Drivers who move to Michigan must immediately apply for a Michigan license, which is valid for up to four years and expires on the driver's birthday. You must be at least 21 years old to obtain the required endorsement to drive vehicles carrying hazardous materials.

1) If you currently have a valid hazardous materials endorsement on your out-of-state license, you do not need to obtain a federal background record check when applying for a Michigan license. This requirement will change on May 31, 2005 when all drivers will be required to obtain a federal background record check before they may receive a hazardous materials endorsement.

Learn more about the requirements for a Michigan driver's license at www.Michigan.gov/sos.

2) If you do not have a hazardous materials endorsement on your out-of-state license and wish to apply for one on your Michigan license, you must obtain a federal background record check before the endorsement can be issued. The TSA will send you written notice once your background check is completed.

If possible, apply for your federal background record check at least 45-60 days before you move to Michigan. Although TSA believes most applicants will receive a response within 30 days, you may want to allow time for mailing and unexpected delays. To learn more about the Hazardous Material Threat Assessment Program, visit the TSA Web site.

The TSA approval letter verifies that you have passed the background check. This approval is good for five years from the date the letter was issued. You must present the TSA approval letter at the Secretary of State office when you apply for your hazardous materials endorsement.

The length of time remaining on your TSA approval letter must be valid for the entire period of your new Michigan license. If you have received a TSA approval letter prior to applying for a Michigan license, and the amount of time remaining on the approval is less than four years from your last birthday, you must reapply for the federal background record check before a hazardous materials endorsement can be issued.

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