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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 regionLicense 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- 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 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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,620 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $54,510 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,920 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist 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 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. 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.