To remind you to renew your driver's license, the Department of State sends a renewal notice about 45 days before expiration. The renewal notice is sent to the address listed on department records.  You may renew your driver's license at a Secretary of State office up to 12 months before the expiration date.

If there is any change in your physical or mental condition that may affect your ability to drive since you last renewed, you must come to a Secretary of State office regardless of what the renewal notice says.  Plan to renew at least two weeks before your current license expires.  Your physician may need to complete a special form to certify your physical or mental condition before your license is renewed.

A driver's license will not be renewed if your driving record shows six or more unpaid parking tickets, or if your driver's license has been suspended or revoked.  When renewing your driver's license, you must pass a vision screening test and provide your Social Security number. If you do not have an SSN, you will need to provide a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration attesting to that fact along with proof of legal presence .   A new photograph will also be taken.  You will be required to take a written test if your driver's license has been expired at least four years.

All Secretary of State offices accept cash, checks and money orders.  Credit and debit cards are not accepted, with the exception of the Discover card, which can be used at any PLUS office and SUPER!Center .

Do not let your driver's license expire unless you will no longer be driving.  Driving without a valid license is illegal.   If a driver's license expires on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the expiration date of the driver's license is extended to include the next business day before assessing a $7 late fee.  Chauffeur's licenses are not assessed a late fee.  

Note:  Your situation may differ from the explanations provided.  Please check with our Information Center at (888) SOS-MICH (767-6424) to make sure you have all the correct paperwork before going to a branch office.

All documentation is subject to Department of State approval. In some cases, document approval may not occur in the same day and may require an additional visit.