USA Michigan Driver License

Michigan Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Looking to apply for, renew, or transfer a Michigan Driver’s License? This 2025 guide will help you navigate the process through the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office.

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How to Get a Driver’s License in Michigan

Step 1: Determine Your License Type

The most common is:

• Operator’s License (Class O) – for standard passenger vehicles

Other types include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL – Class A, B, C)
• Motorcycle Endorsement (CY)
• Graduated License Levels 1–3 (for teen drivers)

Step 2: Bring Required Documents

To apply for a standard or REAL ID license, you need:

• Proof of identity and legal presence (e.g., U.S. passport or birth certificate)
• Social Security number (e.g., SS card, W-2, pay stub)
• Two documents proving Michigan residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)

Step 3: Pass Required Tests

First-time applicants must complete:

• Vision screening
• Written knowledge test
• Driving skills test (after learner’s permit or driver training)

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Michigan Teen Licensing: Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

Teens under 18 follow a 3-tier GDL system:

1. Level 1 License – At 14 years, 9 months with parental approval and driver’s ed enrollment
   • Must log 50 hours of supervised driving (10 at night)
2. Level 2 License – After passing road test and holding Level 1 for at least 6 months
   • Restrictions on nighttime driving (no driving 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. unless accompanied)
3. Level 3 License – Full privileges at 17 with a clean record for 12 months

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Michigan

New residents must transfer their license immediately upon establishing residency.

To transfer:

• Visit a Michigan SOS branch
• Present valid out-of-state license
• Provide ID, SSN, and proof of Michigan residency
• Vision test required
• Written and driving tests may be waived if your license is valid and unexpired

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Renewing Your Michigan Driver’s License

Renewal options:

• Online at Michigan.gov/SOS
• In person at a branch office
• By mail (if eligible)

Michigan licenses are typically valid for 4 years, and renewal notices are mailed 45 days in advance.

Note: Upgrading to a REAL ID requires an in-person visit with additional documentation.

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Michigan REAL ID – Gold Star License

Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID to fly domestically or enter federal facilities.

To get a REAL ID:

• Visit a branch office in person
• Bring documents proving identity, SSN, and Michigan residency
• REAL ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner

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Michigan Driver’s License Fees (2025)

License Type	Fee (Approx.)
Operator License (Class O)	$25.00
Graduated License Levels 1-3	$25.00
Motorcycle Endorsement	$16.00
Commercial License (CDL)	Varies
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)	$45.00
Duplicate or Replacement License	$9.00

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Michigan Secretary of State Services

• Driver’s license issuance and renewals
• Learner’s permits and GDL licensing
• Out-of-state license transfers
• REAL ID and Enhanced License upgrades
• Motorcycle and CDL licensing
• Online services and document uploads
• Name or address updates

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. birth certificate or passport
• Social Security card or acceptable tax document
• Two documents proving Michigan residency
• Current out-of-state license (if applicable)
• Driver’s ed completion certificate (for teens)

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For the latest updates, online services, or appointment scheduling, visit the official Michigan Secretary of State website.