HowToGetLicensed

Contractor License: Illinois vs Michigan

Thinking about getting your contractor license? Here's how Illinois and Michigan compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement Illinois Michigan
Education Hours 0 hours 60 hours
Exam Varies by municipality Michigan Residential Builder Exam
Application Fee $0 $185
Exam Fee $0 $79
Total Estimated Cost $100 - $500 $500 - $1,000
Renewal Period Every 1 year Every 3 years
CE Hours 0 hours 21 hours
Renewal Fee $0 $185

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $100-$500 compared to $500-$1,000.

Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 60 hours in Michigan.

Full State Guides

Compare contractor requirements across all 50 states →