Cosmetologist / Michigan
2026 data Michigan board official source

Michigan Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the Michigan data shows for Cosmetologists

Michigan sets the entry bar for cosmetologists at 1,284 training hours and a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 16 or older. The credential is administered under Michigan's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

The initial price tag is $25, and renewal costs $25 every 3 years. Applications usually take around 2 weeks to process once complete. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in Michigan, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

For cosmetologists, the reciprocity picture is: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,284 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$106
Renewal Fee
$56
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$25
Renewal Fee
Every 3 years
$25
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 3-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Cosmetologist All Michigan licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Michigan licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in Michigan? ▼
In Michigan, the license path calls for 1284 education/training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, and a $106 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Michigan? ▼
Certification as a cosmetologist in Michigan means clearing the state's checklist: 1284 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Michigan licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Michigan from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for cosmetologists: Varies by state — check with state board. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Michigan licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Michigan require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Michigan does require a background check before issuing a cosmetologist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in Michigan? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Michigan is $25. The renewal fee is $25 every 3 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in Michigan? ▼
In Michigan, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 2 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.