Last Updated: April 25, 2017

Before you can begin working as a cosmetologist, barber, or other beauty professional in Michigan, you have to meet the education and testing requirements of this state. Going through this process ensures that you have the skills and knowledge needed to provide excellent service to the people of Michigan. This process begins with choosing a Michigan training program that meets the minimum training requirements listed below. You must successfully pass this program. These programs are regulated by the Michigan Cosmetology Board.

Then you must take the state's cosmetology board exams, which are administered by PSI. These exams can be taken in the English language only, though a word-to-word language dictionary may be used on the first attempt. You may be allowed to use a translator on the second attempt.

Upon earning passing scores on your written and practical exams, you will receive your Michigan cosmetology license in the mail, as the Cosmetology Board does not provide licenses in person. You're now able to work in the state of Michigan. Keep in mind, even though Michigan may not require continuing education to renew most licenses, you may wish to consider taking cosmetology continuing education hours in Michigan annually to stay current on new techniques in your specialty. For specific questions, please contact the Michigan Cosmetology Board directly for more information.

2017 Michigan Board of Cosmetology License Requirements

Michigan Cosmetology License Renewal

After you get your cosmetology license, it is valid until the following August. After that, cosmetology licenses in Michigan must be renewed every two years in by the end of August. No continuing education hours are required to renew your license in Michigan, but cosmetology CEUs are always recommended to stay current in the industry. The cost to renew is $48.

Cosmetology License Reciprocity (Transfer) in Michigan

Michigan grants cosmetology license reciprocity or transfer if the training and testing requirements in your home state are substantially equal to Michigan's. If they are not similar or greater, you may be required to take additional training hours or to take the Michigan written and practical board exams. Work experience can help you make up the difference if your home state’s training requirements are less than those of Michigan. In Michigan, 6 months of work experience is worth 100 hours of training. The cost to transfer your cosmetology license to MI is $39.

MI State Board of Cosmetology Contact Information

Michigan Bureau of Commercial Services - Board of Cosmetology

PO Box 30670

Lansing, MI 48909

Phone Number: 517-241-9288

Fax Number: 517-373-1044

The Michigan State Board of Cosmetology can help you answer additional questions about obtaining a Michigan state cosmetology license.