Great Lakes State Driver: Your Complete Guide to a Michigan Driver's License

Earning a driver's license in the Great Lakes State is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the vibrant city of Detroit to the scenic shores of the Upper Peninsula. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Michigan's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the SOS office confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Under 18): The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Michigan has a comprehensive GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: Segment 1 Driver's Education and the Level 1 Learner's License

The journey in Michigan begins with driver education.

• Eligibility: You must be at least 14 years and 8 months old to enroll in a state-approved Segment 1 driver education course.
• Course Requirements: The course must include 24 hours of classroom instruction, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and 4 hours of observation.
• Applying for the Level 1 License: Upon enrolling in Segment 1, you can apply for your Level 1 Learner's License.
  • Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the SOS office, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security number, and two proofs of Michigan residency.
  • Visit an SOS Office: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
    • Submit your application and all required documents, including your Segment 1 certificate.
    • Have a parent or legal guardian present to provide written consent.
    • Pay the required license fee.
    • Pass a vision screening.
  • Receive Your Level 1 License: Once everything is processed, you will be issued your Level 1 Learner's License.

Rules of the Road with a Level 1 License:

• You must hold the license for a minimum of six months.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed parent, guardian, or designated adult 21 or older.
• You must log 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. This must be documented and certified by your parent or guardian.

Step 2: Segment 2 Driver's Education and the Road Test

• Segment 2: After holding your Level 1 license for at least three months and logging 30 hours of driving, you must complete a 6-hour Segment 2 driver's ed course.
• The Road Test: After completing Segment 2 and holding your Level 1 license for six months, you are eligible to take your road test with a state-approved third-party testing organization.

Step 3: The Level 2 Intermediate License

After passing your road test, you can apply for your Level 2 license at an SOS office.

GDL Restrictions on a Level 2 License:

• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or accompanied by a parent/guardian.
• Passenger Restrictions: You are not permitted to have more than one passenger under the age of 21, unless they are immediate family members.
• Cell Phone Ban: You are prohibited from using a mobile phone while driving (Kelsey's Law).

Step 4: The Level 3 Full License

At age 17, after holding the Level 2 license for at least six months and being crash- and violation-free for 12 consecutive months, you will automatically be upgraded to a Level 3 full license. All GDL restrictions are lifted.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Michigan license, the process is more direct.

1. Visit an SOS Office: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID.
2. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP).
3. Practice Driving: You must practice with a licensed adult for at least 30 days.
4. Take the Road Test: After the 30-day practice period, you can take your road test with a third-party tester.
5. Get Your License: Once you pass, you'll take your certificate to the SOS office to be issued your license.

New to Michigan? Transferring Your License

If you move to Michigan and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Michigan license.

• Make an appointment at an SOS office.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in the Great Lakes State.