You can apply for a new driver's license at any Secretary of State Office in Michigan. Obtain a Michigan Driver's Handbook to familiarize with the driving rules and regulations.
[edit] NEW DRIVERS AND FIRST TIME APPLICANTS
Following are the basic requirements for applying for a Michigan driver's license:
- Applicants must be 14 years 9 months or older.
- Any individual under 18 should provide parental consent and complete an approved driver education program. For additional details, see Beginner Drivers and/or Learner's Permits for Beginner Drivers.
- Everyone must pass the vision, knowledge and road skills tests, and also answer a few general health questions. See Practice Tests and Driver's Handbook for more information on the written examination. Driver education programs can help individuals prepare for their road test.
- Applicants must provide the following documents - two acceptable proofs of identity, proof of legal presence in the US, a valid social security number or proof of ineligibility and two proofs of Michigan residency.
[edit] NEW RESIDENTS
Michigan residents holding a valid driver's license from another state or Canada need to pass the vision test and answer health-related questions. If the out-of-state license has expired over 4 years ago, the written and driving skills tests need to be taken as well. Like other applicants, new residents must also provide social security number or letter of ineligibility, proof of US citizenship or legal presence in US, two proofs of identification and residency. Non-US citizens residing in Michigan may apply for a Michigan driver's license, as long as they can provide proof that they are legally authorized to be in the United States, and meet all the other requirements.[edit] FEES
The fee for an original operator's license is $25. The fee is accepted in cash, checks and money orders. Discover cards are accepted only at PLUS Offices and Super! Centers.[edit] VALIDITY
The validity of a Michigan driver's license is based on the driver's age at the time the license was issued.- For drivers below 21, the license is valid until their 21st birthday, after which it may be renewed.
- For drivers over 21, the license is usually valid for four years and expires on the birthday.
[edit] LEARNER'S LICENSE
With certain restrictions, an individual can legally drive in Michigan with a learner's license or a temporary instruction permit. See more information on graduated driver licenses here.[edit] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- See also Renewing Your License.
- For information on other types of licenses, see Commercial Driver's Licenses, Motorcycle Licenses.
- It is necessary to have active Auto Insurance in order to drive legally in Michigan.
- New drivers see our Driver Education , Driving Schools, Beginner Drivers and Learner's Permits for Beginner Drivers sections.