Question

How can I renew my Michigan driver’s license?

You can renew a Michigan driver’s license online, in person, by mail, or at a self-service station. Each method has its own procedure, and you’ll need to provide the necessary documents for renewal.

How to renew a driver’s license in person? 

You’ll probably need to use this option sooner or later because Michigan law mandates you renew the license in person every 12 years. These renewals happen at the branch office of the Secretary of State. 

• Visit the local Secretary of State (SOS) branch. Sometimes, you may need an appointment. 
• Bring a valid ID, like your license. Bring these documents if you are renewing or upgrading to a REAL ID. 
• Wear your corrective lenses if you need them to drive. 
• Update your address and other needed information. 
• Be ready to retake the written and driving exams if your license is suspended for over four years. 
• Take a vision test. 
• Take a new license photo. 
• Pay the renewal fees using cash, check, money order, or credit/debit cards. 
• You will get a temporary paper license if they do not print on-site. It will reach your address within three weeks. 

How to renew a driver’s license by mail?  

You can renew your Michigan driver’s license by mail only if you are eligible. Here are the steps to follow if you are eligible: 

• If you get a renewal notice in the mail, fill it out and sign it. You should receive the notice around 45 days before your license expires.   
• Update if your address has changed.   
• Pay the renewal fee by money order or check.  
• Mail your renewal application at least three weeks beforehand. Do not drive if your new license has not arrived by the expiration date. Driving without a valid license is illegal in the state.   

How to renew your Michigan driver’s license online? 

If you are renewing your Michigan driver’s license online, you’ll have to pay an online renewal charge of $18, plus $9 for any updates to the information and $7 for late renewals. Here are the steps to follow: 

• Visit the ExpressSOS page.   
• You have to provide proof of identity. Expect to provide your driver’s license number, the last four digits of your SSN, date of birth, and your eye color.   
• Finish the steps.  
• Use credit or debit cards to pay the renewal fee. 

How to renew a driver’s license at a self-service station? 

You can renew at a self-service station if you’ve renewed your license in person within the last eight years and don’t need to modify any information. You’ll require the following: 

• The driver’s license number.  
• A renewal fee of $17. There will be a $3.95 service fee and a 2.3 percent processing fee if you pay via a credit or debit card.