Michigan Driver’s License Renewal: How Long Do You Have Before It Expires?

Renewing your Michigan driver’s license doesn’t have to be stressful! This guide will walk you through the entire process, making it straightforward.

When Should You Renew Your Michigan Driver’s License?

If you are under 21, your license expires on your 21st birthday. For everyone else, renewal is required every four years.

You can renew up to 12 months before the expiration date. Michigan sends a courtesy reminder about 45 days before your license expires.

Is There a Grace Period in Michigan?

No, Michigan does not have a grace period for expired licenses. Driving with an expired license is considered driving with an invalid license, which can lead to serious penalties.

A first-time offense may result in a fine of up to $500 and 93 days in jail. Repeated offenses carry harsher consequences.

Ways to Renew Your Michigan Driver’s License

You have three options for renewing your license:

• In Person
• By Mail
• Online

However, in-person renewal is required if:

• You are upgrading to a REAL-ID
• Your last renewal was done by mail or online
• You requested a duplicate license in the last four weeks
• You changed your address in the last ten days
• You have health changes that may affect your driving ability
• You do not have a Social Security Number on file
• Your license has been expired for over four years

Renewing Your License by Mail

If your renewal notice allows mail renewal, follow these steps:

1. Complete and sign the renewal notice sent to you 45 days before expiration.
2. If your address has changed, update it in the designated section.
3. Pay the renewal fee using a check or money order.
4. Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your license expires. If you don’t receive your new license before expiration, do not drive, as it is illegal to drive without a valid license.

Note: If you have changed your name, you must renew in person, even if your notice says you can renew by mail.

Renewing Your License Online

To renew online, you must be a U.S. citizen who last renewed in person at a Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office.

1. Visit the ExpressSOS renewal page.
2. Provide proof of identity, including:
   • The last four digits of your Social Security Number
   • Driver’s license number
   • Date of birth
   • Eye color (as listed on your license)
3. Complete the renewal steps online.
4. Pay fees using a debit or credit card.
5. Your new license should arrive within three weeks. If it does not arrive before expiration, do not drive.

Renewing Your License In Person

If your last renewal was by mail or online, you must visit an SOS branch office to renew in person.

1. Locate and visit a Michigan Secretary of State branch office. Some locations may require an appointment.
2. Bring:
   • Your current license or other valid ID
   • Documents required for REAL-ID (if applicable)
   • Corrective lenses (if required for driving)
   • Any information that needs updating, such as a new address
3. Take a vision test.
4. Have a new photo taken.
5. Pay the required fees using cash, check, money order, or a Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card.
6. If the office does not print licenses on-site, you will receive a temporary paper license, and your new license will be mailed within three weeks.

Important: If your license has been expired for more than four years, you must retake the written and driving tests.

Can You Renew a Suspended License?

No, you cannot renew your license if it has been suspended or revoked. You also cannot renew if you have three or more unpaid parking tickets.

If you changed your name, update it with the Social Security Administration at least three weeks before renewing.

Do You Need a REAL ID?

Starting October 1, 2021, a REAL ID will be required for air travel and entry into certain federal buildings. If you do not need these privileges, you can continue using a standard driver’s license.

However, a REAL ID can simplify travel and access to government facilities.

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