Physician Assistant / Michigan
2026 data Michigan board official source

Michigan Physician Assistant License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Practices medicine under physician supervision. Requires PANCE exam and masters degree.

What the Michigan data shows for Physician Assistants

Michigan sets the entry bar for physician assistants at 3,709 training hours and a passing score on PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam). A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Michigan's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree (MPAS or MMS)".

The initial price tag is $242, and renewal costs $218 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 100-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For physician assistants, the reciprocity picture is: PA Licensure Compact: adoption underway in many states.

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree (MPAS or MMS)
3,709 hours
Exam Requirement
PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$242
Renewal Fee
$218
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
100 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
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 Physician Assistant in Michigan?
Michigan requires 3709 education/training hours, passing an exam (PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)), and an initial fee of $242. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Physician Assistant in Michigan?
To become a licensed physician assistant in Michigan, you must meet the state's requirements including 3709 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Michigan licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physician Assistant license to Michigan from another state?
Physician Assistant licenses generally reciprocate as follows: PA Licensure Compact: adoption underway in many states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Michigan licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Michigan require a background check for Physician Assistant licensing?
Yes, Michigan requires a criminal background check as part of the physician assistant licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physician Assistant in Michigan?
Michigan ties continued physician assistant licensure to 100 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $218 renewal fee.

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