The May 31 deadline is almost here, and every year, Michigan builders make the same mistakes that delay their renewal, cost them work, or worse, cause their license to lapse.
This isn’t the time to assume everything is fine. It’s time to make sure nothing is missed.
Why This Deadline Matters More Than You Think
Michigan builder licenses must be renewed every three years by May 31, and you must complete your Continuing Competency first before you can renew.
If you miss it:
- Your license lapses
- You may face late fees or reinstatement requirements
- You cannot legally pull permits or perform work
That’s not just an inconvenience; it’s a direct hit to your income.
Mistake #1: Thinking “I Still Have Time”
This is the most common and most dangerous mistake.
Builders say, “I’ll get to it next week.”
Then:
- Jobs run long
- Schedules fill up
- The deadline creeps closer
And suddenly, you’re out of time. Reality: You don’t need weeks. You just need to start.
Mistake #2: Not Completing Continuing Competency First
You cannot renew your license without completing Continuing Competency.
Yet every cycle, builders:
- Try to renew first
- Realize they’re missing hours
- Scramble at the last minute
This creates unnecessary stress and risk.
Mistake #3: Overcomplicating the Process
Some builders delay because they think:
- It will take too long
- It will interrupt their schedule
- It’s more involved than it actually is
That’s not the case. Many builders can complete their Continuing Competency in just a few hours (or a few days if 21 hours are required).
Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Course
At this stage, the wrong course can slow you down.
You don’t want:
- Complicated formats
- Unnecessary steps
- Delays in getting your certificate
You want something simple, fast, and built for completion.
Mistake #5: Waiting Until the Final Days
Here’s what happens every year:
- Builders wait until the last week
- Everyone rushes at the same time
- Stress goes up
- Mistakes increase
And some don’t finish in time.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Let’s be clear:
If you don’t complete your Continuing Competency and renew by May 31:
- Your license can lapse
- You may not be able to legally work
- Projects can be delayed
- Income can be impacted
This isn’t just paperwork. It affects your ability to operate.
The Simple Way to Get This Done, Today
At this point, the goal is simple. Finish your Continuing Competency. Then renew.
Our Continuing Competency courses are designed for exactly this moment. When you need to get it done quickly, correctly, and without hassle.
3-Hour Course (6+ Years Licensed)
- Complete in one sitting
- Covers required Code, Safety, and Business/Law
- Immediate certificate
21-Hour Course (Less Than 6 Years Licensed)
- Structured for efficient completion
- Finish in days. Not weeks.
- Progress at your own pace
Built for Speed and Simplicity
- 100% online, On-demand
- No unnecessary steps
- Taught by Sid Woryn with real-world insight
As a Licensed Michigan Proprietary School, you can complete your requirement with confidence and without wasting time. Click here to learn more.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Let This Be the Reason You Can’t Work
At this point, there are only two types of builders:
- Those who have already completed their Continuing Competency
- Those who still need to
If you’re in the second group, there’s still time.
But not much.
Don’t wait. Don’t guess. Don’t risk it. Complete your Continuing Competency now. Then renew your license.
Stay Licensed. Stay Working.
External Sources
- Michigan Continuing Competency Requirements (LARA)
- Continuing Competency Explanation (Michigan Builders License)
