Resources

{ Banner Image } Print PDF
Share
Subscribe to Publications

Services

Michigan's New Policy on Driver's Licenses Impacts Legal Nonimmigrants

January 24, 2008

As of Tuesday, January 22, 2008, only U.S. permanent residents (green card holders) and U.S. citizens are eligible to obtain a State of Michigan driver's license.

Based on a recent Michigan Attorney General opinion (#7210), "only a resident of Michigan may be issued a Michigan driver's license." The opinion concludes that "A person who is not a lawful resident of the United States cannot be a resident of this State for purposes of obtaining a driver's license. . ." Therefore, any individual who is in the United States on a valid, nonimmigrant visa will no longer be eligible to apply for a Michigan driver's license.

At this time, it is unclear if this policy extends to renewals of a license and/or changing an address on a license. However, we would caution all foreign nationals to be aware of this new policy.

Although these individuals are no longer eligible for a Michigan driver's license, individuals from numerous countries may legally drive in the U.S. with their valid, non-commercial driver's license issued by their home country of residence. Thomas W. Linn at 313.496.7511.