Licensing Information
When is a license required?
In Michigan, anyone who contracts with a property owner to perform residential construction or remodeling projects valued at $600 or more, including materials and labor, is required to be licensed as either a Residential Builder or a Maintenance & Alteration Contractor. Both licenses mandate the completion of a 60-hour prelicensure course before applying to take the state licensing exam. Information about both licenses can be found on the Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website and is governed by the Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC).
What's the difference between a Residential Builder license and a Residential Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license?
A Residential Builder is licensed to construct a new home from the ground up and perform various types of repairs. While they can contract for the entire project, they must subcontract specialized work such as plumbing, electrical, and mechanical (HVAC) services.
In contrast, a Maintenance & Alteration (M&A) Contractor is licensed to perform only specific trades and services and may accept contracts solely for the services they are licensed for, regardless of whether the project involves new construction or remodeling.
Residential Maintenance & Alteration Contractor Trades:
The trades, or crafts for which a maintenance & alteration contractor is qualified to practice are listed on the license:
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carpentry
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concrete
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excavation
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insulation work
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masonry
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siding
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roofing
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screens and storm sash
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gutters
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tile & marble
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house wrecking
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swimming pools
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basement waterproofing
How do I get a license?
Receiving your Michigan Builders License can be done in three easy steps.
Step 1
Complete a state approved 60 hour prelicensure course.
Step 2
Submit your application and fee along with proof of course completion. You can find the application here. Once approval is receved by LARA, complete step 3.
Step 3
Schedule and complete the exam. Exams are administered by PSI at five locations across Michigan, available six days a week. Now available in Spanish!
Next Steps After Licensure
Useful links, requirements and applications for Industry Professionals
Continuing Competency Requirements
Learn more about the education needed to maintain your Michigan Residential Builders License. LEARN MORE
3-Hour Continuing Education
All licensed builders are required to complete 1 hour of code updates, 1 hour of law, and 1 hour of safety every three years. Renewal cycles end May 31st. To verify your license's expiration year, visit the ACA site and look yourself up, or login to your account. Contact the HBA or visit the event calendar to see if classes are scheduled.
Can't find an in-person class? Online courses can be found at licensetobuild.com
Builders License Renewal
To apply for or renew a license, you must have an online account with the Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC). Please note licenses can't be renewed more than 90 days prior to the license expiration date (March 1st).
Important: If you need to update your address, please do so in your account before renewing.
To renew your license:
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Enter your login information
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Click “My Records” at the top of the screen
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Select “Renew Application” next to your license
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Review your information and click “Continue Application” to add it to your cart
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Click “Checkout” and follow the prompts to complete payment
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You’ll receive a confirmation email once your renewal is complete
If you experience any issues, LARA can assist:
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Phone: 517-241-9316