Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?
If you are 16 or 17, you will be required to successfully complete a motorcycle training course. However, if you are 18 or older, you have the option to take this course or pass a motorcycle riding test.

Upon completing the course, you must take your completion card to a nearby SOS office in order to have your skills test waived. You do not need to provide your own motorcycle for the motorcycle safety program.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?
Unlike most states, Michigan allows drivers with a motorcycle license to decide whether or not they want to wear a helmet. If you choose not to wear one, you must meet the following criteria:
  • You are at least 21.
  • You have had a motorcycle endorsement on your license for two years or more or you have taken a motorcycle safety course.
  • You have a minimum of $20,000 in first-party medical benefits.

If you are younger than 21, you must wear a helmet at all times.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?
Yes, commercial drivers can renew drivers licenses online through the Michigan Express SOS system. To be qualified for online renewal, you must:
  • Be a United States citizen.
  • Have completed your last renewal process in person.

However, if you have an enhanced CDL license, you will not be allowed to complete your renewal online.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Can I take the DMV written test online?
The state of Michigan requires drivers to complete their written knowledge test in person. If you are an out-of-state CDL driver who is relocating to MI, you will be required to take this test if you have a hazardous material endorsement on your license. When taking your test, be ready to present proof of identity in order to proceed with the process.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?
With an interstate CDL drivers license, you are legally authorized to drive across state lines. However, you must adhere to the road rules and regulations of the state you are driving to and wherever your final destination is. In addition to your Michigan drivers license, all necessary paperwork pertaining to your car registration and car insurance should be on hand at all times.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?
If you have a moped, the state of Michigan allows you to apply for a moped drivers license. Although you do not need to title a moped, you are required to have it registered. A scooter can be classified as either a moped or a motorcycle. Whether or not you must apply for a motorcycle license will depend on the specific type you have.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?
Yes, in both the Level 1 Learners License stage and Level 2 Intermediate License stage, you are required to take different portions of a drivers ed course. When getting drivers permit, you must complete Segment 1 of a driversed course that is approved by the SOS. If you are advancing to an intermediate license, you must complete Segment 2 of a drivers ed program.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?
If you are an eligible veteran, you may request to have this special designation on your MI ID card at your local Secretary of State branch. If you prefer to make your request by mail, you will need to wait until it is time to renew your ID card in order to not have any additional fees apply.

The distinction on your ID card will be made with a red, printed “Veteran” located at the bottom.

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?
To begin applying for your Michigan CDL license, complete the following steps at your local SOS office:
  • Present proof of Social Security Number (or ineligibility)
  • Present proof of legal status in the country
  • Meet medical and physical requirements and submit a medical examiner s card (or waiver)
  • Pass a vision test
  • Pass a written knowledge exam
  • Pass a CDL road skills test
  • Pay any necessary fees

If you are applying for a commercialdrivers license with a HAZMAT endorsement, you will need to take a background check and have your fingerprints collected at an approved Transportation Security Administration (TSA) office.

You may also apply for an enhanced CDL license, as long as you are either a United States citizen or a Michigan resident. Additionally, there must be no convictions or offenses on your driving record.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?
The state of Michigan has a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program in place for teenagers obtaining a drivers license for the first time. The program consists of the following stages:
  • Learner s License
  • Intermediate License
  • Full Michigan Drivers License

To apply for aMI learners permit, you will be required to do so in person at a local MI SOS office. You must be at least 14 years and nine months old, and you must also meet the following requirements:

  • Pass a vision test
  • Complete Segment 1 of drivers ed (By passing Segment 1, you will be exempt from taking a written knowledge exam)
  • Complete a Level 1 application
  • Present proof of identity

When advancing to an Intermediate License, you must have held your learners permit for at least six months and be at least 16 years old. You will then be required to complete Segment 2 of drivers ed and pass a road skills driving test. A full drivers license is issued when you are at least 17 years old and have held your Intermediate License for at least six months with no violations.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?
When getting yourMI motorcycle license, you must visit your local SOS branch and be prepared to complete a set of requirements, such as the ones below.

For those 18 and older:

  • Pass a motorcycle skills test (if you have not submitted proof of successfully completing a motorcycle safety course)
  • Pass a written knowledge exam
  • Present proof of identity and other documentation
  • Have payment ready for applicable fees

For those who are 16 or 17, to receive a Temporary Instruction Permit:

  • Hold a Level 2 or 3 Graduated Drivers License
  • Complete a motorcycle safety course
  • Pass a written exam
  • Pass a vision test
  • Parent s signature on the application
  • Have payment ready for applicable fees

With a Temporary Instruction Permit, you are not authorized to ride during nighttime hours or with passengers. Additionally, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 18 present to supervise you.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

How do I get a duplicate ID card?
You can replace your ID card in one of two ways, either online or in person. To request a duplicate ID card online, use the MI Express SOS system. When renewing at nearby Secretary of State office, show proof of your Social Security Number (or ineligibility), as well as proof of legal status in the country.

If you are currently out of state, you can replace your ID online or by mail to the following address:

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

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?
Once you have held onto your Level 1 Learners License for six months, you can then apply for your Level 2 Intermediate License. You will be required to hold your intermediate license for at least six months before you can obtain a full drivers license in the state of Michigan.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

How do I renew my ID card?
In Michigan, you have three options to renew an identification card. See what they are below, so you can decide which is most convenient for you.

Online You can renew online through the MI ExpressSOSsystem if you are a United States citizen with a Social Security Number.

In Person Renew at your local SOS office by bringing your current Michigan ID card, showing proof of SSN (or ineligibility) and having payment ready for the renewal fee.

By Mail

To renew by mail, you must submit your renewal notice to the address on the letter and submit payment by credit card, check or money order.

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?
You must keep your medical report up to date by visiting a FMCSA-certified medical examiner. Thereafter, present your Medical Examiner s Certificate (DOT Medical Card) to the MI DOS. To learn more, contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 517-853-5990.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?
To renew a motorcycle license in Michigan, you have the option to do so online, in person or by mail.

In Person You are required to complete a motorcycle license renewal in person every eight years at any branch office. Payment can be made with debit card, credit card, cash, check or money order.

By Mail Tocomplete the process by mail, you must send out your signed renewal notice and payment for any fees to the listed address on the document. Make sure to submit your request by mail at least three weeks before your license expires.

Online

To renew online, visit the MI SOS website and follow the instructions for the ExpressSOS system. Your last renewal must have been conducted in person in order to complete an online renewal.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?
If you are currently stationed outside the state, you can submit an application for a motorcycle license endorsement by completing the following:
  • Successfully pass a motorcycle safety course
  • Submit your MSF completion card to the Michigan Department of State

Contact the Michigan Department of State, Out-of-Resident Services unit at 517-322-1473 for further information about the process, including how you can send your card by mail and thereafter receive your new license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?
Before you can apply for an Intermediate License, you must have held your Michigan learners permit for at least six months. You must also be at least 16 years old. Your Level 2 Intermediate License will require you to pass a road skills test, hold this license for six months and have no moving violations on your record. Once you have fulfilled these requirements and have reached the age of 17, you will then be eligible for a full license with no restrictions.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

How long will it take to get my new ID card?
The length of time it will take to get ID card may depend on the method in which you choose to apply. To find out more, contact the Michigan Department of State at 1-888-767-6424. Hours of operation are from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also ask in person at your local SOS office where a drivers license agent will be ready to assist you.

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?
The state of Michigan requires CDL drivers to renew their license every four years. You will have up to a year to renew your commercial driving license prior to its expiration date. When renewing your CDL license, you can complete the process:
  • Online Visit the MI ExpressSOS website.
  • By Mail To the address on your renewal notice
  • At a local SOS office Must be renewed in person every eight years

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?
For those who are out of state and need to obtain a duplicate ID card, you can do so online or by mail. If you would like to submit your request by mail, first call the Department of State Out-of-State Resident Services Unit at 517-322-1473. The Department will send you an application to fill out and mail back to:

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

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?
To obtain a CDL driving license in the state of Michigan, you must be at least 18 years if applying for an intrastate license. If you intend to operate a vehicle across state lines, you must be at least 21 for the interstate CDL license.

To apply for a hazardous materials endorsement, the minimum age is 21. Before getting a CDL license with a hazmat endorsement, you will be required to complete a background check and have your fingerprints collected at a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) branch in your area.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?
If you are at least 16, you can start applying for a motorcycledrivers license in the state of Michigan. You will first be issued a Temporary Instruction Permit that does not allow you to drive at night or with a passenger. A full motorcycle license endorsement can be obtained if you are at least 18.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

What are the available commercial license endorsements?
In Michigan, there are six different types of CDL endorsements. You can apply for any of the following listed below:
  • P To operate a passenger vehicle that carries 16 or more individuals
  • N To operate a tank vehicle that holds liquids or liquefied gases
  • H To operate a vehicle with hazardous materials
  • T To operate double- or triple-trailers
  • S To operate a school bus
  • X This code is placed on a license when the CDL driver has obtained both tank and hazardous endorsements

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?
The Michigan Department of State has a set list of fees for identification cards. Fees are subject to change without notice. Below are the costs for both standard state ID cards and enhanced state ID cards:
  • New ID Card (up to 65 years) – $10
  • New ID Card for seniors/blind individuals Free of charge
  • Renewed ID Card – $10
  • Renewed ID Card for seniors/blind individuals Free of charge
  • Replaced ID Card – $10
  • Corrected ID Card – $10
  • New Enhanced ID Card (up to 65 years) – $30
  • New ID Card for seniors/blind individuals $20
  • Renewed Enhanced ID Card – $30
  • Renewed Enhanced ID Card for seniors/blind individuals – $20
  • Replaced Enhanced ID Card – $30
  • Replaced Enhanced ID Card for seniors/blind individuals – $20
  • Corrected Enhanced ID Card – $30
  • Corrected Enhanced ID Card for seniors/blind individuals – $20

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?
If you have obtained your driving permit, you must abide by the following license restrictions:
  • You are only permitted to operate a vehicle with a licensed parent in the passenger seat or an adult who is 21 or older.

If you have obtained your intermediate license, you must abide by the following license restrictions:

  • You are not permitted to operate a vehicle between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to and from work, driving to and from an approved activity or have a licensed parent/individual who is 21 or older in the car with you.
  • You are not permitted to operate a vehicle with more than one passenger who is 21 or younger unless these passengers are family members you re driving to and from work, driving to and from an approved activity or have a licensed parent/individual who is 21 or older in the car with you.

There are no restrictions for a full license. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?
When getting a license to drive commercial, there are federal or state medical requirements a driver must abide by. You will need to visit a licensed physician and submit a medical examiner s card (or waiver) to your local SOS office. Depending on whether you intend to operate a CDL vehicle across intrastate lines or interstate lines, these medical/physical requirements may vary.

You will also need to complete a CDL Self-Certification form certifies whether you intend to operate Non-Excepted Interstate, Excepted Interstate, Non-Excepted Intrastate or Excepted Intrastate.

  • For information about interstate requirements, contact the Michigan Trucking Association at 517-321-1951.
  • For interstate, you will need to get in touch with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 517-853-5990.
  • If you intend to operate a school bus, call the Michigan Department of Education at 517-373-6388.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?
If you are a driver under the age of 18 who was recently issued a traffic ticket fine, you may face severe penalties and consequences. Every citation you receive will be marked on your driving record, and you will be contacted by the Secretary of State. You may be handed a warning letter, or your driving abilities may be reassessed. The more traffic violations on your record, the greater the consequences.

For more information: Traffic Tickets and Violations in Michigan

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?
In order to operate a three-wheel motorcycle, you must follow the standard procedure of obtaining aMI motorcycledriving license. You will need to pass two tests, including the following:
  • A written knowledge test
  • A road skills test

To learn more about the rules and regulations of riding a three-wheel motorcycle, take a look at the MI SOS Supplementary Information for Three-Wheel Motorcycles pamphlet.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?
To obtain your learning permit in the state of Michigan, you must present identification documents that show proof of Social Security Number (or ineligibility), legal presence in the country, identity and Michigan residency.

See below for more specifics:

  • Must present ONE proof of Social Security Number (or ineligibility). Proof of ineligibility can be a letter from the Social Security Administration.
  • Must present at least ONE proof of legal presence
  • Must present ONE or TWO documents of identity verification
  • Must present at least TWO documents with your Michigan address and name

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?
If you are getting a motorcycle license, you may be asked to show the following documents:
  • ONE proof of your Social Security Number (or ineligibility)
  • AT LEAST ONE proof of your lawful presence in the United States
  • MORE THAN ONE proof of your identity
  • AT LEAST TWO proofs of your Michigan residency

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?
The exams you are required to take for aMichigan motorcycle driving licensedepend on your age and if you are an out-of-state resident. For example, if you are 18 or older, you will be required to pass a motorcycle skills test (if you have not submitted proof of successfully completing a motorcycle safety course). You must also take a written knowledge exam. Those who are 16 or 17 must take a motorcycle safety course, and pass both a vision and written exam.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?
If you have a first-time DUI conviction on yourMI CDL license, you will lose your driving privileges for 12 months. By law, the state of Michigan requires CDL drivers to notify their employers of any conviction within 30 days. To reinstate your license, you will need to complete all the terms of your suspension period, which includes paying any required fees.

For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?
Individuals who do not drive can submit an ID card application insteadThis government-issued document can be used as proof of identity for a number of situations and places. For example, your identification card can be used to enter government buildings, travel by air within the United States or to open a bank account.

In Michigan, you can get an ID card by visiting a local Secretary of State office.

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?
When getting drivers permits, you may need to take a Michigan SOS written knowledge exam, which consists of 40 questions. In order to find out about the passing grade, contact your local Michigan Secretary of State office for more information. If making an in-person visit, bring proof of identification and be ready to submit an application fee.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?
As part of your process to get a learning permit, the state of Michigan requires potential drivers to complete and pass the following tests:
  • A vision exam
  • Segment 1 of drivers education (By passing Segment 1, you will be exempt from taking a written knowledge exam)

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?
When you apply for a CDL license, depending on the CDL group and endorsement you are applying for, you may be required to take one or more of the following:
  • A general knowledge written test
  • An air brake knowledge written test (if your vehicle has air brakes)
  • A combination vehicle written test
  • A driving skills test

A driving skills test is compromised of a Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test, a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test and an On-Road Driving Test. For more information: Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?
A standard or enhanced Michigan ID card is valid for four years. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail prior to its expiration date. Once it is time to renew your ID card, you will have the option to do so:
  • Online
  • In person
  • By Mail

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?
You can apply for a Michigan ID card at any Secretary of State branch in Michigan. When requesting an ID, you will be required to present proof of identification, proof of legal status, proof of Social Security Number (or letter of ineligibility) and Michigan residency. You will also need to pay the ID card fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a Michigan Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?
If you are less than 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian sign your application and provide consent. You must complete this application at the time of your permit appointment. Proof of identity and completion of Segment 1 drivers ed will also be required.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Michigan