Booking Your Michigan Driving Test: A Guide to Third-Party Testers

You've passed your written test, completed Segments 1 and 2, and held your Level 1 license for at least six months. The final step to earning your Michigan Level 2 driver's license is scheduling and passing the behind-the-wheel road test.

In Michigan, the Secretary of State (SOS) does not conduct road tests. Instead, all driving skills tests are administered by approved third-party testing organizations. This guide will walk you through the process of finding and booking your test.

Before You Schedule: Confirm Your Eligibility

Make sure you meet all the state's requirements before you attempt to book an appointment. For most teen drivers, this means you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have held your Level 1 Learner's License for at least six consecutive months.
• Have successfully completed Segment 2 of driver's education.
• Have completed your 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 at night) and have your signed log sheet ready.

Finding and Scheduling with a Third-Party Tester

1. Find an Approved Tester: The Michigan SOS website maintains an official, up-to-date list of all certified third-party skills testing organizations, organized by county.
2. Contact Testers Directly: You will need to contact the testing organizations directly to schedule your appointment. Most have their own websites with online booking systems or allow you to book over the phone.
3. Inquire About Fees and Services: Ask about their specific fee for administering the test and what it includes. Fees can vary between providers. You will pay the tester directly for their service.
4. Ask About Using Their Vehicle: Many testers allow you to use one of their driver training vehicles for the test (usually for an additional fee). This can reduce stress, as their cars are guaranteed to meet all state safety requirements.

Pros of Using a Third-Party Tester:

• Excellent Availability. This is the number one benefit. Third-party testers often have appointments available within days or weeks, not months.
• Flexible Scheduling. Many offer appointments on weekends and in the evenings to accommodate school and work schedules.
• Familiar Environment. If you took lessons at the same driving school, testing with a familiar instructor in a familiar area can be less intimidating.

What to Expect on Test Day

• Arrive Early: Get to the testing site at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• Bring All Your Documents: You'll need your Level 1 license, Segment 2 certificate, driving log, and the vehicle's registration and insurance.
• Vehicle Inspection: The examiner will perform a safety check on your vehicle.
• The Test Itself: The test has two parts: an off-street portion (parking, backing) and an on-road portion.
• Receive Your Certificate: If you pass, the examiner will issue you a Skills Test Certificate. Do not lose this certificate.

Final Step: Visit the SOS Office

After passing your road test, you are not yet licensed to drive alone. You must take your Skills Test Certificate, along with your Level 1 license and all your original identification documents, to a Secretary of State office to be issued your Level 2 Intermediate License. It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment for this visit.

By understanding the third-party testing system and planning ahead, you can successfully navigate the Michigan road test process and earn your driver's license.