What you need to do to renew in Michigan
Michigan lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Secretary of State office. Which method you can use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and what type of license you hold. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, but some situations require an in-person visit.
Your Michigan license is valid for four years if you are under 65, or two years if you are 65 or older. You can start the renewal process up to six months before your expiration date. If your license has already expired, you will need to renew in person at a Secretary of State office.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan driver's licenses expire every four years for drivers under 65, and every two years for drivers 65 and older.
- You can renew online through the Secretary of State website if your license is still valid and you have not had certain violations or medical suspensions.
- Mail renewal is an option if you meet the same requirements as online renewal and prefer not to use the internet.
- In-person renewal at a Secretary of State office is required if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, or if you have had a suspension or medical hold.
- You will need a valid form of identification and proof of your current Michigan address to renew, regardless of which method you choose.
Renewing online through the Secretary of State website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. Go to the Michigan Secretary of State website and look for the driver's license renewal section. You will create an account or log in if you already have one, then answer questions about your current license and personal information.
You are may be able to access to renew online if your license is still valid, you have not had a suspension or revocation in the past, and you do not have any medical holds or restrictions that need to be reviewed. You will also need to provide a valid email address and answer security questions to verify your identity. The fee is paid by credit or debit card during the online process.
After you complete the online renewal, your new license will be mailed to your address on file. The process usually takes one to two weeks from the time you submit. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal follows the same may be able to access rules as online renewal. You must request a renewal form from the Secretary of State office, fill it out by hand, and mail it back with the required documents and fee payment.
To start a mail renewal, call the Secretary of State at 888-767-6424 or visit a local office to pick up the renewal form in person. You will need to include a check or money order for the renewal fee, a copy of your proof of address (such as a utility bill or lease), and your current license or a copy of it. Mail the completed form and documents to the address provided on the form.
Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — typically three to four weeks from the time the Secretary of State receives your form. If you are close to your expiration date, online renewal is the safer choice.
Renewing in person at a Secretary of State office
In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, or if you have had a suspension, revocation, or medical hold. You will also need to renew in person if you want to change your address, name, or other information on your license.
Bring your current license, proof of your Michigan address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return). If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
You can walk into any Secretary of State office during business hours. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online through the Secretary of State website, which can reduce your wait time. The renewal is completed on the spot, and you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your new license is mailed to you.
Documents and fees you will need
The renewal fee in Michigan is $25 for a four-year license if you are under 65, or $15 for a two-year license if you are 65 or older. You pay this fee regardless of which renewal method you choose.
For any renewal method, you will need proof of your current Michigan address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the past 60 days.
If you are renewing in person, you will also need to bring your current license and proof of your Social Security number. If you are renewing online or by mail, you will provide this information through the form or website instead of bringing physical documents.
What happens if your license has expired
If your Michigan license has expired, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a Secretary of State office in person to renew. You will need to bring the same documents as for an in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of address, and proof of your Social Security number.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Michigan, even if you have submitted a renewal process. If you are stopped by police, you can show proof that you have applied for renewal, but this does not may provide you will avoid a citation. Renew as soon as possible after your license expires.
Scheduling an appointment and finding office locations
The Secretary of State website has a tool to find the nearest office and check current wait times. Many offices are busier on certain days and times, so checking ahead can help you plan when to visit.
You can schedule an appointment online for most Secretary of State offices. Appointments are not required, but they can significantly reduce your wait time. If you prefer to walk in without an appointment, go early in the day or on a weekday if possible, as offices tend to be less crowded at those times.
Some Secretary of State offices have limited hours or are closed on certain days. Check the website for the specific office you plan to visit before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Michigan license before the six-month window?
No, Michigan does not allow renewal more than six months before your expiration date. You can start the renewal process once you are within six months of expiration. If you try to renew earlier, the system will not accept your request.
What if I have moved out of Michigan but still have a Michigan license?
You cannot renew a Michigan license if you no longer live in Michigan. You will need to get a license from your new state instead. If you are temporarily out of state but still a Michigan resident, you can renew online or by mail as long as you have a valid Michigan address on file.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
If you renew online or by mail, your current photo will be used on your new license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a Secretary of State office. Some people choose to do this if their current photo is several years old or if they are unhappy with how it looks.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Online renewal usually takes one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks. In-person renewal is completed on the spot, and you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you.
What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?
You will need to visit a Secretary of State office in person. Bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of your address, and proof of your Social Security number. The office will issue a replacement license and process your renewal in one visit.