Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor 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 General Contractor in Michigan
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Experience: Work experience required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 4
An applicant for an Electrical Contractor license must hold a Master Electrician License or have at least 1 master electrician residing in the State of Michigan who is in his or her full-time employ.
- 5
Additionally, the applicant must take and pass the Electrical/Fire Alarm/Sign Contractor examination along with the $300.00 fee payable to PSI.
Exam and processing details
- pass the Electrical/Fire Alarm/Sign Contractor examination along with the $300
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
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
$103,610 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Michigan eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required pass the Electrical/Fire Alarm/Sign Contractor examination along with the $300.
- 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 Construction Codes and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Michigan
With a median salary of $103,610, General Contractors in Michigan earn 3% below the national median of $106,980. Michigan ranks #28 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
$103,610Hourly estimate
$49.813% below national median
Difference: -$3,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#28 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $103,610 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $96,440 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $99,600 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $113,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required 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 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 |
| Carpenter | $61,410 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $69,890 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor 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 General Contractors in Michigan?
Michigan lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for General Contractors.
What is the typical General Contractor salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in Michigan is $103,610. Salaries range from $59,310 (10th percentile) to $163,790 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
General Contractors in Michigan earn 3% below the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $103,610.
How many General Contractors work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 7,910 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Michigan from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for General Contractors 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 General Contractor license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.