Have you ever considered turning your interest in real estate into a career? Whether you want to help people buy and sell homes, work with commercial properties, or build a career in the real estate industry, becoming a licensed real estate agent in Michigan starts with a relatively straightforward process. In Michigan, the state-issued license is a real estate salesperson license. Salespersons work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker and can be compensated for providing real estate services. 

​

The Basic Requirements

Before beginning the licensing process, you need to meet Michigan's basic eligibility requirements. To apply for a real estate salesperson license, you must be at least 18 years old. Applicants must also satisfy the state's requirements regarding good moral character. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) reviews certain criminal and disciplinary matters on a case-by-case basis. 

​

Real Estate Education

The next step is completing your prelicensure education. Michigan requires prospective real estate salespersons to complete 40 hours of approved prelicensure education. Courses are offered through approved education providers and may be available in different formats, including online and classroom instruction. When choosing a course, make sure the provider and course meet Michigan's current approval requirements. Choosing the right course format largely comes down to your learning style and schedule. We've put together a few recommendations for both in-person and online real estate education options to help you get started: 
 

Applying for License & Taking the Exam

Once you are ready to begin the licensing process, you will submit an application through Michigan's MiPLUS system. As of 2026, the Michigan Real Estate Salesperson New Application fee is $88, which includes the application and three-year license fee. After your application is processed, Michigan will provide you with an Exam Candidate ID that you will use to register for the examination. After completing the application process, you will need to pass the Michigan Real Estate Salesperson examination administered by PSI. The exam tests your understanding of the concepts covered in your prelicensure education and Michigan real estate requirements. PSI handles exam scheduling and testing, while the state establishes the licensing requirements and examination content. 

 

Choosing a Broker & Getting Started

Passing the exam does not mean you immediately begin practicing independently. Michigan requires a salesperson to be sponsored by a licensed individual broker or broker company. Your employing broker is responsible for supervising your real estate activities and is an important part of your transition from studying real estate to actually working in the industry. Choosing a brokerage is one of the biggest decisions you will make early in your career. Don't look only at commission splits. Consider the training provided, mentorship opportunities, marketing resources, technology, office culture, fees, lead generation and the types of real estate the brokerage handles. Once you have passed the exam and your employing broker has approved your sponsorship, Michigan will issue your license and notify you by email. Michigan salesperson licenses operate on a three-year renewal cycle. During each cycle, licensees must complete at least 18 hours of continuing education.

 

Becoming a REALTOR®

If you're new to the real estate industry, you may hear the terms "real estate agent," "real estate salesperson" and "REALTOR®" used interchangeably. To become a REALTOR®, a licensed real estate professional must become a member of a local REALTOR® association that is affiliated with the state and National Association of REALTORS®. In the Kalamazoo area, licensed agents can join the Greater Kalamazoo Association of REALTORS® (GKAR). Other association examples are BCAAR (Battle Creek), SWMAR (Southwest Michigan's), and GRAR (Grands Rapids). New members complete an orientation covering topics such as the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, fair housing, MLS rules and the responsibilities of membership.

​

Links to Local Boards

BCAAR

BCAR

MOM

GKAR

GRAR

SWMAR

WMLAR