Cosmetologist License in Michigan
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Michigan, you must be at least 17, complete 9th grade, finish 1,500 hours of training (or 2-year apprenticeship), and pass the PSI exam. No CE required. Military spouses receive reduced fees. Estimated costs are approximately $175.
- Education Required
- 1500 hours
- Exam
- Michigan Cosmetology Exam (PSI)
- Total Cost
- $175 (est.)
- Timeline
- 9-14 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Cosmetologist license in Michigan
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $18
- Exam Fee
- $65
- Renewal Fee
- $55
- Total Estimated Cost
- $175
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist license in Michigan. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Michigan licensing board.
Cosmetologist Salary in Michigan
Entry Level
$24,120
Median
$35,720
Experienced
$70,250
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Cosmetologist in Michigan.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — Michigan Cosmetology Exam (PSI)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$18.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 9-14 months.
Cosmetologist Licensing in Michigan: What to Know
Michigan explicitly states requirements: applicants must be at least 17, have completed 9th grade (equivalent), and have completed either 1,500 hours of cosmetology training OR a 2-year apprenticeship. The PSI exam is required. No CE is required for renewal, and no criminal record prohibitions exist. Military spouses receive reduced fees. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs oversees cosmetology through the Bureau of Professional Licensing. Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor are the primary markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Cosmetologist license cost in Michigan?
- The estimated total cost is $175, including application fees, exam fees ($65), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist license in Michigan?
- The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist license in Michigan?
- You need to pass the Michigan Cosmetology Exam (PSI). State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Cosmetologist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.