Essential Guide to Michigan Physician Assistant CE Requirements for the 2026 Renewal
Michigan Physician Assistants (PAs) preparing for the 2026 license renewal must comply with specific, mandatory training requirements set by the state. This guide provides the critical updates you need to maintain an active license, including the new three-year renewal cycle and the updated 3-hour Implicit Bias training mandate.
Meeting these requirements is crucial for all Michigan-licensed PAs to ensure compliance with the Michigan Board of Medicine and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Mandatory Continuing Education Requirements for Michigan PAs (2026)
Michigan is unique in that it does not mandate a specific number of general CME hours for Physician Assistants. Compliance rests entirely on completing the following required subject-specific trainings during your renewal period:
1. Implicit Bias Training
This is the most significant change due to the three-year license cycle.
- Renewal Requirement: PAs renewing their license in 2026 must complete a minimum of three (3) hours of implicit bias training. This reflects the requirement of one (1) hour for each year of the new 3-year license cycle (effective June 1, 2022).
- Initial Licensure: Applicants for a new license must complete at least two (2) hours of implicit bias training within the five years prior to issuance.
Need to Complete Your 3-Hour Implicit Bias Training? Renew Now CE offers flexible, accredited course options designed to meet your state compliance requirements, allowing you to combine modules to reach the necessary 3 hours:
2. Opioid and Controlled Substances Awareness
This training is mandatory for PAs who prescribe or dispense controlled substances.
- Requirement: Since May 28, 2024, all licensed prescribers in Michigan, including PAs, must complete ongoing, approved training in opioids and controlled substances awareness with each renewal period. This is essential for safe prescribing practices and combating the opioid crisis.
3. Human Trafficking Training
This is a one-time requirement for licensure.
- Requirement: Completion of training on identifying victims of human trafficking is required for initial licensure and must be attested to during renewal if not completed previously. This training ensures PAs are equipped to identify and assist vulnerable patient populations.
Meet the One-Time Mandate:
4. DEA Registration and Substance Use Disorder Training (MATE Act)
This is a federal requirement but critical for Michigan PAs with DEA registration.
- Requirement: Since June 27, 2023, PAs with DEA registration must complete a one-time, 8-hour training on treating and managing patients with opioid or other substance use disorders (SUD), including the use of FDA-approved treatments.
How to Renew Your Michigan PA License in MiPLUS
All training providers should be accredited and eligible to award AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ or equivalent. You are required to maintain documentation of all completed trainings for a minimum of four years.
To renew your license for the 2026 cycle:
- Verify Completion: Ensure all 3 hours of Implicit Bias and other mandatory requirements are complete.
- Submit Online: Renew your license through the official MiPLUS online portal.
- Confirm Details: Contact the Michigan Bureau of Professional Licensing for the official PA requirements and any last-minute updates:
- State Health Licensing Board Website: Michigan Bureau of Professional Licensing (LARA) – Physician’s Assistant
Stay compliant and ready for the 2026 renewal deadline with Renew Now CE.