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Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to file a police report if my license was lost or stolen?
In the event that you have a lost drivers license or a stolen drivers license, visit your nearest police station to complete a report. After you have filed a police report, take this document with you to a local SOS office. You will need to present it along with documentation that proves your identity.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

How can I obtain a copy of the driver manual?
Drivers can obtain an electronic copy of the Michigan Department of State driving manual online. The complete manual, which consists of eight chapters, provides in-depth details and information about the following topics:
  • Everything you need to know about your MI drivers license
  • Road safety skills, road signs seat belt information and traffic laws
  • How to tackle and be prepared for special situations on the road
  • Michigan ID cards and Voter Registration information
  • Helpful links and resources

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

How can I renew my drivers license?
The Michigan Secretary of State allows drivers to renew licensesin a number of ways, including online, in person or by mail. See the proper instructions for each below.

Online Renew your drivers license online through the MI ExpressSOS system, which you will find on the Secretary of State website. Although you can renew a standard drivers license online, you will be required to make an in-person visit to renew an enhanced license.

In Person Every eight years, you are required to renew your drivers license in person by visiting your nearest SOS branch.

By Mail After receiving the drivers license renewal notice in the mail, update your address on the form itself and send it to the location listed on the document. Complete your request by mail three weeks before the expiration date of your license.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver s License in Michigan

How do I apply for a drivers license?
If you recently completed the Graduated Driver Licensing Program in Michigan, you will be able to obtain a full driving license in the final stage once you have reached the age of 18.

For drivers who have recently moved to Michigan, you need to complete the following requirements at your local SOS office:

  • Show proof of Social Security Number (or ineligibility)
  • Show proof of legal status in the country
  • Show proof of identity
  • Show proof of Michigan residency
  • Pass a vision test and physical standards
  • Take a new license photo
  • Submit payment for any required fees

Michigan also offers an Enhanced Drivers License as a convenient document for those who travel by sea or land from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. An Enhanced Drivers License will allow you to re-enter the U.S. without issue. For drivers applying for an Enhanced Drivers License, you must complete the following:

  • Show proof of Social Security Number (or ineligibility)
  • Show proof of legal status in the country
  • Show proof of identity
  • Show proof of Michigan residency
  • Take a new license photo
  • Submit payment for any required fees

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

How do I get a hardship license?
To apply for a hardship license, you must first complete a portion of your suspension period. You can then call the Michigan Department of State to inquire about what additional steps you need to take. For more information, their toll-free number is 1-888-767-6424. You can also visit a nearby SOS branch and speak to drivers license agent.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

How do I get a replacement license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?
If you are currently stationed outside of Michigan, you have the option of requesting a drivers license replacement either online or by mail. U.S. citizens with a Social Security Number can complete this request online by using the Express SOS system. If you would like to replace your license by mail, fill out the Duplicate Driver License Application and mail it to the address on the form. Be sure to include your APO/FPO address on the application.

Your new drivers license can only be sent to the residential address on file with the Michigan Department of State.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I know if my license was mailed after it has been restored?
The best way to find out if your drivers license has been mailed out is by contacting the Michigan Secretary of State directly. You can do so by calling their toll-free number at 888-767-6424 or 888. You can also make an in-person visit to any of the Michigan SOS location. Find a MI SOS location near you using our DMV locator. For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan
How do I obtain a duplicate license?
The state of Michigan allows drivers to request a duplicatedrivers license online or a nearby SOS office.

In order to get a duplicate online, you must apply through the Michigan ExpressSOS system. You will need to have a Social Security Number and be a United States citizen

To apply in person, visit your local Secretary of State office with proof of identity. Acceptable documents may include your United States passport, marriage license, birth certificate or some form of photo ID. Photocopies will be not be accepted.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen or Mutilated Michigan Driver s License or ID Card

How do I reinstate after a revocation as a Habitual Traffic Offender?
The proper procedure to reinstate suspended drivers licenseswill depend on the offense you committed, and if your license is under suspension or revocation. To find out what particular steps you must adhere to, contact the Michigan Department of State for information about your specific case. You can reach them at 1-888-767-6424 from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

How do I reinstate my suspended license?
Whenreinstating suspended drivers license, you will need to follow the rules set forth in your suspension summary. This will include paying reinstatement fees (the standard amount is $125). You will also need to complete an Application for Driver s License Reinstatement, as well.

If you would like to request a hearing for your suspended license, you can do so by filling out a Request for Hearing form and sending it to the Michigan SOS by fax at 517-335-2190.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

How do I renew my license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?
Those in the military can renew driving licenses up to 12 months before it expires at an SOS office. However, if you are currently stationed outside the state, your renewal can be completed by mail. For more information, contact the MI DOS Out-of-State Resident Services Unit at 517-322-1473. You can also fax them at 517-322-5438, or write to them at the address below:

Michigan Department of State Out-of-State Resident Services Unit 7064 Crowner Drive Lansing, MI 48918

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Michigan

How do I replace my license if I am a non-U.S. citizen?
If you are not a United States citizen and need a Michigan drivers license copy, present the following documents at the SOS:
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Letter of ineligibility for Social Security Number

For other acceptable documents, contact the Michigan Department of State to learn more.

Otherwise, you can also order a replacement drivers license online.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I replace my license if I lost it out of state?
If you lost your license outside of Michigan, the SOS allows you to request a replacement in one of three ways: online, fax or by mail.

Online To replace DMV drivers license online, use the ExpressSOS system on the Michigan Department of State website. In order to complete the process, you must be a United States citizen with a Social Security Number.

Fax You can easily fax your replacement request by filling out the Duplicate Driver License Application and sending it to 517-322-5438. You will need to include your credit card information on the form for the replacement fee.

By Mail If submitting your request by mail, attach a check or money order to your Duplicate Driver License Application and send it to the address on the form.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

How does the DMV check my vision?
Drivers need to pass a vision test provided by the Michigan Department of State when filling out a drivers license application. If you do not meet the minimum vision standards, you will be referred to seek your eye-care doctor to provide the SOS with a vision statement. If you wear contact lenses for driving, a special notation will be made on your drivers license stating so.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

How long will I have a suspended license for not taking a chemical test?
If you refuse to submit to a chemical test, the state of Michigan will suspend your drivers license for a period of 12 months. You will need to complete all the terms of your suspension period before you are considered eligible for reinstatement.

To reinstate suspended drivers licenses, it is mandatory that you submit payment for a reinstatement fee and fill out an Application for Driver s License Reinstatement.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

How soon can I renew my driver’s license?
The state of Michigan allows drivers to renew driverslicenses up to 12 months ahead of time. However, to renew this early, you must visit a nearby SOS branch and bring the following items with you:
  • Your current MI drivers license
  • Proper payment for renewal fee
  • Glasses or contact lenses if you use them to drive

For more information: How to Renew a Driver s License in Michigan

If I file a police report, will my replacement fee be waived?
It is to the discretion of the Michigan Department of State whether or not your drivers license replacement fee is waived. Nonetheless, if you have a copy of the police report on hand, make sure to bring it with you when requesting a replacement in person. The fee for a drivers license duplicate s $9. However, this fee is subject to change without notice.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

If my drivers license has been lost or stolen, how can I get it flagged with the DMV?
The DMV might flag your license number if another driver is pulled over by the police and presents your driving license as your own. Also, a DMV clerk might suggest that you should apply for a duplicate license. However, to be on the safe side, immediately report your drivers license as lost or stolen at your nearest Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). Find a MI SOS location near you using our DMV locator.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

Is there an age limit to renew your license?
The state of Michigan has no age restrictions in place for drivers license renewal. Although you have several options available to you, drivers are required to renew their license at an SOS office every eight years. Therefore, if your last renewal was completed online or by mail, you will need to make an in-person visit for your next renewal procedure.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Michigan

What address will my replacement license be mailed to?
Your duplicate drivers license will be sent to whichever address is on file with the Michigan Department of State. If you recently moved and changed residence, you must contact the SOS at your earliest convenience to add your new address to the system. Failure to update your address on time may result in penalties. Make sure to also present proof of your new location when changing address in person.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

What are requirements for seniors to renew a driving license?
The state of Michigan imposes no special restrictions for seniors to renew their license. Like others individuals, you have the option to completedrivers license renewal in person, by mail or online. You are, however, required to renew your drivers license at a MI SOS office every eight years.

If you would like to renew by mail, send your renewal notice, along with payment for any applicable fees to the address below:

Michigan Department of State 7065 Crowner Drive Lansing, MI 48980

To renewdrivers licenses online, visit the Michigan Department of State website for proper instructions. You will need to have your drivers license number, date of birth and last four digits of your Social Security Number available.

For more information: Senior Drivers in Michigan

What are some violations that may constitute in a suspended license?
Your Michigan drivers license may be suspended as the result of violations and offenses, such as the following:
  • Failure to pay child support
  • Failure to have car insurance
  • Failure to appear in court
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Multiple traffic offenses and violations
  • Accumulation of points
  • Reckless driving
  • Driving with a suspended driverslicense

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

What are the consequences of driving with a suspended license?
If you decide to drive with a suspended driving license, not only is it illegal to do so, but you may also face the following consequences:
  • Possible jail time
  • Community service
  • A longer suspension period
  • Required completion of an alcohol awareness program
  • High fines
  • Reinstatement fees

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

What are the fees for a duplicate drivers license?
The fee to replace driving licenses in the state of Michigan is $9. This drivers license replacement fee may change without notice. When replacing your license by mail, provide payment with a check or money order. If you would like to learn about all drivers license fees, visit the MI Department of State website.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

What are the reinstatement fees I will have to pay for a suspended license?
Your MI suspended drivers license reinstatement fee depends on the offense you have committed. Generally speaking, a standard drivers license reinstatement fee is $125. This fee is subject to change without notice, therefore you should consult with the MI SOS prior to making payment.

In addition, complete an Application for Driver s License Reinstatement.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

What are the suspensions eligible for a hardship license?
In certain cases, a driver may be eligible to obtain a restricted drivers license during their suspension period. A restricted drivers license will allow you to drive to and from work, to and from school, and to and from authorized activities.

In order to see if you are qualified, you will need to complete a portion of your suspension period, and thereafter contact the Michigan Department of State at 1-888-767-6424.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

What do I need to do to get my driver’s license if I fail the driving test?
If you do not pass the road skills test on the first attempt, you are required to schedule a later date to retake it. When taking your drivers test, it will be necessary to show proof of car insurance, vehicle registration and a valid license plate for the vehicle you are using. If you have difficulty understanding the English instructions of the road skills test, drivers are welcome to bring a foreign language interpreter to assist them with translation.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

What documents do I need to get my drivers license?
When applying for your Michigan drivers license, present the documents below:
  • ONE proof of Social Security Number (or letter of ineligibility), such as your W-2 form or Social Security Card
  • ONE proof of legal status in the country, such as your United States passport or certified birth certificate
  • MORE THAN ONE proof of identity, such as your United States marriage license and photo ID card
  • TWO proofs of Michigan residence, such as a utility bill from the past 90 days and rental agreement

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver s License in Michigan

What documents do I need to present to renew my drivers license?
When renewing drivers license, you will need to have your current Michigan license on hand. If renewing online, you will be asked to enter your drivers license number. This information will also be asked to complete your request by mail. If you would like to submit your renewal request in person, have your drivers license with you during the time of your visit.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver s License in Michigan

 

What documents will I need to present to replace my drivers license?
When getting a MI drivers license replacement at an SOS office, you will need to gather documentation that proves your identity. For example, the DOS will accept the following documents:
  • United States passport
  • Canadian passport
  • Certified birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • Divorce decree
  • Photo ID

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

What languages is the written test available in?
If you need to take the written knowledge test in another language other than English, contact the Michigan Department of Stateto inquire about other available options. You can call them at their toll-free number 1-888-767-6424. Operating hours are from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You will need to take your written test at a Secretary of State office in your area.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

What penalties will I face if I do not renew my expired drivers license?
If you do not renew Michigan drivers licenses on time, you may be charged late fees and other penalties. With so many options to renew your drivers license, the state of Michigan makes it easy to choose the method that is most convenient for you. Renew online, by mail or in person. In order to properly proceed with the process, make sure to have your current drivers license available.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver s License in Michigan

What should I do if I have not received my renewed license?
In the event that you have yet to receive your renewed license, you must contact the Michigan Department of State at 1-888-767-6424 to inquire about its status. Their hours of operation are Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also make a visit to a nearby SOS branch for more information about your renewed license. If you processed your request online, bring a copy of the transaction receipt with you.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Michigan

What tests will I need to take for my drivers license?
If you are an out-of-state resident moving to the state of Michigan, you need to pass a vision test and meet physical standards. In order to be issued a MI license to drive, you must meet the minimum vision standards of the state. As for the physical screening process, you will be asked a few, simple health questions. Before obtaining your new license, you will need to take an updated photo.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

What type of noncommercial license will I need?
The state of Michigan offers two different types of noncommercial driving licenses: a full standard license and an enhanced license. If you would like to update your regular license to an enhanced license, show the below documents at a local Secretary of State office:
  • Proof of United States citizenship
  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of Michigan residency
  • Proof of Social Security Number (or letter of ineligibility)

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Michigan

When can I reinstate my license after it has been suspended?
In order to reinstate suspendeddrivers licenses, you first need to adhere to the rules set forth in your suspension period. Only after you have completed your suspension period will you be eligible to apply for a reinstated license. For information pertaining to your particular case, contact the Michigan Department of State at 1-888-767-6424.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

When will I need to renew my license?
The Department of State will mail you a renewal notice about 45 days before the expiration date on your drivers license. However, it is advisable to renew your driver’s license before it expires. You can do so up to one year before expiration at any MI DMV location near you. The Michigan SOS allows you to renew your driving license online, in person or by mail.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Michigan

When will I receive a replacement license after applying?
To find out how long it will take to receive your MI drivers license copy by mail, contact the Michigan Department of State at 1-888-767-6424. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also visit a local branch and speak with a DOS agent for further information.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Michigan Driver’s License or ID Card

Where can I check to see if my license is suspended?
If you would like to check the status of your Michigan drivers license, you can call the Michigan Department of State at their toll-free number 1-888-767-6424. You can also obtain a copy of your driving record online. Make sure to have your driver s license number available, and any other necessary information that may be asked of you.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Michigan

Where can I get a new drivers license?
To begin the process of applying for drivers licenses,stop by a Michigan Department of State office in your area. Certain documentation needs to be presented to prove your identity, Social Security Number (or letter of ineligibility), Michigan residence and legal status in the United States. You will also need to have payment on hand for your application fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver s License in Michigan

Will I be required to take a vision test for a drivers license renewal?
If your health conditions have remained unchanged since the last time you got your drivers license, then you may not need to pass a vision test. You can renew drivers license online, in person or by mail. However, if you choose to renew online, your Social Security Number must be on file with the Secretary of State. If you do not have your Social Security Number in the system, you will then be required to complete your drivers license renewal at a nearby Secretary of State office.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Michigan

Will I get a drivers license renewal notice in the mail?
Yes, the Michigan Secretary of State is required to send out a renewal notice prior to the expiration date of your drivers license. You can use this renewal notice to request aMI drivers license renewalby mail. Simply follow the instructions on the document and add your new address in the space provided. Thereafter, gather proper payment in the form of a credit card, debit card, money order or check and send it to the address listed on the notice.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Michigan