How to Get a Michigan Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about a career in real estate? To become a real estate agent in Michigan you must get your real estate license.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become licensed. You’ll learn everything from pre-licensing education to passing the exam and activating your license.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Michigan

Here is the step-by-step process to earn your real estate license in Michigan:

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before starting your real estate journey, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Have a Social Security Number.
• Be of good moral character.
• Ensure any criminal history aligns with state licensing regulations.

Step 2: Complete 40 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education

Michigan requires you to complete 40 hours of pre-licensing education from a state-approved real estate school. 

This includes at least 4 hours of civil rights law and equal opportunity in housing. These courses cover:

• Real estate law and regulations
• Civil rights law
• Property ownership and transfer
• Contracts and agreements
• Agency relationships and disclosures
• Real estate finance and mortgages
• Ethics and real estate professional conduct
• Michigan-specific real estate laws
• Fair Housing and anti-discrimination laws

If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Michigan students. 

Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.

Step 3: Apply for the Michigan Real Estate Exam

After completing the pre-licensing education, your next step is to apply for the real estate exam. Follow these steps to ensure your application is accepted:

1. Create an Account: Visit the PSI website (the exam provider) and create an account.
2. Application Fee: Pay the required fee of $88 when scheduling your exam.
3. Submit Documents:some text
   • Proof of completing the 40-hour pre-licensing course.
   • A valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport).
   • Background check results (required at the time of application).
4. Exam Date: Choose your preferred date, time, and testing location.

You can register for the exam online through PSI or by phone. Be sure to book early to get your desired time slot.

Step 4: Pass the Michigan Real Estate Exam

The Michigan real estate exam consists of two sections:

• National Portion: 80 questions
• State-Specific Portion: 35 questions

You’ll have 180 minutes (3 hours) to complete both sections. You need a score of 70% or higher on both sections.

The exam covers topics like contracts, real estate principles, financing, property management, and Michigan laws. 

We provide a Michigan real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam. You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.

Step 5: Get a Fingerprint Clearance Card

To become a real estate agent in Michigan, you’ll need to obtain a fingerprint clearance card. Use a Live Scan service provider approved by the Michigan State Police (MSP). 

Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting process that is quick and secure. This step ensures that all real estate professionals have passed the required background check.

Step 6: Choose a Sponsoring Broker

After passing the exam, you must work under a licensed sponsoring broker. This step is mandatory in Michigan, as new agents must operate under a broker’s supervision. 

When choosing a broker, consider their reputation, commission splits, and available training programs.

This is an exciting part! You get to research brokerages near you to find one that matches your career goals.

Step 7: Submit Your Application for a Michigan Real Estate License

With your exam results in hand, you can now submit your real estate license application to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). The application requires:

• Completed application form: (available online).
• Application fee: $88.
• Proof of sponsorship from your broker.
• Background check results (if not submitted earlier).

Applications are typically processed within a few weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive your license and can officially start working as a real estate agent.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Michigan

The following are frequently asked questions that we receive from students who are becoming a real estate agent in Michigan.

How Much Do Michigan Real Estate Agents Make?

On average, Michigan real estate agents earn $46,120 per year, though individual income varies based on factors like experience, market location, and transaction volume. 

Entry-level agents typically earn around $40,000 to $70,000 annually, while those working in more competitive markets or focusing on luxury or commercial properties often exceed $100,000 per year.

How Much Does a Michigan Real Estate License Cost?

The total cost to obtain a Michigan real estate license ranges from $300 to $600, including:

• Real estate license courses: $200–$300
• Exam fee: $79
• Application fee: $88
• Background check: $50

These fees may vary slightly depending on the course provider and other factors.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Michigan Worth It?

A real estate career offers control over your schedule, allowing you to balance work and personal life. This flexibility can be ideal for parents or those with other commitments. 

However, being available during evenings and weekends is often essential to accommodate clients during busy times​.

Real estate income is commission-based, meaning there is no salary cap. The more deals you close, the higher your earnings. 

Agents working in high-demand areas like Ann Arbor or Detroit can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with luxury or commercial properties​.

Many agents advance by becoming brokers or starting their own real estate businesses. Specializing in areas like investment properties or property management can increase both income and career opportunities. 

With experience, agents can transition into leadership roles, building teams or independent businesses​.

If all of this sounds ideal, then a career in real estate sounds like a good match for you!

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Real estate can be a rewarding but challenging career. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• It takes time to build a client base: Don’t expect instant success.
• Ongoing education is required: You’ll need to stay updated on market trends and laws.
• Networking is essential: Building relationships is key to growing your business.

The first year is tricky. Most agents don’t see income within their first 6-months. But, don’t let that discourage you.

If you focus on building a successful career and stick to it, success will come!

Can I Get a Michigan Real Estate License If I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

Michigan does not offer formal reciprocity agreements with any specific states. However, agents licensed in other states can apply for a waiver of the pre-licensing education requirement if they can demonstrate that their experience and training align with Michigan's standards. 

Regardless of prior licensing, all out-of-state agents must pass the Michigan-specific portion of the real estate exam to qualify for a Michigan license. This pathway helps streamline licensing for experienced agents moving to Michigan while ensuring they understand local regulations.

How Often Do I Renew My Michigan Real Estate License?

Michigan real estate licenses must be renewed every three years. During each renewal cycle, agents are required to complete 18 hours of continuing education, with at least 6 hours completed annually. including the following courses each year of a renewal cycle:

• Laws, Rules, and Court Cases Regarding Real Estate (2 hours)
• Compliance With Local, State, or Federal Fair Housing Market Laws (1 hour)

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Michigan

Obtaining your Michigan real estate license is the gateway to a flexible, rewarding career. 

With the right education, preparation, and support from a sponsoring broker, you can build a successful business in real estate. 

If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Michigan real estate licensing course today and get a discount.