builder

Different types of builder’s licenses are issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) in the state of Michigan. The licenses are compulsory for any type of construction project – both residential and commercial or a combination of the two. You require a license for the following activities:

  • Construction activities
  • Repair or any type of alteration in a structure.  

You are exempted from getting a license if:

  • You are working on your own property
  • You work as an officer at the court
  • You are an authorized government representative
  • You are working on a project where the value of the contract is less than $ 600
  • You are a licensed plumbing contractor and doing plumbing work
  • You have a license for a mechanical contractor and doing some mechanical activity

Types of Lara Approved Michigan Builders License 

  • Residential builders license

This is the primary type of license and covers all types of residential or a combination of residential and commercial projects. You can perform activities like demolition, repair, alteration, replacements, etc.

For plumbing and electrical works, you have to hire licensed subcontractors.

  • Commercial builders license

This type of license may be required for working only on commercial projects. You have to check with your local government to find out whether you need this license to work on office buildings, factories, etc. 

Contracting activities for commercial projects are regulated by local laws throughout Michigan.

  • Maintenance and alteration contractor’s license

This is a specialized license that covers a list of activities that you can perform, and these include: 

  • Basement waterproofing 
  • Carpentry works
  • Concrete constructions
  • Excavation activities
  • Gutters
  • Wrecking of houses
  • Insulation works
  • Masonry
  • Roofing 
  • Construction of screens and storm sash
  • Siding
  • Building a swimming pool
  • Tile and marble works

Pre-license education course 

There is a compulsory education course consisting of 60 hours which you have to complete to be eligible for a license. The course is approved by LARA and is expected to address safety issues at work. A minimum of six hours has to be contributed on the below topics:

  • Business management, estimation, costing
  • Design and building techniques
  • Risk management, contracts, liability
  • Sales and marketing
  • Project management and scheduling
  • The residential code of Michigan
  • Safety standards related to MIOSHA construction works

How to apply for the Lara Approved Michigan Builders License

The application has to be sent along with a fee of $195. If the application is approved, you will get authorization from LARA for the test letter. You have to pass the exam to get your license. 

There is also a separate fee for taking the exam. For residential builders, it would be $ 117, and for maintenance and alterations, the fee is at the rate of $ 70 for the type of project that you wish to take up.

You will get important information about the exam on the website. It includes candidate details, exam topics, number of questions, etc.

There are several education providers approved by LARA who provide package courses to help you prepare for the exams. Although the test is extensive, you can get through if you prepare well and complete the course.