Michigan renewal guide
HVAC Contractor License (State)
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 36 months
Renewal fee
$300.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Continuing education
6 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 6 required hours before you start the renewal.
- 2
File with the board
File through Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and pay the $300.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 3
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Michigan HVAC Contractor License
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) licenses HVAC contractors under the Michigan Mechanical Code. A valid license is required to perform heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration work.
Requirements
- Examination: Must pass the Michigan HVAC contractor exam
- Experience: Documented HVAC experience required
- Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation insurance are not required by LARA for licensure, but are recommended
- Continuing Education: 6 hours per 3-year renewal cycle
- Application Fee: $300 ($100 per year)
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years (expires August 31)
- Renewal Fee: $300 ($100 per year)
- Continuing Education: 6 hours required each cycle
- Late Penalty: $75 additional fee
- Grace Period: 60 days after expiration
Scope of Work
Licensed HVAC contractors may install, alter, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Performing HVAC work without a valid license is a violation of the Mechanical Code. Penalties include fines and potential criminal charges.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with Michigan LARA.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Examination Results
- continuing_education_certificate
Source notes
MCL 339.5813 (Skilled Trades Regulation Act) . Official: $100/year initial and renewal ($300 per 3-year cycle). Verified March 2026.
Rules move. Check Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
Related content
Keep exploring.
Next steps
Turn it into a handoff.
Once the rule is clear, these tools help you hand it off cleanly or turn it into a cost plan.
Printable checklist
Michigan checklist
Use the checklist when you need the board link, required documents, and renewal notes in one handoff.
Open checklistCost planning
Estimate this renewal cost
Start the calculator with this state and license selected so you can review the fee, late-risk, bond, insurance, and CE work faster.
Open calculatorTrack the next renewal.
Keep HVAC Contractor License (State) dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.