Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Trades
Carpenter Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for carpenter in Michigan, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Carpenter in Michigan
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Construction Codes
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,410 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Michigan eligibility requirements for Carpenter licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs~Bureau of Construction Codes and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Michigan
With a median salary of $61,410, Carpenters in Michigan earn 4% above the national median of $59,310. Michigan ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,308Median annual salary
$61,410Hourly estimate
$29.524% above national median
Difference: +$2,100
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCarpenter Salary Ranking
#13 of 50 statesfor Carpenter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | $85,970 |
| #2 | Illinois | $76,410 |
| #3 | California | $74,820 |
| #4 | Washington | $73,260 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $71,110 |
Nearby States Comparison
Carpenter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $61,410 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $58,310 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $60,510 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $60,390 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Wisconsin | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Construction Codes
P.O. Box 30255, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172419316
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $69,370 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,840 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $69,890 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Crane Operator | $77,110 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Carpenter in Michigan?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Carpenters in Michigan?
Michigan lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Carpenters.
What education do you need to become a Carpenter in Michigan?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Carpenter licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Carpenter salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Carpenters in Michigan is $61,410. Salaries range from $40,750 (10th percentile) to $80,250 (90th percentile).
How does the Carpenter salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Carpenters in Michigan earn 4% above the national median of $59,310, with a state median of $61,410.
How many Carpenters work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 21,550 Carpenters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Carpenter license to Michigan from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Carpenters in Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Construction Codes. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_10575---,00.html.
How often do you renew a Carpenter license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.