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State Overview
Michigan regulates the security guard industry through Michigan LARA - CSCL Bureau under a agency license only framework. Training requirements: None state-mandated. Fee structure: Agency license: $300 initial (partnership/LLC/corp) or $200 (sole proprietor); branch: $50; renewal: $150 (agency) / $100 (sole proprietor) / $50 (branch).
Michigan sits in the Midwest region, with a agency license only regulatory posture.
Key Facts
Regulatory framework: Agency License Only
Licensing agency: Michigan LARA - CSCL Bureau
Training: None state-mandated.
Fees: Agency license: $300 initial (partnership/LLC/corp) or $200 (sole proprietor); branch: $50; renewal: $150 (agency) / $100 (sole proprietor) / $50 (branch).
Processing time: Not published
Renewal cycle: 3 years (agency)
Key restriction: Agency licensing only.
eLearning, initial
No training mandate
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
None mandated
Renewal: 3 years (agency)
License Fee
Agency license: $300 initial (partnershi
Not published
Governing Agency
Michigan LARA - CSCL Bureau
PA 330 of 1968 (MCL 338.1051-338.1092)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating the Not published processing window and starting work before approval is finalized.
Ignoring this restriction in operational planning: Agency licensing only.
Submitting an incomplete background-check packet or expired fingerprint cards, both of which restart the processing clock.
Missing the 3 years (agency) renewal cycle and letting the license lapse, which forces a full re-application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours does Michigan require for unarmed security guards?
None state-mandated.
What does it cost to get a security guard license in Michigan?
Agency license: $300 initial (partnership/LLC/corp) or $200 (sole proprietor); branch: $50; renewal: $150 (agency) / $100 (sole proprietor) / $50 (branch).
How long does Michigan take to process a guard license application?
Not published
Can I take Michigan guard training online?
Michigan treats online training as n/a for initial coursework and n/a for renewal. Confirm specific course approval directly with Michigan LARA - CSCL Bureau.
How often do I renew a security guard license in Michigan?
License renewal cycle: 3 years (agency).
Practical Tips
Plan for the published processing window: Not published. Submit applications early to avoid coverage gaps.
LARA no longer reviews employee fitness; 90-day provisional employment pending FBI clearance
Restriction to verify before hiring: Agency licensing only
Direct line for verification: 517-241-9221. Use it before relying on third-party summaries.
Most recent regulatory change (2025-11-04): LARA Rule Set 2023-80 LR effective November 4, 2025: (1) All licensed security guards must now wear a visible ID badge on outermost garment showing agency name, employee photo, and role while on duty.
Recent Regulatory Changes
LARA Rule Set 2023-80 LR effective November 4, 2025: (1) All licensed security guards must now wear a visible ID badge on outermost garment showing agency name, employee photo, and role while on duty. (2) LARA no longer reviews fitness for employment, employers must conduct fingerprint/background checks via MSP ICHAT before any guard stands a post. Submission of new employee documentation to LARA no longer required.
MASIP (Michigan Association of Security and Investigative Professionals) submitted formal public comments on proposed Rule Set 2023-80 LR addressing modernization of industry standards prior to final adoption.
See the "Regulatory Changes" tab for full history →