Driver's License or Michigan ID for International Students
International students are eligible to receive a Michigan driver’s license during their studies.
If you do not need a driver's license, but want extra identification, you can get a State of Michigan ID card.
Step 1: Gather your documents
The Driver’s License and Michigan ID are issued by the Secretary of State Office.
To apply for a Driver’s License and/or Michigan ID, students must bring the following documents:
- Valid Passport
- Form I-20
- Form I-94 – available online
- Two documents that show current local U.S. address, such as bank statement, tuition bill, class schedule
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Letter of Ineligibility (Form SSA L-676) for those who do not have SSN – read DHS article for explanation
- Driver’s License from your country (if applicable)
- If you have a driver license from your country, bring it with you and make sure it is completely translated in English.
Step 2: Study for the test
Study for the written and road sign tests using the booklet What Every Driver Must Know.
Step 3: Go to the Secretary of State office
Apply for your Driver's License and/or Michigan ID in person at the Secretary of State Branch Office in Saginaw.
- Address: 4404 Bay Rd, Saginaw, MI
- Phone: 888.767.6424
- Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm; Wednesday only, 11:00am-7:00pm
- Website:http://www.michigan.gov/sos
Visit office:
- Schedule an appointment online (shorter wait times) or
- Walk-ins are available (but longer waiting times)
How to you get to the office?
- Go on your own (friend, cab, etc) or
- The International Programs office has scheduled Friday trips to the Secretary of State office. Contact the office to sign-up (intlstu@m-y-c.net)
How much will my first license or ID cost?
- A standard state ID is $10.
- A standard first-time license is $25.
Remember to bring these documents with you:
- Social Security number/card
- OR
- Letter of in-eligibility (Form SSA L-676)
- You need this letter if you do not have a Social Security number
- Valid Passport (Unexpired)
- I-20
- I-94 form
- Two documents that show your current local U.S. address (Example: bank statement, tuition bill, a class schedule, etc.)
- Driver’s License from your country:
- If you have a driver license from your country, bring it with you and make sure it is completely translated in English.