Michigan Laws & Details

Practice acupuncture by non-physicians requires physician delegation and supervision.  An acupuncturist will practice under delegated supervision in accordance with sections 16104, 16109, and 16215(3) of the Public Health Code.

Formal Education Requirements:  Successful completion of a three-year postsecondary training program or acupuncture college program that is approved by ACAOM.

Other Eligibility Requirements:  Proof   of   current   certification   conferred   by   the   National   Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).  Other certification may be reviewed for substantial equivalency to NCCAOM certification.  If  education  was  not  taught  in  English,  pass  the  TOEFL  (minimum 550)  and  TSE  (minimum 50) or pass the TOEFL iBT (minimum 89). Arrange  for  submission  of  verification  of  registration/licensure in  any  state  where  registered/licensed, even if the registration/license is no longer active.  A fingerprint report and criminal background check are required. 

Reciprocity/Endorsement:  Arrange  for  submission  of  verification  of  registration/licensure in  any  state  where  registered/licensed, even if the registration/license is no longer active.   Submit proof of current certification conferred by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).  Other certification may be reviewed for substantial equivalency to NCCAOM certification.  A fingerprint report and criminal background check are required.

Medical doctors and osteopaths may practice acupuncture in Michigan without any specific training.

Acupuncture is not within the scope of practice of chiropractors.

NOTE:  Look for a physician with formal training in the practice of acupuncture.  Acupuncture and Oriental medicine is an art and a science that takes years to master.  While any licensed physician can stick needles into you, for a positive experience, find an acupuncturist with experience treating a similar condition (with acupuncture) to what you have.

Michigan Department of Community Health
Bureau of Health Professions
Ottawa Building
611 W. Ottawa St. 1st Floor
Lansing, MI 48933
(517) 335-0918

Public Health Code Act 368 of 1978, Section 333.16215

Practice Act 30 of 2006. Amended MCL 333.16131 and 333.16263 by 2004 PA 97, and added section 16322 and part 165.

Michigan Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (MAAOM)
P.O. Box 4404
East Lansing MI 48826-4404