Driving Laws in Michigan for Seniors and Older Drivers

Learn about driving restrictions and special initiatives aimed at keeping Michigan’s elderly drivers and highways safe.

There are now 1.2 million drivers in Michigan who are 65 or older, and by 2025, one in every five drivers will be 65 or older, making this the state’s fastest increasing driver demographic.

The many rules and restrictions enforced by the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) apply to drivers of all ages and stages—and the state argues that no particular requirements are imposed purely on the basis of age.

However, in the interest of keeping drivers and highways safe, the SOS accepts petitions from any person who is worried that someone is driving unsafely.

Michigan License Renewal Procedures for Senior Citizens

There are no age-related regulations for drivers.

Drivers of all ages must renew their licenses every eight years.

Renewal requires a vision exam. SOS employees will perform a free test. If the SOS demands it, the driver must have a second eye exam done by an outside ophthalmologist or optometrist, who must prepare a Vision Specialist’s Statement of Examination and conduct the exam within six months after the renewal request.

In-person renewal: If any of the following conditions apply, you must renew in person at a Secretary of State office:

You have any health issues that might impair your ability to drive safely.
At your previous renewal, you renewed online or by mail.
Your previous in-person renewal was more than four years ago, or
Your Social Security number was unable to be validated.

Renewal does not need a written exam.

Only if the SOS obtains signs of driving impairment is a road test required.

License Restrictions That Might Exist

After giving a driving test and discussing potential limits with the motorist, the SOS may impose restrictions or conditions on his or her license.

The most prevalent limitation for senior drivers is the need for corrective lenses or glasses.

Other typical regulations that the SOS may place on elderly drivers in Michigan include:

no highway driving
a second right side mirror on a car
No driving at night
Time constraints—for example, no traveling during peak hour traffic.
supports for optimal driving posture
geographical limitations, and
When driving, use a bioptic telescopic lens.

How to Request a Michigan Unsafe Driver Investigation

Requests for driver reexaminations from medical experts, law enforcement, family members, friends, or concerned individuals will be accepted by the Michigan SOS. To the degree allowed by law, all information given stays secret. Anonymous tips are not accepted.

There are two methods to ask the SOS to evaluate your driving qualifications:

Write and sign a letter that includes the driver’s name, birthday, address, or driver’s license number, as well as precise reasons for making the report.
Fill out the Request for Driver Evaluation form.

Letters and forms should be addressed to:

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

Medical forms may also be submitted to [email protected].

How to Restore a Driver’s License

See “Revocation Reviews” for information about regaining a license that has been suspended or revoked in Michigan.
How to Obtain Parking Placards or License Plates for a Disabled Driver

Drivers with reduced mobility may be awarded disability parking placards and license plates provided a qualified medical practitioner confirms the condition.

The placards and plates are provided for persons who are blind or have a condition that severely restricts their ability to walk, or who need the use of a wheelchair, walker, crutch, or other assistance equipment to move about.

In the event of a permanent handicap, the following steps must be taken:

Fill out and sign a Disability License Plate Application.
Part 2 of the application should be completed by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, chiropractor, or physician’s assistant.
Send the completed form to the SOS office listed on the form.

Learn More About Michigan Senior Driving Laws

The SOS website has a plethora of information for Michigan drivers, including explanations for driver license and car registration.

The downloadable brochure, “Michigan’s Guide to Aging Drivers and Their Families,” which contains safe driving recommendations, self-assessment exams for elders, and advice for family members who are concerned about a driver’s safety behind the wheel, is particularly appealing.