Online casinos need human labor to function optimally, including website managers, live dealers, game developers, and customer support experts. And working in many of these positions comes with numerous perks, including lucrative pay and flexible hours.
But crucial to note is that working at an online gambling platform in Michigan requires an occupation license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board. You might be wondering how to begin the application process.
Fear not. Here is a step-to-step guide to applying for a gaming occupational license in The Great Lakes State.
Step 1: Find a Casino with an Open Position
The occupational license awarded by the MGCB is for casino employees exclusively. So, to get it, you must be working in this field. If you’re yet to join the industry as an employee, find a casino that’s hiring and apply for a suitable job. Most importantly, ensure the establishment you plan to work for has received a license from The Michigan Gaming Control Board.
If there’s a good casino you'd like to work for but need to know if it's hiring, contact the HR department and ask if the establishment has open positions.
Remember to ask for the exact details of available jobs. The casino operators often employ different professionals, ranging from online game hosts and lottery draw specialists to cashiers and support agents.
By asking for more information, you will be better positioned to tailor your application to specific positions and demonstrate genuine interest.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
The Michigan Gaming Control Board only awards occupational licenses to applicants who meet specified requirements. For example, the authority requires applicants to be at least 21, especially if their jobs require them to interact with patrons. The age limit for casino employees who perform nongaming functions is 18 years.
Before applying for a gaming license, check if you meet all eligibility requirements. That is crucial, especially since the MGCB has different stipulations for different occupations. For example, you can only apply for a LEVEL 1 license if you are to work as a manager or supervisor. On the other hand, you can't get any license if you've ever been convicted of certain crimes, like fraud or gambling-related offenses.
If ineligible for a casino occupational license, consider working in areas that don’t involve casino gaming. For instance, you can join a land-based gambling establishment in capacities that don’t usually demand licensing, like housekeeping or working in human resources.
Step 3: Obtain and Fill Out the Application Form
Suppose you are eligible for an occupation from the MGCB. In that case, obtain an application from the official MCPB website. Be careful when downloading the document from other platforms since some can expose you to viruses and malware attacks.
After downloading the application form, please fill it out. This process requires you to submit crucial information like your name, permanent mailing address, and occupation. Ensure every information you include in the document is accurate and truthful. If MGCB authorities detect any abnormalities, they will reject your application.
Step 4: Submit the Application and Required Documentation
The best way to submit a duly filled casino employee form in Michigan is in person. Simply visit the Michigan Gaming Control Board with your filled-out form and required documentation, including your birth certificate, social security card, driver’s license, and written statement from your employer stating they’ve hired you.
Please don't leave out any document the MGCB asks for since it can undermine your chances of getting a casino employee license. The Michigan Gaming Control Board rarely licenses individuals who fail to submit the required documentation because they need the documents to verify if applicants have the skills, training, and qualifications needed to hold down specific jobs.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee and Wait for a Response
The MGCB charges reasonable fees for casino employee licenses. But the exact amounts vary depending on the jobs involved. If you want to work in a high-level position like a manager or supervisor (LEVEL ONE), expect to pay a 500-dollar application fee.
On the other hand, a lower position in LEVEL 2 or LEVEL 3 should cost you either $100 or $50, respectively. Check out the MGCB guideline for more information.
If your application for an occupational license gets denied, you may appeal the decision through the MGCB offices.
Ready to Join the Gaming Industry?
Working in an online casino in Michigan requires obtaining an occupational license from the MGCB. The process is pretty straightforward. Just get a job in the gaming industry and use your employer’s written statement to apply for a casino employee license. After submitting your application form, wait for a response from the MGCB.
While waiting for your license, familiarize yourself with Michigan betting laws. With sufficient knowledge, you will be better positioned to excel at your job, protect players, and prevent illegal activities like underage gambling.
All the best!
