How do I get my first driver's license in Michigan?
Reviewed 2026-09-29 · Source: Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State)
Ava's answer
Michigan uses a three-level Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system for teens starting at 14 years 9 months, requiring driver's education segments and supervised driving hours. Adults 18+ complete a knowledge exam, 30 days practice, and a skills test.
- Segment 1 Driver's Ed (teens): At least 14.8 years old, complete Segment 1 classroom/behind-wheel training
- Level 1 License / Office Visit: Visit Secretary of State with documents; 18+ applicants take knowledge exam and vision test same visit
- Supervised Practice Period: Teens: complete 50 hours supervised driving (incl. Segment 2); Adults 18+: practice 30 days after passing knowledge exam
- Driving Skills Test: Pass on-road skills test; teens need Segment 2 completed first
- Level 2 and Level 3 License (teens): Level 2 at 16 with restrictions; Level 3 full license at 17 after 90-day and 12-month crash/violation-free periods
- License Issued: Full operator's license issued/mailed upon meeting all requirements
Your Michigan checklist
Tick items off as you go. Saved on this device only.
Steps
Documents to bring
Fees
We haven't verified Michigan fees for this task yet. Check the official page.
Where to go in person
Helpful services for this task
Optional, privately operated services related to first-time driver's license. Not government services, not required, and not endorsed by any agency. DMV.ai may be paid when you use them.
Find licensed providers in Michigan
Official state lists of licensed businesses. Not sponsored, not ranked, and DMV.ai isn't paid for these links.
No sponsored offers for this task and state yet. Sponsored offers appear only after identity, terms, disclosures and links pass review.
Michigan Study Guide + Ava coaching
One-time purchase · no subscription
$8.97
- Condensed study notes for your state's permit test
- Practice drills with Ava on the topics you miss
- Pass on your first try, or get your money back
Pass-or-refund: don't pass your official knowledge test on the first try and we refund you within 90 days. Terms. See what's inside. Sign-in required so your guide unlocks for your account. Not a government agency.
Related
Was this answer helpful?
Source
First-time license or ID · Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) · reviewed 2026-09-29
Limitations: Fee schedule not confirmed on pages reviewed; omitted. Requirements vary by age; confirm with the agency before your visit.
DMV.ai is independent and not a government agency. It does not file applications or collect government fees. Confirm current requirements with the official agency. Report an issue