Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologist in Michigan
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree 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 Professional Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$35,720 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Michigan eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs~Bureau of Professional Licensing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Michigan
With a median salary of $35,720, Cosmetologists in Michigan earn 1% above the national median of $35,250. Michigan ranks #22 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
$35,720Hourly estimate
$17.171% above national median
Difference: +$470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#22 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | $52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | $49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | $49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | $48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $35,720 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $29,440 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $31,480 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $36,550 | Degree required | State 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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 Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172410199
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $29,390 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $46,620 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $54,510 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $34,920 | Specific course required | 2-18 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologists in Michigan?
Michigan lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Michigan?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Michigan is $35,720. Salaries range from $24,120 (10th percentile) to $70,250 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Michigan earn 1% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $35,720.
How many Cosmetologists work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 9,010 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologists in Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Professional Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_72600---,00.html.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.