Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan

1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in Michigan?


The Michigan Secretary of State is currently in the process of offering Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses to Michiganders. Beginning October 2020, all Michigan driver’s license holders will have the option to obtain a federally compliant Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License at any Secretary of State branch. For those wanting to use their license for domestic air travel, entering federal facilities, or accessing military bases, they must have a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.

2. Is Michigan compliant with the Real ID Act?


Yes, Michigan is compliant with the Real ID Act. The Michigan Department of State issued Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state IDs in October 2020.

3. Does Michigan offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?


Yes, Michigan offers a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program. They are available at all Secretary of State branches, and applicants must bring documents that prove their identity, Social Security number, and Michigan residency.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in Michigan?


Yes, starting October 1, 2020, Michigan residents must have either a Real ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License in order to obtain a driver’s license.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


To obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan, applicants must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or lawful presence, proof of Michigan residency, proof of social security number, and two documents verifying current legal name and date of birth. These documents must be originals or certified copies with a raised seal or stamp. Acceptable documents include U.S. passport or passport card, U.S. birth certificate, certified copy of a court record issued by a court of law, U.S. Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), Tribal Identification Card, Driver’s License from another state or country, and an Immigration Registration Receipt Card (Form I-151).

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


The fees for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan vary depending on the type of license.

For a standard driver’s license, the fee is $25. For a Real ID, the fee is $45. For an Enhanced Driver’s License, the fee is $45.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in Michigan?


Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses in Michigan are valid for four years.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


Yes. In Michigan, those seeking to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License must provide documents that prove their identity, Social Security number and Michigan residency. Acceptable documents include a valid U.S. passport or passport card, birth certificate, Social Security card, permanent residence card and unexpired foreign passport with visa. Documents proving Michigan residency may include a utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement or insurance card.

9. Does Michigan accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?


Yes, Michigan accepts Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


No. The Michigan Secretary of State office does not issue Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s Licenses to people with temporary visas.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Michigan?


Yes, a person can use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Michigan.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


Yes, in order to renew a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan, an applicant must present documents proving their identity, Social Security number, and Michigan residency. Applicants must also pass vision and knowledge tests, and pay the applicable fees.

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


You can apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan by visiting a Secretary of State Service Center. When applying you will need to bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Michigan residency. Additional documents may be required.

14. Does Michigan have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?


Yes, Michigan has additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. These include proof of identity, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements, etc.), and a photo identification. Additionally, applicants must also pass a vision test and provide proof of legal U.S. presence.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Michigan?


Yes, you can use a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License to travel to Canada, Mexico, and other countries in the Western Hemisphere.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


Yes, the Michigan Secretary of State requires applicants for a driver’s license or state ID to be at least 16 years old.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


Yes, a vision test is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


Yes, there is a waiting period of 15 business days to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan?


In Michigan, Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License applications can be paid for by cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Michigan for military personnel and veterans?


Yes. The Michigan Department of State offers special considerations for active-duty military personnel and veterans. Active-duty military members and veterans may be eligible for a free Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL). The following documents are required to be eligible for the free Real ID or EDL: a valid United States Military Identification Card; a valid passport; a DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty; and any other documents that may be required by the state of Michigan.