade.
Exam Fees and Scheduling
The exam fees are set by state statute (MCL 338.2239) and must be paid before you can schedule your test.
- Complete Builder or M&A Contractor Examination: $50.00
- Law and Rules Portion Only: $30.00
- Practice or Trades Portion Only: $30.00
4. Submit Your License Application
After successfully passing the examination, you can submit your formal application for licensure to LARA. Ensure you have all required documentation ready to avoid delays.
Required Application Forms and Supporting Documents
Your application package must include:
- The completed license application form.
- Your certificate of completion for the 60-hour prelicensure course.
- Proof of passing the state examination.
- The required application and license fees.
Application Fees
You must submit the appropriate fees with your application.
- Application Processing Fee: $15.00
- Initial Individual Residential Builder License Fee: $195.00
- Initial Individual Maintenance & Alteration Contractor License Fee: $195.00
5. Receive Your License
Once LARA has processed and approved your complete application, you will be issued your Michigan Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license. Current application processing and exam scheduling timelines can vary; confirm the latest estimates with LARA.
Michigan Contractor License Fees: What to Expect
Applicants should budget for several fees throughout the licensing process, all of which are set by the state.
Application and Examination Fees
- Application Processing Fee: $15.00
- Complete Builder or M&A Examination: $50.00
- Law and Rules Portion: $30.00
- Practice or Trades Portion: $30.00
- Salesperson Examination: $30.00
- Examination Review: $20.00
Initial License Fees
- Individual Residential Builder License: $195.00
- Individual Maintenance & Alteration Contractor License: $195.00
- Individual Residential Builder/M&A Contractor - Veteran: Fee Waived
Relicensure Fees
- Individual Residential Builder Relicensure: $185.00
- Individual Maintenance & Alteration Contractor Relicensure: $185.00
Michigan Contractor License Renewal and Continuing Education
Maintaining your license requires timely renewal and adherence to any continuing education requirements.
Renewal Cycle and Deadlines
Michigan contractor licenses operate on a three-year renewal cycle. The state statute, MCL 338.2239, references a "3-year license cycle." It is your responsibility to renew your license before it expires to continue operating legally.
Continuing Education Requirements
No state-level continuing education (CE) requirement was identified in the sources reviewed for Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license renewal. However, it is always a good practice to stay current with building codes and industry standards.
Does Michigan Have Reciprocity Agreements for Contractors?
Michigan's official sources do not specify any formal reciprocity or endorsement agreements with other states for its Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor licenses. Out-of-state contractors must meet all of Michigan's licensing requirements, including the prelicensure education and examination, to be licensed in the state.
Michigan Contractor Bonding and Insurance Requirements
The state of Michigan does not specify a statewide requirement for contractor license bonds or general liability insurance for Residential Builder or M&A Contractor licensees in the sources reviewed.