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How to get a driver's license in Michigan as an immigrant

Everything a new arrival in Michigan needs to know, from driving on a foreign license to the documents the DMV accepts from non-citizens. Facts are quoted from official sources.

Quick answers

Drive on a foreign license?
Visitors from treaty countries may drive on a foreign license printed in English (or with translation); visitors from non-treaty countries also need proof of legal presence.
Deadline after moving
Not stated in official sources
License exchange without tests
Not stated in official sources
License without immigration status
No
No SSN?
Provide proof of SSN; if ineligible, bring an SSA-L676 ineligibility letter less than one year old.

Driving on a foreign license

Visitors from treaty countries may drive on a foreign license printed in English (or with translation); visitors from non-treaty countries also need proof of legal presence.

If your country is not on the list

Foreign licenses count only as proof of driving experience; testing rules for foreign license holders were not confirmed.

Foreign driver's licenses are proof of driving experience only and can't be used as proof of legal presence or identity. www.michigan.gov

Documents for non-citizens

Examples of accepted immigration documents:

  • Permanent Resident Card (I-551)
  • Employment Authorization Document (I-766)
  • Expired immigration document with I-797 Notice of Action
  • Other immigration documents showing legal status (not B1/B2 visas or WB/WT stamps)
Proof of legal presence: One document required; originals only, no copies. www.michigan.gov

Social Security number

Provide proof of SSN; if ineligible, bring an SSA-L676 ineligibility letter less than one year old.

An SSA-L676 letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration must be presented. www.michigan.gov

Proof of residency

Two documents proving Michigan residency; electronic copies accepted.

Proof of residency: Two documents required; electronic copies are accepted. www.michigan.gov

Step by step

  1. Gather proof of SSN (or SSA-L676 letter), legal presence, identity and two Michigan residency documents.
  2. Pass the knowledge and road sign test (free at a Secretary of State office or online for $6.50).
  3. Pass the vision test and get a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) at a Secretary of State office ($25, valid 180 days).
  4. Complete at least 30 days of supervised driving with a licensed adult.
  5. Pass the driving skills test at an authorized driver testing business (fees set by the business).
  6. Get your license at a Secretary of State office ($25 standard, $45 enhanced).

Fees

TIP permit $25; standard license $25; enhanced license $45.

Pay the $25 TIP fee www.michigan.gov

Prepare for the knowledge test Exam languages in Michigan

Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV before your visit. This is not legal advice.