Cosmetologist in Michigan

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$35,720

trending_up +1.3% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Michigan.

engineering

9,010

Jobs (MI)

monitoring Strong

+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments

$210

Licensing fees

schedule

9-12 months

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in Michigan

To become a licensed Cosmetologist in Michigan, individuals must meet several requirements set by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This typically involves completing a 1500-hour training program at a LARA-approved cosmetology school or serving a 2-year apprenticeship in a licensed establishment, in addition to having a 9th-grade education. Applicants must pass both a written and practical examination administered by PSI Services, and be at least 17 years old. Michigan offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees whose qualifications are substantially equivalent to Michigan's, with provisions for work experience to compensate for differences in training hours.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $24,120

25th percentile $28,130

50th (median) $35,720

75th percentile $47,430

90th (experienced) $70,250

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Michigan. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Michigan requirements

Licensing body	Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) - Cosmetology
State license	Required
Education	1500-hour training program or 2-year apprenticeship, and 9th grade education
Exam	NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI) ($171)
Application fee	$39
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Notes	Minimum age: 17 years old. Applicants must also be of good moral character and provide a social security number. Background verification may be required. Implicit bias training is required for some licensees, but it is not explicitly stated for cosmetologists. It is best to check with LARA directly for the most current and specific requirements.

Source: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) - Cosmetology

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+5.6%

Faster than average

Annual openings

75,800

Nationwide per year

Total employment

575,200

Nationwide

neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -0.68/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

check_circleMichigan license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
check_circleLow AI disruption risk

psychology

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Frequently asked questions

How do I become a cosmetologist in Michigan? expand_more

To become a cosmetologist in Michigan, you need to complete the required education (1500-hour training program or 2-year apprenticeship, and 9th grade education), pass the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI), and submit your application ($39 fee).

Do I need a license to work as a cosmetologist in Michigan? expand_more

Michigan mandates state licensure for cosmetologists. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) - Cosmetology oversees the process, which includes passing the NIC National Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (administered by PSI).

What is the average cosmetologist salary in Michigan? expand_more

Michigan cosmetologists bring home a median salary of $35,720. This is close to the national median of $35,250. The range spans from $24,120 at the entry level to $70,250 for top earners.

How expensive is cosmetologist licensing in Michigan? expand_more

The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($171) and application fee ($39) and required training.

How many months or years does cosmetologist certification take in Michigan? expand_more

Expect to spend 9-12 months from start to finish in Michigan — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.