License Renewal for Seniors in Michigan: What You Need to Know

As Michigan’s older population grows, particularly among drivers aged 65 and older, the state continues to address the challenges of keeping both senior drivers and roadways safe. Nearly one-quarter of Michigan’s 7.7 million drivers are 65 or older, and that number is projected to grow alongside the state’s aging population.

With these changes come increased concerns about age-related impairments affecting driving ability. This article outlines Michigan’s provisions for older drivers, including renewal procedures, license restrictions, and safety programs designed to protect seniors on the road.

Michigan’s Driver License Renewal for Older Drivers

While Michigan does not have special rules for drivers based on age, the state does have standardized rules for license renewals that apply to all drivers, including seniors.

When Must Michigan Seniors Renew Their Driver’s Licenses?

In Michigan, all drivers, regardless of age, must renew their driver’s licenses every four years. Your license will expire on your birthday, and you can renew it up to one year before it expires and up to four years after. However, late fees may apply if you renew after the expiration date.

Do Michigan Seniors Need to Take a Vision Test for Renewal?

If you are eligible to renew your driver’s license online, by mail, or at a self-service station, you do not need to take a vision test. However, if you renew your license in person at a Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office, you will need to pass a vision test. This test is free and conducted by SOS personnel.

If needed, a Vision Specialist’s Statement of Examination from your optometrist or ophthalmologist will be required. This exam must be done within six months of your renewal request.

Do Seniors Need to Renew Their Driver’s License In-Person?

While most renewals can be done online, by mail, or at a self-service station, seniors must renew in person every 12 years to update their photograph and other personal information. You might also be required to renew in person if:

You have health changes that could affect your ability to drive safely.
You renewed your license online, by mail, or at a self-service station for your last two renewals.
It’s been 12 years since your last in-person renewal.
The Department of State cannot verify your Social Security number.

When Do Older Michigan Drivers Need to Take a Written or Road Test?

In Michigan, older drivers are not required to retake a written exam or driving test based on age alone. However, if the Secretary of State (SOS) believes a medical condition (physical or mental) may impair your driving ability, you could be required to take a reexamination. This could include a road test. Drivers who have been involved in multiple accidents or a fatal crash may also be required to retake the driving test.

Possible License Restrictions for Older Michigan Drivers

If the SOS determines that a senior driver may be unsafe to drive, they can place restrictions on the driver’s license. Some common restrictions include:

Glasses or corrective lenses required while driving.
Restrictions on freeway driving.
No nighttime driving or limitations to certain hours of the day (e.g., no driving during rush hour).
A requirement to use an additional right-side mirror.
Geographic area restrictions, such as only being allowed to drive within a certain neighborhood or along specific routes.

Requesting a Driver Evaluation for an Unsafe Driver

In Michigan, anyone (including family members, medical professionals, law enforcement, and others) can request an evaluation of a driver’s fitness to drive if they are concerned about safety. This includes:

Writing a letter to the SOS or
Completing a Request for Driver Evaluation (form DA-88), which includes specific details about the driver’s health and the reasons for concern.

You can submit the form or letter by email to [email protected], fax it to 517-335-2189, or mail it to:

Michigan Department of State
Traffic Safety Division
P.O. Box 30810
Lansing, MI 48909-9832

The SOS keeps the requester’s identity confidential to the extent permitted by law, but anonymous reports are not accepted.

Getting a License Reinstated in Michigan

If the SOS suspends or revokes your driver’s license due to a medical condition or another issue that affects your ability to drive safely, you may be able to have your license reinstated. You will need to provide a medical statement or a vision test result from your doctor to verify that it is now safe for you to drive.

For detailed instructions on reinstating your license, visit the SOS’s reinstatement review page.

Disability Parking Placards and License Plates in Michigan

Michigan issues disability parking placards and license plates for drivers who have mobility impairments. To qualify for a disability parking placard or plate, you must have a condition certified by a licensed medical practitioner that significantly limits your ability to walk, such as:

Severe arthritis or neurological conditions.
Conditions that require you to use an ambulatory aid (e.g., a wheelchair, walker, or crutch).
Conditions that cause severe cardiovascular issues or lung disease.

How to Apply for Disability Parking Placards or Plates

To apply for a disability parking placard or plate, you must complete an application and have your health care provider sign off on part two. If applying for a free parking sticker, your healthcare provider must complete part three of the application.

Submit your application by mail to:

Michigan Department of State
Internal Services Section
P.O. Box 30764
Lansing, MI 48918

Please note that temporary placards are valid for six months and cannot be renewed. If you still need a placard after six months, you will need to apply again.