Michigan DMV Document Checklist

What to bring to the Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) for REAL ID, driver license, learner permit, vehicle registration, and title transfer visits.

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Michigan handles everything through Secretary of State branch offices, and nearly all visits are scheduled online. Walk-in availability is limited, so book a branch visit before gathering your documents. Many renewals and registrations can be finished entirely online or at a self-service station without a branch trip.

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Michigan REAL ID document checklist

Identity Documents

  • Proof of identity (valid passport, certified birth certificate, or another accepted identity document)

Residency Documents

  • Two proofs of state residency (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or other accepted documents)

Social Security / Legal Presence

  • Proof of Social Security number or an accepted alternative (Social Security card, W-2, or paystub showing the full number, where accepted)

Conditional Documents

  • Name change document (marriage certificate, court order) if your current name differs from your identity document (if applicable)

Other

  • Appointment confirmation, if your office requires or recommends one (if applicable)
  • Payment for the applicable fees (check accepted payment methods before you go)

Michigan learner permit document checklist

Identity Documents

  • Proof of identity (valid passport, certified birth certificate, or another accepted identity document)

Residency Documents

  • Proof of state residency (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or another accepted document)

Social Security / Legal Presence

  • Proof of Social Security number or an accepted alternative (Social Security card, W-2, or paystub showing the full number, where accepted)

Other

  • Completed application form (many states let you start it online)
  • Appointment confirmation, if your office requires or recommends one (if applicable)
  • Payment for the applicable fees (check accepted payment methods before you go)

Michigan vehicle registration checklist

Identity Documents

  • Proof of identity (valid passport, certified birth certificate, or another accepted identity document)

Vehicle Documents

  • Vehicle title or current ownership/registration document
  • Proof of insurance that meets your state minimums
  • Completed registration application

Conditional Documents

  • Smog, emissions, or safety inspection certificate, if your state or county requires it (if applicable)
  • Bill of sale from the private sale, gift, or inheritance paperwork (if applicable)
  • Odometer disclosure, required for most vehicles under 20 years old (if applicable)

Other

  • Payment for the applicable fees (check accepted payment methods before you go)

Official Michigan sources

Requirements change. Confirm the final list with the Michigan Department of State before your visit.

Taking the Michigan written test?

Documents get you in the door; knowledge gets you the permit. The Michigan test has 50 questions and you need 40 correct (80%).

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Michigan document checklist FAQ

What documents do I need for a REAL ID in Michigan?

The Michigan Department of State generally asks for one proof of identity (such as a valid passport or certified birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number, and two proofs of Michigan residency. Bring a name change document if your current name differs from your identity document, and confirm the exact accepted documents on the official Secretary of State REAL ID page.

What should I bring to the Secretary of State for a learner permit?

First-time applicants in Michigan typically bring proof of identity, proof of residency, a Social Security document or accepted alternative, a completed application, and the fee. Minors usually need a parent or guardian to sign. The written test has 50 questions and you need 40 correct to pass, so practice before you go.

What do I need to register a vehicle in Michigan?

Commonly the vehicle title or ownership document, proof of insurance that meets Michigan minimums, a completed registration application, and payment for fees. Private sales usually add a bill of sale and an odometer disclosure, and some areas require inspection or emissions certificates.

Do I need an appointment at the Secretary of State?

Many Secretary of State offices accept walk-ins, but appointments shorten the wait and some services require them. Check the official scheduling page before your visit and bring your confirmation if you book one.

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