HVAC Contractor License Requirements in Michigan

Overview — hvac licensing in Michigan

Michigan requires a state-level hvac contractor license, issued by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Construction Codes. The license verifies competence and consumer protection, and is required to legally bid and perform hvac work in the state. Working without one when required is typically a misdemeanor and exposes the contractor to civil penalties — and the contract becomes unenforceable in court.

License classes available

Michigan offers 1 hvac license class — pick based on the largest project you plan to bid:

• Mechanical Contractor — HVAC. Required for HVAC contracting in MI. Covers residential and commercial.

Experience required

60 hours of pre-license education + 4 years of documented HVAC experience.

Exam — what you're tested on

Michigan requires a written examination administered by PSI Services on behalf of LARA. Topics covered:

• IMC + MI amendments
• Refrigeration theory
• Business law

Passing score: 75%.

Fees

• Application fee: $195
• Initial license fee: $0
• Renewal fee: $195 ( triennial)

Bond & insurance

Bond: Not required at the state level.

General liability insurance: Minimum $500,000.

Workers' compensation: Required for any MI employer.

Continuing education

Michigan requires 21 hours of continuing education every 3 years. CE must come from approved providers — verify a course is approved before paying. Required topics typically include:

• 3 hrs code
• 3 hrs laws
• 3 hrs business
• 12 hrs elective

Reciprocity with other states

Michigan does not have formal hvac reciprocity with other states. Out-of-state contractors must complete the Michigan process from scratch.

Local permits and requirements

Most MI cities require HVAC permits. Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor have their own building departments.

Common gotchas

Things that catch most applicants on their first license cycle in Michigan:

• 60 hours of pre-license education before exam — many skip and have to backfill.
• Triennial renewal cycle — 21 hours of CE accumulates.
• EPA Section 608 separately required.
• MI has no HVAC reciprocity.

Frequently asked questions

What's the 60-hour pre-licensing education for Michigan HVAC?

60 classroom hours from a LARA-approved provider before exam eligibility. Topics: 6 hrs business management, 6 hrs estimating, 6 hrs contracts, 6 hrs marketing, 36 hrs elective construction. $400–$1,000 from approved schools.

How long does Michigan HVAC licensing take?

Pre-licensing course: 4–8 weeks. Application: 30–60 days. Exam: 2–6 weeks. Total: 4–6 months from start.

Why does Michigan have no HVAC reciprocity?

MI requires the 60-hour pre-license course for all applicants regardless of out-of-state experience. Out-of-state HVAC pros must complete the course and pass the MI exam.

What's CE compliance look like for Michigan HVAC?

21 hours every 3 years. 9 hours mandatory (3 each: code, law, business). 12 hours elective. Track via LARA's online CE portal.

Do Michigan HVAC contractors need EPA Section 608?

Yes — federal requirement nationwide. Separate from MI state licensing.