How to Get Your Real Estate License in Michigan (2026)
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Ready to start your real estate career in Michigan? Whether you want to help buyers find their dream home or build a business in commercial real estate, getting licensed is your first step. Here is exactly what you need to do, step by step.
Michigan requires 40 hours of pre-licensing education, and total government fees run approximately $227. The entire process typically takes 3 to 12 weeks from start to finish. For the complete requirements breakdown, see our Michigan real estate license requirements page.
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you invest time in coursework, confirm that you meet Michigan's basic eligibility requirements:
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Residency: Not required
- Background check: Required
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Sponsoring Broker: Required — Must affiliate with a licensed Michigan broker before license activation.
Licensing is overseen by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Step 2: Complete 40 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education
Michigan requires 40 hours of approved pre-licensing education before you can sit for the licensing exam. You can complete this entirely online through accredited providers, which allows you to study at your own pace.
Your coursework will cover:
- Real Estate Salesperson Pre-License Course (40 hrs — including minimum 4 hrs civil rights/fair housing)
- 40-hour pre-licensure education course including at least 4 hours of civil rights law and equal opportunity in housing
Complete your 40 required hours online
The CE Shop offers Michigan-approved pre-licensing courses you can take entirely online, at your own pace.
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Step 3: Pass the Michigan Real Estate Licensing Exam
After completing your education, you will need to pass the Michigan real estate licensing exam, administered by PSI Services LLC.
| Section | Questions | Time | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| National | 80 | min | 70% |
| State (Michigan) | 35 | min | 70% |
Results delivered on-screen immediately. 7 Michigan test centers: Grand Rapids, Southfield (2), Holt, Dearborn, Gaylord, Marquette. One source reports 100 questions — 115 is confirmed by PSI bulletin and multiple corroborating sources.
Step 4: Submit Your License Application
Once you pass the exam, submit your license application to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Here is what the process looks like:
Complete 40-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
Take a LARA-approved 40-hour Salesperson Pre-License Course including minimum 4 hours civil rights/fair housing.
Estimated time: 1–6 weeks
Find a Sponsoring Broker
Secure affiliation with a licensed Michigan real estate broker.
Estimated time: 1–4 weeks
Complete Fingerprinting
Visit an IdentoGO or approved Live Scan location for fingerprint-based background check. Cost: ~$50–$65.
Estimated time: 1–3 weeks
Submit Application via MiPLUS
Apply online at michigan.gov/MiPLUS. Pay $88 application fee. Upload proof of education.
Estimated time: 2–4 weeks processing
Schedule and Pass the PSI Exam
Register at test-takers.psiexams.com/mire. Pay $79 exam fee. Pass both National (56/80 = 70%) and State (24/35 = 70%) sections.
Estimated time: 1–2 weeks
License Issued
License issued by LARA after exam pass and background check clearance.
Estimated time: 1–2 weeks
Key Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $88 |
| Exam Fee (per attempt) | $79 |
| Fingerprinting / Background Check | $60 |
| Total Government Fees | $227 |
Step 5: Complete Post-License Requirements
Michigan requires newly licensed agents to complete additional education after receiving their license:
No special first-renewal rules or post-licensing education requirement found in official guide
Get ahead on post-license requirements
Complete your Michigan post-licensing education online. Start right after you get licensed so you don't fall behind.
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Step 6: Stay Licensed — Continuing Education
Once you are licensed, Michigan requires ongoing continuing education (CE) to keep your license active.
- 18 hours of CE every 3 years
- Renewal fee: $78
- CE deadline: Due on birthday
Stay compliant with online CE courses
The CE Shop offers Michigan-approved continuing education you can complete online before your next renewal deadline.
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Michigan Real Estate License: Quick Reference
| Pre-Licensing Hours | 40 hours |
| Total Government Fees | $227 |
| Exam Provider | PSI Services LLC |
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Estimated Timeline | 3–12 weeks |
| CE Requirement | 18 hours every 3 years |
| Renewal Fee | $78 |
| Licensing Authority | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) |
For the complete, detailed requirements, visit our Michigan real estate license requirements page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Michigan?▼
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Michigan?▼
Can I take Michigan pre-licensing courses online?▼
What happens if I fail the Michigan real estate exam?▼
Start Your Michigan Real Estate Education Today
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) before making decisions. Data last verified 2026-04-02.
Real Estate Agent Licensing — Quick Reference by State
Median salary, government licensing fees, and estimated timeline. Click any state for full details.
| State | Median Salary | License Fees | Timeline | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $62,420 | $499 | 3 mo | View → |
| Texas | $50,150 | $276.25 | 8 wk | View → |
| Florida | $50,140 | $180.5 | 5 wk | View → |
| New York | $97,440 | $80 | 4 wk | View → |
| Pennsylvania | $53,590 | $178 | 4 wk | View → |
| Illinois | $51,210 | $270 | 4 wk | View → |
| Ohio | $43,860 | $219 | 6 wk | View → |
| Georgia | $56,190 | $329.25 | 5 wk | View → |
| North Carolina | $47,840 | $190 | 4 wk | View → |
| Michigan | $55,600 | $227 | 3 wk | View → |
Salary: BLS OEWS May 2024. Fees & timelines: state licensing boards.
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