Cosmetologist
Michigan
Cosmetologist License Requirements
Governing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) - Board of Cosmetology
Official website →1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years
Renewal Cycle
$245–$265
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedBe at least 17 years old with a valid SSN and at least a 9th grade education
Complete 1,500 hours of coursework at a LARA-approved cosmetology school (or 2-year/1,920-hour apprenticeship)
Submit license application and $63–$83 fee to LARA
Schedule and pass the written examination ($91) through PSI Services
Schedule and pass the practical examination ($91, approximately 3 hours) through PSI Services
Bring your own supplies and mannequin head to the practical exam
Receive your cosmetology license from LARA
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
At least a 9th grade education
Residency
No residency requirement; reciprocity available for out-of-state licensees
Background Check
Michigan requires a criminal background check as part of the cosmetology license application process. Applicants must have a valid Social Security Number.
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
1,920 hours required
2-year apprenticeship (minimum 1,920 hours) at a licensed cosmetology establishment as an alternative to 1,500 school hours.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedCosmetology services include hair care services (cutting, styling, coloring, perming, relaxing, shampooing), manicuring services, skin care services (facials, makeup application), electrology, and natural hair cultivation.
Examination
Written Exam
Michigan Cosmetology Written Examination
- Administered by
- PSI Services
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $91
Computer-based multiple-choice exam covering sanitation, hair treatments, chemical services, and state regulations.
Practical Exam
Michigan Cosmetology Practical Examination
- Administered by
- PSI Services
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $91
Hands-on demonstration of key cosmetology services. Candidates must bring their own supplies and mannequin head. The exam lasts approximately 3 hours.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Application fee range varies based on license type and processing | $63–$83 |
Exam Fee Written exam ($91) + practical exam ($91) | $182 |
License Fee The application fee covers the initial license issuance | Included in application fee |
Total Government Fees Application fee ($63–$83) + written exam ($91) + practical exam ($91) | $245–$265 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $8,000–$22,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Michigan requires 1,500 hours, and program costs vary by institution.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (expires August 31 biennially)
Renewal Cycle
2 years
Renewal Fee
$48
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedMichigan offers reciprocity for applicants who hold an active license in good standing from a state with substantially equivalent requirements. Applicants must hold or have held in good standing a cosmetologist license in another state for at least 1 of the 3 years immediately preceding the application date.
Additional Requirements: If license has lapsed less than 3 years, can apply for relicensure ($83 fee) without retaking exams if licensure was maintained elsewhere.
Related Licenses in Michigan
Esthetician
Separate LicenseSkin care, facials, and related services
Nail Technician
Separate LicenseManicures, pedicures, and nail services
Barber
Separate LicenseHair cutting, shaving, and barbering services
Special Notes
Michigan has one of the lowest education requirements in the nation (9th grade only), yet requires 1,500 training hours and a minimum age of 17. The state does not require continuing education for renewal, making maintenance straightforward. Michigan's combined exam fees ($182 total) are among the higher costs nationally, and candidates must supply their own equipment including a mannequin head for the practical exam.
Michigan only requires a 9th grade education, which is lower than most states that require 10th grade or a GED.
Michigan does not require continuing education for cosmetology license renewal.
The minimum age is 17, which is higher than many states that allow 16-year-olds.
A 2-year (1,920-hour) apprenticeship alternative is available.
Candidates must bring their own supplies and mannequin head to the practical exam.
Renewal notices are mailed approximately 60 days before the August 31 expiration date.
If license has lapsed less than 3 years, relicensure ($83) is possible without retaking exams.
Sources
Official LARA cosmetology page
Accessed 2026-02-24
1,500 school hours or 2-year apprenticeship
Accessed 2026-02-24
Confirms 1,500 hours / 1,920 apprenticeship hours
Accessed 2026-02-24
Application fee details
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Michigan
Michigan requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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