Driver's License and State Personal Identification Card
Driving in Michigan
It is legal for citizens of most countries to drive in Michigan using their home country driver's licenses. An international driving permit is not required. More information about this is at
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/reciprocity_chart_20508_7.pdf
Driver's License
To obtain a Michigan Operator License, there are several rules and regulations that must be followed. For example, you must pass a written test, a road sign test, and a vision test before you get your license.
The first step is to prepare for the written test and road sign test by studying the booklet What Every Driver Must Know. There are special regulations for people under 18 years old.
After you have studied for the written test and the road test go to any Michigan Secretary of State Office to take the tests. The office closest to campus is accross from the University Pavilion
Flint Downtown
408 S Saginaw St
Flint 48502
810.767.7993
Requirements
IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
You will need to show proof of a Social Security account number, or a letter of ineligibility; proof of legal presence in the U.S., and proof of identidy. Most international students use a valid, unexpired foreign passport, a valid, unexpired U.S. Visa (citzens of Canada are exempt), and a stamped, unexpired form I-94. The Identification Requirement Sheet lists other acceptable identification.
PLEASE NOTE THAT the State of Michigan does require you to have a Social Security number in order to obtain an Operator License. However, you may obtain a letter from the Social Security Adminsitration confirming that you are ineligible to have a Social Security number. See the State of Michigan Social Security Number Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
PROOF OF RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS:
You will need at least TWO documents that shows your name and your Michigan residence address. Most international students use a utility bill or a land-line phone bill. (Cell phone bills are not acceptable). You may also use bank statements, or school transcripts less than two years old.
PERMIT FEE: $25.00 that must be paid with cash, check or money order.
The Road Test
PRACTICE PERIOD: After you pass the written test and receive a temporary instruction permit, you are required to wait for a 30-day practice period before taking the road test. However, if you have in your possession a Driver's License from your country, the 30-day practice period will be waived. The foreign license must be translated into English unless the parts of the license that list the name, date of birth, country of issue, issue date, type of license and expiration date are in English. See translation requirements here.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ROAD TEST: You must also have a passport and a valid registration for the vehicle to be used in the road test, along with proof of its insurance. The vehicle must be in good mechanical condition.
PREPARATION: The Road Skills Study Guide
LOCATION: Road tests are given by third party companies certified by the Michigan Department of State. You can get a listing of these companies from any Secretary of State Office. The state does not regulate fees for the road tests, so be sure to call several places to compare costs.
After you pass the road test, you will receive your Michigan driver's license. More information can be found on the Michigan Department of State's web page. Secretary of State branch office employees are also able to answer questions or provide further assistance.