Department of State, partners conduct clinic in Traverse City to help residents regain driving privileges

The Michigan Department of State (MDOS), Department of Attorney General and community partners hosted a driver’s license restoration clinic in Traverse City last Friday as part of the statewide Road to Restoration program to help Michigan residents determine what steps they need to take to restore their driver’s license.

“The Road to Restoration clinics bring support and services directly to residents across the state, meeting people where they are to make government work for them,” said Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

"We are giving Michiganders the support they need to understand our new laws and get safely back behind the wheel.”

The Road to Restoration clinics are staffed by MDOS, Department of Attorney General and volunteer attorneys who assist residents to identify what actions they can take to restore their license. Residents are advised to bring a copy of their driving record to the clinic for staff to review and provide recommendations. When possible, staff may provide participants with services on site.

The clinic in Traverse City was hosted by Michigan Works!

The Road to Restoration clinics are made possible by numerous partner organizations, including DTE Energy, Miller Canfield Law Firm, Detroit Justice Center and United Way, as well as location partners who provide the space for the clinics.

On Oct. 1, 2021, new state laws lifted license suspensions for drivers who failed to pay tickets or court fines or failed to appear in court for certain non-moving and other violations. In the months following, MDOS canceled infractions on the driving records of more than 350,000 Michiganders. However, many individuals must take additional measures before their licenses are restored. MDOS mailed letters to all residents affected by the law change, explaining their current status and outlining additional action they must take before they can resume driving. The aim of the clinics is to assist Michiganders in navigating the steps they must still take to reinstate their licenses, which may include outstanding fees, a driving test, or other actions.

Future clinics are scheduled for Saginaw (Sept. 28), Lansing (Oct. 12) and Benton Harbor (Oct. 14). Michiganders who believe they may qualify to have their license reinstated or who have a question about their driving history can get more information or sign up for the next clinic near them at Michigan.gov/RoadtoRestoration.

Michiganders are strongly encouraged to register for an upcoming clinic online to ensure they are able to obtain information about their driving record. Walk-ins to the clinics will also be accepted.