How to Get Your HVAC / Mechanical Contractor License in Michigan
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for Michigan. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
4 years OJT [VERIFY]
Exam
MI Mechanical Contractor Exam
Fee Range
$65–$125 app [VERIFY]
Governing Body
MI LARA
Requirements
Michigan issues statewide HVAC/Mechanical contractor licenses through LARA's Bureau of Construction Codes. Michigan issues both a Journeyman Mechanical (HVAC) license and a Mechanical Contractor license. The Journeyman path requires completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent OJT. All technicians handling regulated refrigerants must also hold an EPA 608 certification. [VERIFY current Michigan journeyman mechanical license requirements at michigan.gov/lara]
Steps to Apply
- 1
Obtain EPA 608 certification (Type II or Universal) through an EPA-approved testing provider — required for refrigerant handling.
- 2
Complete a state-approved HVAC/mechanical apprenticeship (approximately 4 years / ~8,000 hours) or document equivalent OJT.
- 3
Submit a Journeyman Mechanical license application to MI LARA Bureau of Construction Codes at michigan.gov/lara.
- 4
Pay the application fee and have your apprenticeship or OJT hours verified.
- 5
Pass the Michigan Journeyman Mechanical exam administered by PSI.
- 6
Receive your Michigan Journeyman Mechanical license; renew every 3 years with required CE.
Exam Details
The Michigan Journeyman Mechanical exam is administered by PSI and covers the Michigan Mechanical Code (based on the IMC with Michigan amendments), HVAC systems, refrigeration, and safety. [VERIFY current MI mechanical exam format and passing score at michigan.gov/lara]
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: $65–$125 app [VERIFY]
Michigan LARA journeyman mechanical license application fees are approximately $65–$125 [VERIFY current fee schedule at michigan.gov/lara]. EPA 608 exam fees are separate ($20–$75 depending on provider).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Michigan have a statewide HVAC journeyman license?
Yes. Michigan issues statewide Journeyman Mechanical (HVAC) licenses and Mechanical Contractor licenses through LARA's Bureau of Construction Codes. Both levels are licensed at the state level.
What mechanical code does Michigan use?
Michigan uses the Michigan Mechanical Code, which is based on the International Mechanical Code (IMC) with Michigan-specific amendments. [VERIFY currently adopted edition at michigan.gov/lara]
Do I need both EPA 608 and a Michigan mechanical license?
Yes. EPA 608 is a federal requirement for anyone who purchases or handles regulated refrigerants. The Michigan Journeyman Mechanical license is a state requirement for performing HVAC/mechanical work as an occupation in Michigan. Both are required.
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