Steps to Restore Your Driver’s License in Michigan

Losing your driver’s license in Michigan can feel like a serious setback. Whether it was taken away due to a DUI, unpaid tickets, or too many points, the road to getting it back might seem confusing. Fortunately, Michigan offers a clear process for reinstating your driving privileges—as long as you know what to expect and how to prepare.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to restore your driver’s license in Michigan, step by step. From reviewing your driving record to preparing for a hearing, we’ll walk you through the process so you can get back on the road legally and with confidence.

1. Understand Why Your License Was Suspended or Revoked

Before anything else, you need to determine why your license was suspended or revoked. This information affects the steps you’ll need to take.

Common reasons for license suspension or revocation in Michigan include:

• DUI or OWI charges
• Too many points on your record
• Driving without insurance
• Failure to pay traffic tickets or court fines
• Failure to appear in court
• Medical conditions that impact your ability to drive
• Defaulting on child support

If your license was suspended, the state has temporarily removed your driving privileges. On the other hand, a revocation means your license has been canceled and you’ll need to go through a formal hearing process to get it reinstated.

2. Check Your Michigan Driving Record

The first actionable step is to obtain a certified copy of your driving record from the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). This document tells you exactly why your license was suspended or revoked and what you’ll need to do to fix it.

You can request your record:

• Online at the Michigan SOS website
• By mail
• In person at a local SOS branch

Once you have this document, review it carefully. It will outline any unpaid fines, required classes, or revocation terms that apply to your case.

3. Satisfy All Legal Requirements First

Next, you must take care of any legal obligations listed on your driving record. Without completing these steps, the state won’t even consider your reinstatement request.

This may include:

• Paying court fines or traffic tickets
• Completing a suspension period
• Attending a DUI or substance abuse program
• Finishing community service
• Resolving any pending criminal charges

If you’ve been ordered to attend classes or counseling, be sure to keep proof of attendance and completion. You’ll need it later.

4. Request a Driver’s License Appeal Hearing (If Revoked)

If your license was revoked—which is common after DUI or multiple serious offenses—you must request a Driver’s License Appeal Hearing through the Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight (OHAO).

Here’s what that process looks like:

a. Submit the Hearing Request Packet

Download and complete the official form (Request for Hearing). It must be mailed to the address provided in the instructions.

b. Prepare Required Documents

The more thorough your packet, the better your chances. Include:

• A recent Substance Use Evaluation
• At least 3–6 months of clean drug and alcohol test results
• Support letters from friends, family, or community members
• Proof of AA/NA meeting attendance (if applicable)

These documents prove to the state that you’re committed to making better choices.

5. Get Ready for Your Appeal Hearing

Once your hearing is scheduled, it’s time to prepare. This is your chance to prove to the hearing officer that you are sober, responsible, and ready to drive safely.

What are they looking for? Several key things:

• Sobriety – Usually, they expect at least 12 months without drugs or alcohol
• Insight – You must take responsibility and show understanding of your past behavior
• Stability – This includes steady employment, housing, and support systems
• Support – Reliable testimonials from people in your life carry weight

Most people find that hiring a Michigan license restoration attorney improves their chances significantly. Why? Because lawyers know what hearing officers want and how to structure your case to match it.

6. Install an Ignition Interlock Device (If Required)

If you are granted a restricted license after a DUI-related revocation, you will likely be required to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID).

Here’s what that means:

• You must have it installed by a state-approved provider
• The device prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected
• You’ll need to follow all reporting and maintenance requirements
• Tampering or missed reports can lead to a revoked license again

Although it may seem like a hassle, it’s a crucial step in proving your readiness to drive again.

7. Pay All Reinstatement Fees

After fulfilling all your obligations and (if required) winning your hearing, it’s time to pay the reinstatement fee. In Michigan, the fee is usually $125, and it can be paid online, by mail, or in person.

Don’t skip this step. Until your fee is processed, your license is still not valid—even if the hearing went in your favor.

8. Receive a Restricted or Full License

Depending on your history, you’ll be issued either a restricted or full license.

• A restricted license only allows driving to specific places, like work, school, or medical appointments.
• A full license restores your normal driving privileges.

Your hearing officer’s decision letter will tell you which license you’ve been granted and what your next steps are.

9. Follow the Rules and Stay Compliant

After you get your license back, it’s crucial to follow the terms of your reinstatement. You worked hard to get here—don’t risk losing it again.

That means:

• Don’t get any new traffic violations
• If you’re required to stay sober, stick to it
• Attend any follow-up hearings or re-evaluations
• Keep your ignition interlock device in good standing
• Report any address or employment changes to the SOS

10. Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Start gathering evidence early – Don’t wait until the last minute
• Avoid any kind of trouble – One new charge can derail everything
• Be honest in your hearing – Officers can sense insincerity
• Stay organized – Keep all records, letters, and test results in a folder
• Ask for help – This is one area where professional legal guidance is worth the cost