If you’re a licensed builder or maintenance and alteration contractor in Michigan, keeping your license active isn’t optional — it’s your professional lifeline. But the renewal process can feel confusing if you only deal with it every few years. That’s why we’ve put together this complete 2025 guide to help you stay compliant, avoid delays, and make your renewal as stress-free as possible.
When to Renew Your Michigan Builder License
In Michigan, builder and maintenance & alteration contractor licenses are renewed every three years through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). For most license holders, the next renewal deadline is May 31, 2025. If you miss the deadline, your license will lapse — meaning you can’t legally pull permits or work on residential projects until you reinstate it. Late renewals may also include penalty fees, so mark your calendar early.
Continuing Education Requirements
Before you can renew, LARA requires proof of continuing competency (CE) hours.
The requirements depend on how long you’ve been licensed:
Builders licensed less than six years: must complete 21 hours of CE, including safety, legal updates, and business practices.
Builders licensed six years or more: must complete 3 hours of CE focusing on code, safety, and legal updates.
These courses ensure that you stay informed about Michigan’s building codes, regulations, and safety standards.
💡 Pro tip: Complete your CE online with the Michigan Institute of Real Estate — flexible, LARA-approved, and designed specifically for Michigan builders.
How to Renew Your License:
Renewing your builder license is straightforward if you know the steps. Here’s how:
Confirm your eligibility.
Make sure your CE hours are complete and up to date.Visit the LARA online portal.
Head to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and log in to your account.Pay the renewal fee.
Fees vary slightly each cycle, but expect to pay around $150.Submit your application and proof of CE.
If you’ve completed your education with a LARA-approved provider like My Real Estate School, your completion record is already accepted.Watch for confirmation.
Once approved, you’ll receive your new license by email or mail.
What Happens If You Miss the Renewal Deadline …
If your license lapses, you cannot legally perform residential construction or maintenance work in Michigan. Continuing to work under an expired license can result in:
Fines and penalties from LARA
Inability to pull permits
Loss of credibility with clients
Delays in future projects
To reinstate, you’ll need to complete your CE, pay late fees, and file a reinstatement application — a hassle that’s easy to avoid with timely renewal.
Tips for a Smooth Renewal in 2025
… Finish your CE early. Don’t wait until spring — online courses make it easy to check this off your list now.
… Keep documentation organized. Save digital copies of your CE certificates and payment confirmations.
… Bookmark the LARA site. Everything is done online, so don’t wait for mail reminders.
… Set a calendar reminder. Automate your renewal alert for every three years.
The Bottom Line …
Renewing your Michigan builder license doesn’t have to be stressful — it just takes preparation. Stay ahead by completing your CE, submitting early, and choosing a trusted education partner. At the Michigan Institute of Real Estate, we make it easy with Michigan builder continuing education courses you can complete online, anytime, from anywhere.
Ready to renew your Michigan builder license for 2025?
Explore our LARA-approved CE courses and keep your business legal, compliant, and thriving.
