Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Technology
Software Developer Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for software developer in Michigan, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Software Developer in Michigan
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
To receive a Horse Racing Occupational License in the State of Michigan, an applicant must be familiar with Michigan laws and regulations governing pari-mutuel horse racing in the state, access and complete the license application, sign and either hand deliver or mail the application the to Michigan Gaming Control Board and remit the appropriate fee.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$107,820 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Michigan eligibility requirements for Software Developer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Felony convictions prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.; To receive a Horse Racing Occupational License in the State of Michigan, an applicant must be familiar with Michigan laws and regulations...).
- 6. Submit the application to Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development 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 $107,820, Software Developers in Michigan earn 19% below the national median of $133,080. Michigan ranks #37 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
$107,820Hourly estimate
$51.8419% below national median
Difference: -$25,260
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSoftware Developer Salary Ranking
#37 of 50 statesfor Software Developer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $170,910 |
| #2 | Washington | $166,910 |
| #3 | New York | $161,260 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $150,520 |
| #5 | Maryland | $137,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Software Developer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $107,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $107,690 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $103,570 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $103,360 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | 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 Agriculture and Rural Development
P.O. Box 30017, Lansing, MI, 48909-8246
Phone: 8002923939
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | $117,330 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $104,540 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Database Architects | $120,810 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| IT Project Manager | $102,300 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Software Developer 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 Software Developers in Michigan?
Michigan lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Software Developers.
What education do you need to become a Software Developer in Michigan?
The board typically expects Degree required for Software Developer licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Software Developer salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Software Developers in Michigan is $107,820. Salaries range from $74,200 (10th percentile) to $161,850 (90th percentile).
How does the Software Developer salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Software Developers in Michigan earn 19% below the national median of $133,080, with a state median of $107,820.
How many Software Developers work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 41,490 Software Developers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Software Developer 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 Software Developers in Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Review agency details at http://www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125-1569-161495--,00.html.
How often do you renew a Software Developer license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.