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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Carpenter in Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
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 baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $58,310 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $60,510 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $60,390 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $72,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $114,570 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $60,090 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $58,570 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Carpenter in Michigan?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, 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. License status indicator: Active. 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.