SOS - New Michigan Resident

New Michigan Resident

Welcome to the Department of State's web site for new Michigan residents. To assist you with driver license, vehicle registration, and voter registration information, please select a topic below. Additional information is in our FAQ section.

REAL ID-Compliant Driver's License and ID Information
Beginning Oct. 1, 2021, Michigan residents will need to present a REAL ID-compliant document to fly within the United States and enter certain federal facilities under federal law.

Michigan Secretary of State offices now offer REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and ID cards, which are marked with a gold circle with a star inside.
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Under Age 18
New Michigan residents under age 18.
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Age 18 and Over
New Michigan residents 18 and over.
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Step-by-Step Guide for Obtaining a Driver's License
A useful guide outlining the steps needed for a Michigan Driver's License.
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Guide for Migrant Farmworkers and their Families
This guide serves as a reference for migrant farmworkers about driving safely and Michigan traffic laws. The guide does not include every Michigan traffic law. It is meant as a resource to provide greater understanding by the migrant community and increase safety on the roads.
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Un Manual para Trabajadores Agrícolas Migrantes y sus Familias
Este es un manual de referencia para los trabajadores agrícolas migrantes sobre las leyes de tránsito para manejar de manera aseguranza en Michigan. Este manual no incluye todas las leyes de tránsito de Michigan.
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Driver License Fees
The following is a summary of commonly requested information regarding driver's license fees.
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Guide to Titling & Registering a Vehicle Purchased from an Individual, a Dealership, or a Family Member
A helpful guide outlining the steps to take when buying a vehicle from a dealership, a family member or an unrelated individual.
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Title, Registration, License Plate Fees
The following contains commonly requested information regarding vehicle registration and title fees.
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Title
New Michigan residents must immediately title and register their vehicles at a Secretary of State office.
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Registration
New Michigan residents must immediately title and register their vehicles at a Secretary of State office.
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Insurance
Owners of passenger vehicles, vans, and light trucks must purchase Michigan no-fault insurance before registering their vehicle.
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Step-By-Step Guide to Registering to Vote in Michigan
A helpful guide outlining the steps needed to register to vote in Michigan.
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Michigan Voter Information Center
Voters can use the Michigan Voter Information Center to: View your sample ballot for the upcoming election, track your absentee ballot, verify your voter registration, find your polling place, contact your local election official, find answers to frequently asked questions.
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Watercraft and Recreational Vehicle Requirements
Title and registration requirements for mopeds, recreational vehicles, off-road vehicles, snowmobiles and watercraft; and information for part-time and non-Michigan residents.
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