Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Michigan, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in Michigan
Estimated timeline: 1 monthCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
A probationary instructor must have at least three years of fire service experience, be certified to the Fire Fighter 2 level, complete the MFFTC Instructor Orientation class and the MFFTC Educational Methodology OR Michigan Fire Instructor 1 course.
- 6
To proceed to a certified instructor, an applicant must additionally have at least five years of fire service experience, complete at least 12 hours of mentoring with a certified instructor 1, and be evaluated by a Bureau of Fire Services Region Coordinator.
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- certification, they must first become a probationary fire service instructor
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Fire Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$55,570 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Michigan eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs~Bureau of Fire Services and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Michigan
With a median salary of $55,570, Firefighters in Michigan earn 7% below the national median of $59,530. Michigan ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1 month.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,308Median annual salary
$55,570Hourly estimate
$26.727% below national median
Difference: -$3,960
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#25 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $55,570 | Specific course required | No exam required | 1 month |
| Ohio | $59,470 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $61,470 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $47,710 | 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
Official website verified
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Fire Services
3101 Technology Blvd., Suite H, Lansing, MI, 48910
Phone: 5172418847
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $65,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $74,420 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $38,120 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $153,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Michigan?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1 month, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Firefighters in Michigan?
Michigan lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Firefighters.
What education do you need to become a Firefighter in Michigan?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Firefighter licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Michigan is $55,570. Salaries range from $37,440 (10th percentile) to $78,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Michigan earn 7% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $55,570.
How many Firefighters work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 7,390 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter 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 Firefighters in Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Fire Services. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_42271---,00.html.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.