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Report a pothole

MDOT maintenance crews fill potholes with asphalt.
Department of Transportation

Report a pothole

  • Fill out the online form.
    Preferred reporting method

  • Call 888-296-4546.
    Voicemail only

  • Damage claim

    Learn about the damage claim process and access the form.
  • Tips

    Tips for avoiding potholes and damage to your vehicle.

Online pothole form

All fields are required, unless labeled as (optional).

State trunkline map

Unsure whether a road is a state trunkline? Check the map first, then report the pothole using the online form.

MDOT region map

Use MDOT’s region/county map to determine the correct region.

How potholes form in Michigan

Potholes are created when snow and ice melt as part of Michigan's seasonal freeze-thaw cycles. When moisture seeps into the pavement and freezes, it causes the ground to expand and push the pavement up creating a gap. As temperatures rise, the ground returns to normal level creating a void or gap between the pavement and ground below it. When vehicles drive over the gap, the pavement weakens leading to a pothole.
From cracks to potholes: How they form