How to get a Michigan Driver's License
Find out how to get a new MI driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this Michigan DMV guide from the MI Secretary of State.
Michigan Driver's License Rules
Under MI DMV guidelines, you must be 16 years of age to obtain a Michigan driver's license.
All applicants need to be familiar with the Michigan Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
Teenagers under age 18 are required to successfully meet the requirements of Michigan's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program before they can be licensed. This includes the state's written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
To apply for the road test, you must have held a Level 1 Learner's License for at least six months, successfully completed Segment 2 of an approved driver education program, and logged 50 hours (10 at night) of supervised behind the wheel training. Once you have completed all of the above, you must pass the road skilss exam and a vision test to receive your Level 2 Intermediate license.
If you are age 18 or older, you are not required to take driver education, although you must take the full - written and road - test plus the vision test.
New MI Residents
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain a Michigan driver's license upon establishing a permanent residence in MI. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
There is no written exam or road skills testing required to change a valid license from another state or Canada to a MI driver's license, however you will need to pass the vision test.
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than 4 years, you will be required to take a written exam.
International Drivers
If you are converting a license from a country other than Canada or Germany, you must take the full - written and road - test plus the eye test.
Paperwork
Before you head to the Michigan DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your new driver's license will be valid for up to four years and expires on your birthday. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
Michigan Driver's Manual |
