Key Takeaways

  • The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) regulates real estate licensees in Michigan
  • The Bureau of Professional Licensing within LARA administers real estate licenses under the Occupational Code
  • Michigan requires 40 hours of pre-license education, including 4 hours of civil rights/fair housing training
  • The licensing exam has 115 scored questions plus 5-10 pretest questions with 3 hours time limit
  • Passing score is 70% on both the national and state portions of the exam
Last updated: January 2026

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)

Important: This content covers Michigan-specific real estate laws and regulations. You should complete the National Real Estate Exam Prep first, as the Michigan exam includes national questions in addition to state-specific questions.

The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating real estate professionals in Michigan. The Bureau of Professional Licensing within LARA handles real estate licensing matters.

LARA Structure

The Bureau of Professional Licensing operates under LARA and is responsible for:

FunctionDescription
LicensingIssue, renew, suspend, and revoke licenses
EducationApprove pre-license and continuing education providers
EnforcementInvestigate complaints and take disciplinary action
RulemakingImplement administrative rules under the Occupational Code

Michigan Real Estate Law

Michigan real estate licensing is governed by:

  • Occupational Code (Act 299 of 1980) - Primary licensing statute
  • Article 25 - Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons
  • Administrative Rules - Detailed licensing requirements

Key provisions include licensing requirements, prohibited conduct, trust fund handling, and disclosure requirements.

Exam Tip: LARA has authority to investigate complaints, conduct hearings, and impose sanctions including fines, license suspension, and revocation.

LARA Contact Information

Address: P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI 48909 Phone: (517) 241-0199 Website: michigan.gov/lara

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Michigan LARA Real Estate Licensing Structure
Test Your Knowledge

Which state agency regulates real estate licensing in Michigan?

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Test Your Knowledge

Under which Michigan law are real estate licenses primarily governed?

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D