How to Transfer Your Cosmetologist License from Ohio to Michigan

Side-by-side comparison of requirements, costs, and reciprocity. Updated 2026.

Quick Comparison

Requirement	Ohio (OH)	Michigan (MI)
Total Cost	$90	$245–$265
Training Hours	1,500 hrs	1 hrs
Exam Required	Yes	Yes
Renewal Period	2 years (expires January 31 of odd-numbered years)	2 years
Reciprocity	Endorsement (out-of-state license required; board certification sent directly from issuing state board)	By endorsement

Can You Transfer Your Cosmetologist License?

Michigan has limited or no reciprocity

Michigan offers reciprocity for applicants who hold an active license in good standing from a state with substantially equivalent requirements. Applicants must hold or have held in good standing a cosmetologist license in another state for at least 1 of the 3 years immediately preceding the application date.

Additional requirements: If license has lapsed less than 3 years, can apply for relicensure ($83 fee) without retaking exams if licensure was maintained elsewhere.

What You'll Need to Do in Michigan

These are the standard licensing steps in Michigan. As a licensed cosmetologist from Ohio, you may already satisfy some of these requirements.

1
Be at least 17 years old with a valid SSN and at least a 9th grade education
2
Complete 1,500 hours of coursework at a LARA-approved cosmetology school (or 2-year/1,920-hour apprenticeship)
3
Submit license application and $63–$83 fee to LARA
4
Schedule and pass the written examination ($91) through PSI Services
5
Schedule and pass the practical examination ($91, approximately 3 hours) through PSI Services
6
Bring your own supplies and mannequin head to the practical exam
7
Receive your cosmetology license from LARA

Cost Comparison

Ohio Fees

Application Fee$40 (Written & Practical combined application fee)
Exam Fee$Included in application fee
License Fee$50
Education Cost$8,000–$22,000
Total$90

Michigan Fees

Application Fee$63–$83
Exam Fee$182
License Fee$Included in the $63.00 application fee (described as 'Application Fee + 2 year license fee')
Education Cost$8,000–$22,000
Total$245–$265

Estimated Timeline

Timeline varies based on your credentials, reciprocity eligibility, and Michigan's current processing times. Contact the state licensing board for current estimates.

Explore More

Ohio Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Michigan Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from Ohio to Michigan?▾

Michigan may accept out-of-state cosmetologist credentials. Michigan offers reciprocity for applicants who hold an active license in good standing from a state with substantially equivalent requirements. Applicants must hold or have held in good standing a cosmetologist license in another state for at least 1 of the 3 years immediately preceding the application date.

How much does it cost to transfer a cosmetologist license to Michigan?▾

Government fees for a cosmetologist license in Michigan total approximately $245–$265. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a cosmetologist license from Ohio to Michigan?▾

Processing times vary by state. Contact the Michigan licensing board for current timelines.

Do I need to retake the cosmetologist exam when moving to Michigan?▾

Michigan requires a cosmetologist exam. Out-of-state licensees may or may not be exempt — check with the Michigan licensing board for current reciprocity policies.

Moving to another state? Use our Transfer Tool to see what you need →

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements, fees, and reciprocity policies directly with the Ohio and Michigan licensing boards before making decisions. LicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

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