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Performing electrical work in Michigan requires the right license from the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). There are different license types for individuals, businesses, and specialty work. Understanding them will help you choose the right path forward and determine the education and exams you’ll need. 

Michigan regulates electrical licensing through LARA’s Bureau of Construction Codes. The agency issues several license types. Each of these licenses carries its own unique requirements, so applicants will have to plan their preparation accordingly. 

Journeyman and Master Electrician Licenses 

Workers looking to take on independent field work need a journeyman electrician license to do so. You’ll have to be at least 20 years old and have a minimum of 8,000 documented work hours in electrical construction under supervision. From there, all you’ll need to do is pass the journeyman electrician exam. 

A master electrician is the next level, requiring applicants to have at least 12,000 hours of documented experience. You’ll also have to be at least 22 years old and have had your journeyman license for two years or more. These qualifications equip you to take on the Michigan master electrician exam. 

Michigan Electrical Contractor License 

An electrical contractor license is required for businesses that offer electrical services. A firm or individual must designate a master electrician of record, with that individual being a Michigan resident, full-time employee, and responsible for code compliance on all permitted electrical installations. 

Applicants for an electrical contractor license must also pass a separate Michigan electrical contractor exam. This exam focuses on topics such as business, law, and administration, rather than wiring and other technical aspects. Holding this license lets you pull permits, bid on projects, and legally operate an electrical contracting business. 

Fire Alarm Specialty Licenses 

Michigan also has specialty licenses for fire alarm work. A fire alarm specialty technician license requires applicants to be at least 20 years old, hold NICET Level II or similar certification, and pass a state exam covering fire codes, installation practices, and regulations. 

A fire alarm contractor license is required for companies that design, install, or service fire alarm system wiring. These businesses must employ a licensed fire alarm specialty technician of record who is responsible for overseeing code compliance and is accountable for all permitted fire alarm installations. 

Sign Specialty Licenses 

Electrical sign work is also regulated separately. A sign specialist license is for individuals who fabricate, install, maintain, or connect electric signs. Applicants must document sign-related electrical experience and pass a dedicated state exam covering sign wiring and applicable code requirements. 

A sign specialty contractor license is required for businesses that perform electric sign work. The company in question must designate a licensed sign specialist of record, making them responsible for code-compliant installations and supervision of sign-related electrical work. 

Obtaining Your Michigan Electrical License 

If you’re looking to start a career in electrical work in Michigan, getting the right license is critical. RocketCert provides flexible online exam prep to help you study efficiently for any type of Michigan electrical license. Let’s get started on your preparation today.