How to get a Michigan Driver's License
- Michigan Driver's License Guidelines
- How to Prepare for the Written Exam
- Required ID and Paperwork
MI Driver's License Rules and Requirements
Find out the steps to get your drivers license, pass your DMV written test, replace your out-of-state license and the required paperwork to bring to the DMV office to get your driver's license.
Try Sample Test!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.
Get your MI Driver's Permit
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.
The minimum age to apply for the road test is 16; 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 skills 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.
Prepare for the Written Knowledge Test
All new drivers are encouraged to study for this driver education exam so you don't miss the opportunity to get your learners permit as soon as you reach the approved age. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the DMV Exam - Take the Michigan practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
New Michigan 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 the written exam and driving skills test. A Temporary Instruction Permit will be required to take the driving skills test.
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.
Required 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, you will receive your new:
- Restricted Driver's License (16 to 18 years of age) valid for 4 years.
- Full Driver's License (18 years of age and older) valid for 4 years.
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.
