Michigan License Renewal: A Step-by-Step Guide

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The Secretary of State (SOS) oversees the Michigan license renewal process.

The state will send a renewal notice at least 45 days before expiration. This renewal shares how you can renew your license (online, in-person, or by mail).

Your license expires on your birthday every four years. Otherwise, if you’re under 21 years old, the license expires on your 21st birthday. You must renew in person at least every eight years.

You may renew a Michigan license up to 12 months before its expiration. Waiting until it expires incurs a $7 late fee. If your license is expired beyond four years, then you’ll retake a written and driving test. A suspended license requires you to get it reinstated before renewing (see our suspended license guide).

Michigan license renewals are done:

  • In-person
  • Online
  • Mail-in

The following shares a quick and easy guide to renewing your driver’s license in Michigan.

How to Renew Your MI Driver’s License

A valid MI driver’s license is required if you drive on state roads and highways. Michigan auto insurance is also required if you plan to operate your own vehicle. The renewal process doesn’t take long if you have documents ready, and follow the steps below.

In-Person License Renewal

You will do the following to renew in person:

  1. Go to an MI DMV location
  2. Show your Michigan driver’s license or official ID
  3. Provide your social security number
  4. Pass a vision exam
  5. Get your photo taken
  6. Pay the renewal fee
    1. Standard: $18
    2. Enhanced: $38

Congratulations! You’ve successfully renewed your Michigan driver’s license.

Online License Renewal

Online license renewal is marked on the renewal notice and has requirements like:

  • The last renewal was done in person
  • Have a standard driver’s license
  • Haven’t changed your address within the last ten days
  • Your license is valid and current with the state
  • Your social security number is on file

You will do the following to renew online:

  1. Go to ExpressSOS
  2. Follow the on-screen prompts
  3. Enter your personal information
    1. SSN
    2. License #
    3. Date of birth
    4. Eye color
  4. Submit a payment
  5. Print your confirmation

You’ll receive your documents by mail in the coming weeks.

Mail-in License Renewal

Mail-in renewals are available if your last renewal was done in person, the state has your SSN on file, your personal information hasn’t changed, and your license is valid. This provides an opportunity to renew when out-of-state such as during an extended vacation, military duty, or schooling.

You will:

  1. Review and sign your renewal notice
  2. Include a check/money order for the renewal fees

Send your mail-in renewal to:

Michigan Department of State

7064 Crowner Drive

Lansing, MI 48980

Active military members’ license is valid for 30 days after a leave or discharge. Their spouses and dependents can renew on their behalf in-person, online, or by mail, following the same procedures.

Out-of-state MI residents can renew online or by mail by following the same steps. They may request a temporary driver’s license extension, too. Those outside the state for longer than 180 days should contact the MI SOS for information regarding their renewal.

Become a Better Michigan Driver

We are looking for more information and guides to become a better Michigan driver? Check out our MI DMV topics, browse our DMV directory, or get active in the community!