How to become a real estate agent in Michigan
Michigan real estate agents are licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Professional Licensing – Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in Michigan, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a real estate agent in Michigan?
- At least 18 years old
- Good moral character (convictions reviewed case by case)
- Social Security number, or an SSN affidavit
- Non-residents file a Consent to Service of Process
Michigan real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Professional Licensing – Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | 40 hours of approved prelicensure education, including at least 4 hours of civil rights law and equal opportunity in housing. The certificate is valid for 36 months. |
| Exam | PSI administers the Real Estate Salesperson exam; LARA makes you eligible after you apply in MiPLUS and upload your 40-hour certificate. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. A licensed individual broker or broker company must sponsor you. After you pass the exam, you enter the employing broker's 10-digit license number in MiPLUS, and the license is issued once the broker approves. |
| License term | 3 years. |
| Continuing education | 18 CE hours per 3-year cycle; each year must include at least 2 hours on real estate laws, rules and court cases and 1 hour on fair housing. |
How much does it cost?
| Salesperson new application (application + 3-year license) | $88 |
|---|---|
| Salesperson renewal | $78 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a real estate agent in Michigan
- Complete 40 hours of approved prelicensure education
- Apply in MiPLUS, upload your course certificate and pay $88
- Use the Candidate ID that PSI emails you to schedule the exam
- Pass the Real Estate Salesperson exam (results are valid for one year)
- Enter your employing broker's license number in MiPLUS for approval
- Receive your license by email after the broker approves
Apply on the official Michigan site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in Michigan?
- Search the name or license number on the official Michigan real estate agent license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.