Michigan Driver's License
The booklet, "What Every Driver Must Know," published by the Michigan Department of State, provides information. This booklet, as well as other useful information, can be found on the Michigan Department of State's web page www.michigan.gov/sos Copies are available in the International Office.
Secretary of State branch office employees are also able to answer questions or provide further assistance. Hours: 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Wednesday and 9:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M. other weekdays, except Saturday. Closest office to campus - 4205 Miller Rd. (Valley Plaza Mall - south side of Miller Road driving west towards Genesee Valley Mall)
Effective May 16, 2005 new regulations became effective for international students in J-1 or F-1 visa status. Michigan driver's license will be issued for a maximum of one year. Exchange students in the U.S. for one or two terms will not be issued a Michigan Driver's License. It is suggested that exchange students obtain an international driver's license before leaving their home country.
Fee for Michigan Driver's License is $25.00. IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS at Secretary of State office - Passport, I-20 or DS-2019, I 94, Kettering student ID, Driver's License of home country (translation required see Celia in the International Office). Proof of Michigan home address is also required -----Michigan home address is on "proof of car insurance." Application forms are available in the International Office.
The U.S. and German governments have a "reciprocal agreement" wherein German citizens who have a German Driver's License (translation required - available in the International Office) may obtain a Michigan Driver's License without written or road test (eye test required).
STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS IN THE FRONT SEAT OF AN AUTOMOBILE WEAR SEAT BELTS.
Traffic drives on the right. Speed limit on freeways is usually 70 mph in Michigan, varies from state to state. Speed limits are clearly indicated along highways and in cities. Traffic tickets for speedsters are a minimum of $95.00 for 1-5 mph over speed limit - heavy fines for additional mph and speeding in school zones and construction areas. It is illegal to pass a school bus that has stopped to load or unload its passengers (using indicators and warning lights). All vehicles in both directions must stop until the bus has moved back into traffic.
Vehicles must pull over to the side of the road and stop for ambulances, police cars, and fire trucks WITH SIRENS AND FLASHING LIGHTS.
Laws are strictly enforced against drinking and driving throughout the U.S.