Painting Contractor License Requirements in Michigan

Overview — painting licensing in Michigan

Michigan requires a state-level painting 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 painting 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 painting license class — pick based on the largest project you plan to bid:

• Maintenance and Alteration Contractor — Painting. Required for residential painting on 1–4 unit dwellings.

Experience required

60 hours of pre-license education from a Michigan-approved provider.

Exam — what you're tested on

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

• Michigan Residential Code
• Business management for contractors
• Construction law

Passing score: 70%.

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 painting reciprocity with other states. Out-of-state contractors must complete the Michigan process from scratch.

Local permits and requirements

Most MI cities don't require painting permits but Detroit requires city contractor registration. Lead paint requires EPA RRP + MI-specific lead rules.

Common gotchas

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

• Michigan is one of few states with state-level painting licensing.
• 60-hour pre-license education required before exam.
• Triennial renewal with 21-hour CE accumulation.
• Lead paint rules apply on substantial MI pre-1978 housing.

Frequently asked questions

Does Michigan really require a license to paint?

Yes — for residential painting on 1–4 unit dwellings, Michigan requires a Maintenance and Alteration Contractor license. One of few states with painting at the state level.

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

60 classroom hours from a LARA-approved provider before exam eligibility. Same as other Maintenance & Alteration licenses. Costs $400–$1,000.

How long does Michigan painting licensing take?

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

Does Michigan have painting reciprocity?

No — MI has no painting reciprocity with any state. Out-of-state painters must complete the 60-hour course and pass the MI exam.

What's the lead paint situation in Michigan?

Federal EPA RRP applies. Michigan also has additional Department of Health and Human Services lead rules. Detroit has substantial pre-1978 housing stock so RRP applies frequently.