Learn the Ins and Outs of Skilled-Trade Licensing at the Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC)!
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs sent this bulletin at 09/01/2026 09:00 AM EDT
Trades Connection Digest - September 1, 2026
How do You Celebrate the People Who Build Our Communities? 
September offers an excellent opportunity to recognize the dedicated workforce professionals who ensure the safety and reliability of our buildings, roads, and everyday infrastructure. According to I BUILD AMERICA 80% of construction firms reported having difficulty filling positions and as of March 2019 there were nearly 364,000 job available in the construction industry.
Use the following three opportunities this month to celebrate building officials. Whether you host a gathering, spotlight outstanding staff, or simply bring in cupcakes, each moment is a chance to recognize and showcase these invaluable team members.
September 1, 2026 - Building and Code Staff Appreciation Day
September 18, 2026 – National Tradesmen Day
September 21, 2026 – September 25, 2026 - National Construction Appreciation Week
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By celebrating these dates in September, we not only highlight the critical role of building officials but also reinforce our shared commitment to safer living for all Michigan residents.
Learn the Answer to the Most Asked Licensing Question
Some of the most frequently asked licensing questions involve non-traditional pathways to licensure. The Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC) offers several options to help individuals meet Michigan's licensing requirements.
The Pathway to Licensure Program allows individuals who previously held a Michigan-issued license the opportunity to reinstate a license through code updates and examination without having to obtain additional experience or documentation of experience.
The Licensing Continuity Program supports individuals who once held a Michigan-issued license, moved to another state, and obtained an equivalent license in another state. This pathway allows individuals to have their Michigan license reissued without an examination once specific requirements are met.
Additionally, individuals who currently hold an out-of-state license may be eligible for an equivalent Michigan license. To do so, they must provide the necessary documentation and pass the required examination. Eligibility is determined after submission of the necessary documentation and successful completion of the required examination.
And most impactful of all is the Veteran Licensing Program. This program for active and veteran service members or their dependent family members includes useful information such as license or examination fee waivers to temporary dependent licenses. There are multiple ways to get the most out of the veteran program.
If you have questions about your situation, we strongly encourage individuals to reach out and speak with staff at 517-241-9316 or email to LARA-BCC-Licensing@Michigan.gov. Or visit our website at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc/sections/licensing-section.
Why Should Skilled-Trade Professionals Maintain their License? 
Integrity. When Michigan citizens are looking to have work done on their home, hiring licensed and skilled individuals provides security in knowing those they hire care enough to ensure they meet requirements of the law. Through continued education requirements and valued relationships between licensed individuals and inspectors, homeowners and business owners can feel confident their project was done with a clear understanding of code and law compliance. Through these actions, reputations are built, businesses are strong, and employment numbers improve.
License, renewal, and continuing education requirements can be found on our website at www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc/sections/licensing-section. You can also find approved continuing education courses at https://courses.cebroker.com/search/mi.
Licensing staff is available for questions and directions via email at LARA-BCC-Licensing@Michigan.gov or by calling 517-241-9316
A Brief Note from Licensing Manager, Kelly Bean
I'm very proud of the licensing section staff in their continued efforts to assist customers in getting licensed and staying licensed. Our team motto is "getting to yes." If you can't meet requirements at the time of submission, they will let you know if you can within your one-year application time or if you need to come back and when with updated information, they will let you know and explain clearly what is needed.
Our team has worked on addressing issues and concerns that were brought to our attention as a result from the Red Tape Report initiative in early 2025. Updating forms, creating consistency, and providing clear information on our website.
Licensing section staff is also a great resource for homeowners looking for information and resources in finding appropriately licensed staff to complete home improvement projects.
If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact the qualified and professional licensing staff at 517-241-9316 or LARA-BCC-Licensing@Michigan.gov.
https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc/sections/licensing-section
Kelly Bean
Licensing Manager
Learn More about the Importance of Licensing
Maintaining an active professional license is an important part of ensuring continued competency and accountability within the area of skilled trades. License renewal requirements in the form of continuing education credits help professionals stay current with Michigan standards, regulatory changes, and evolving code requirements. By keeping a license in good standing, tradespeople demonstrate their commitment to public safety and ongoing compliance with state regulations, while being able to legally perform work throughout Michigan.
Is your license renewal coming due? Don’t miss important deadlines and requirements before your renewal time. Find all the current licensing renewal requirements on the BCC Licensing Registration Renewals webpage.
If you are a homeowner looking for more information on how to protect yourself during home improvement projects and the importance of hiring licensed professionals, download a copy of the Consumer Guide to Home Improvement Projects booklet on our website.
Stay Informed by Attending a Public Board or Commission Meeting
Throughout the year the Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC) host multiple occasions which allow members of the public the opportunity to participate in Michigan policy.
Boards and commissions meetings. There are 11 different boards and commissions hosted through the BCC. These meetings are open forums where public officials deliberate on matters affecting Michigan public safety, health, services, and laws. To learn more information about attending a meeting, including what topics will be address, visit the Boards and Commissions page on the BCC website.
The BCC also hosts public hearings regarding the continuing updates to Michigan building codes. These hearings offer the public the chance to review proposed changes to the state’s building code rules and include space for public comment. You can find more information about our currently open rules sets and how to attend a meeting on the BCC website.
Need More from the Bureau of Construction Codes?
BCC professionals are always looking for events to attend where they can spread awareness, teach code compliance, provide important information, or meet with members of the community.
Join Licensing Manager, Kelly Bean, on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 11:30 AM for a virtual presentation on Building and Maintenance Licensing with the Better Business Bureau. Visit the program informational form to learn more about the upcoming presentation and register to attend.
Spend the day with the Bureau of Construction Codes at the inaugural Michigan Code Collaborative Conference on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan! This first‑of‑its‑kind event will bring industry professionals together for a full day of collaboration, learning, and discussion on Michigan’s building codes and emerging trends.
Space is limited, so please be sure to register by Wednesday, October 21, 2026, to secure your spot.
If you would like to request training from the BCC, please complete our Presentation Request Form to let us know how we can best help you and your team.
We’re Hiring!
The Bureau of Construction Codes has over 190 employees who work to keep Michigan construction safe. If you are interested in joining the team, take a look at our open positions here!
Trades Connection is published to provide clarity, promote consistency, and enhance predictability within the construction industry. The information contained herein is strictly advisory and does not have the force or effect of law unless a statute or an administrative rule is cited. The Bureau of Construction Codes shall be held harmless for any and all damages or litigation resulting from the use of this information herein.