2026 data Michigan board official source

Michigan Real Estate Agent / Salesperson License Requirements

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

Assists clients in buying, selling, and renting properties.

What the Michigan data shows for Real Estate Agent / Salespersons

Becoming a licensed real estate agent / salesperson in Michigan means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 106 training hours, a passing score on State Real Estate Salesperson Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Michigan regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Pre-License Coursework".

Upfront cost is $88, with renewal running $88 on a 3-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 18 hours of continuing education are due every 3-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, real estate agent / salespersons should know: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state.

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Pre-License Coursework
106 hours
Exam Requirement
State Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$158
Renewal Fee
$132
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
12 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$88
Renewal Fee
Every 3 years
$88
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 3-year renewal cycle
18 hrs
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 Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in Michigan?
Michigan requires 106 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Real Estate Salesperson Exam), and an initial fee of $158. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in Michigan?
Certification as a real estate agent / salesperson in Michigan means clearing the state's checklist: 106 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Michigan licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license to Michigan from another state?
Reciprocity for real estate agent / salespersons nationally works like this: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Michigan. Verify the specifics with the Michigan licensing board.
Does Michigan require a background check for Real Estate Agent / Salesperson licensing?
Yes, Michigan requires a criminal background check as part of the real estate agent / salesperson licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in Michigan?
To stay licensed as a real estate agent / salesperson in Michigan, plan on 12 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $132.
How much does it cost to get a Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license in Michigan?
The initial licensing fee in Michigan is $88. The renewal fee is $88 every 3 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license processing take in Michigan?
In Michigan, license processing for real estate agent / salespersons typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

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