Losing your license after a DUI can derail your freedom, your job, and your daily life.
So, how do you get your license back after a DUI in Michigan?
To get your license back after a DUI in Michigan, you must complete the revocation or suspension period, submit a substance abuse evaluation, provide proof of sobriety, and attend a hearing (if required). You’ll also pay a $125 reinstatement fee.
With decades of experience handling Michigan OWI cases, I’ve helped countless drivers restore their licenses—even after multiple offenses. Here’s exactly what you need to know.
What Triggers License Suspension or Revocation in Michigan?
After a DUI (legally referred to as OWI) in Michigan, the Secretary of State (SOS) automatically enforces penalties, which include:
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- Suspension: Temporary loss of driving privileges
- Revocation: Complete termination of license, requiring formal restoration
| Offense Type | License Action | Waiting Period |
|---|---|---|
| First OWI | 30-day suspension + 150 days restricted license | No hearing required |
| High BAC (≥0.17%) | 45-day suspension + 320 days restricted with interlock | No hearing required |
| Second OWI (within 7 years) | 1-year revocation | Restoration hearing required |
| Third OWI | 5-year revocation | Restoration hearing required |
Step-by-Step Guide to License Restoration After a DUI in Michigan
Step 1: Wait the Mandatory Revocation Period
You can only apply once per year, so the timeline is critical. Waiting periods after a DUI in Michigan are:
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- 1 year after a second offense
- 5 years after a third or subsequent offense
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You cannot request early restoration before this period ends.
Step 2: Undergo a Substance Abuse Evaluation for DUI in Michigan License Restoration
Michigan requires a state-approved substance use evaluation before your DUI in Michigan hearing.
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- Must be conducted within 90 days of filing
- Includes a 10-panel drug screen
- Must show no use of alcohol or controlled substances, including recreational marijuana
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Failure to complete this step is the #1 reason license restoration applications are denied.
Step 3: Gather Your Supporting Documentation for DUI in Michigan License Restoration
Your restoration case after a DUI in Michigan relies on clear and convincing evidence that your alcohol or drug problem:
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- Is under control, and
- Is likely to remain under control
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Gather the following:
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- At least 3–6 letters of support from friends, family, coworkers, or clergy
- Proof of sobriety, such as AA/NA meeting logs or treatment completion
- Court compliance records if applicable
- A copy of your driving record
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Step 4: File for a Hearing with the Secretary of State
Submit the following to the Administrative Hearings Section (AHS):
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- Substance Abuse Evaluation
- Request for Hearing Form
- All letters and documentation
- $125 reinstatement fee
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*Hearings can be held in person or via video conference.
Step 5: Attend the Driver’s License Restoration Hearing
A hearing officer will evaluate your case based on:
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- Your sobriety timeline (minimum 12 months is expected)
- Your insight into substance use issues
- The credibility of your documentation
- Your testimony and future risk level
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If granted a restricted license, you’ll often need to:
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- Install an ignition interlock device
- Drive only to approved locations (e.g., work, school, treatment)
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Step 6: Comply with Restrictions and Reapply for Full Reinstatement
After 1 year of violation-free restricted driving, you may request full license reinstatement. Violating any conditions during the restricted period can restart the process.
Can a DUI in Michigan License Restoration Hearing Be Denied?
Yes. Common reasons include:
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- Failing to submit all required documentation
- Inconsistent or vague sobriety letters
- Failing to demonstrate “clear and convincing” proof of sobriety
- Continued use of mind-altering substances, including marijuana
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Can I Appeal a Denial of My DUI in Michigan License Restoration?
Yes. If your request is unfairly denied, you can appeal the decision to your local circuit court. This process requires a strong legal brief and formal legal argumentation—working with an attorney is essential.
What Is a Restricted License After a DUI in Michigan?
A restricted license allows limited driving privileges while your full license is still revoked. You may be allowed to drive:
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- To and from work or school
- To court-ordered treatment or counseling
- To medical appointments
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For High BAC or repeat offenders, an ignition interlock is mandatory.
Can You Be Disqualified for Marijuana Use?
Yes. Michigan law considers any mind-altering substance, including legal or medical marijuana, disqualifying during the restoration process.
Even if marijuana is legal for recreational use in Michigan, using it while applying for license restoration can cause automatic denial.
Timeline to Restore a License After DUI in Michigan
Restoring a license after a DUI in Michigan typically takes 6 to 24 months. The timeline depends on the severity of the offense, state laws, completion of DUI programs, payment of fines, and installation of an ignition interlock device. Drivers must meet all reinstatement conditions set by the DMV.
| Offense Count | Minimum Sobriety Period | Hearing Required? | Earliest Reinstatement |
|---|---|---|---|
| First (non-High BAC) | No formal restoration needed | ❌ No | After 30–45 days + fees |
| First (High BAC) | Ignition interlock required | ❌ No | After 45–320 days |
| Second DUI | 1 year | ✅ Yes | After 1-year revocation |
| Third+ DUI | 5 years | ✅ Yes | After 5-year revocation |
Call D.G. Moore Law to Restore Your License After a DUI in Michigan
License restoration in Michigan is not automatic—it’s a legal process that requires documentation, discipline, and strategic presentation. At D.G. Moore Law, we guide clients through every step of the process and fight for their second chance on the road.
Call 269-808-8007 today for a free consultation
We’ll help you build a compelling case, avoid common mistakes, and regain your driving freedom.
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