The cost of license restoration is not merely measurable in dollars. The revocation of s person’s driver’s license in Michigan leads to significant frustration. Many people find the process of trying regain their driving privileges more daunting than losing them initially. Navigating all the details – the substance use evaluation, testimonial support letters, other paperwork, and then a hearing – can be overwhelming if you aren’t experienced with the process.
One of the most common questions people have is about Michigan driver’s license restoration fees and how much they’ll need to pay to get back on the road.
Nowadays, “transparency” is a popular phrase. Our firm is not suddenly trying to be “trendy,” because we have ALWAYS been transparent about what we charge for restoration appeals, and even publish our prices online. In exchange for that, we provide a GUARANTEE to win every driver’s license restoration and clearance appeal case we take.
If we represent you, there’s no risk; you’ll pay us once, and you WILL get your license back.
Understanding the required fees ahead of time can help you plan better so you’ll know the cost of license restoration. Regular suspended license reinstatement costs are different (and cheaper than) restoration legal fees and related charges for things like the required substance abuse evaluation and, for Michigan residents, the installation and maintenance fees of an ignition interlock unit.
Reinstatement Fee After a Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation
Reinstating a suspended or revoked driver’s license in Michigan requires payment of a standard reinstatement fee to the Michigan Secretary of State. As of 2025, this fee is $125, applicable in most cases, including suspensions due to DUI offenses, accumulation of points, or failure to appear in court.
The Michigan Secretary of State’s website enables online payments, while mail and branch office visits are alternative payment options. Extra charges might be necessary when you need to obtain a new driver’s license or identification card. These fees are different and separate from the cost of license restoration.
Being ready to pay all this before starting the reinstatement process can avoid extra delays and further headaches.
Hearing Request and Documentation-Related Expenses and the Cost of License Restoration
A formal driver’s license restoration appeal process is always required if a person’s license has been revoked for multiple DUI’s. This process has multiple steps that affect the cost of a license restoration.
To file a formal driver’s license restoration appeal, a person must submit a Hearing Request Application, a substance use evaluation (SUE) along with supporting documents, including urine test results, and testimonial letters of support just to begin the process and request a hearing.
While there is no fee to file the paperwork itself, obtaining the necessary documents involves several expenses. The biggest, of course, is the substance use evaluation and the drug test results.
In addition, there are other costs for things like a copy of your driving record (it’s currently $16), and the notarization of support letters, which may also cost a few bucks. Sending documents by mail or fax may contribute (albeit minimally) to expenses as well.
The ultimate success of your request depends on your thoroughness in gathering and properly completing all the required materials, and then being thoroughly prepared for your license appeal hearing.
Long-Term Financial Impact of Not Restoring Your License Versus the Cost of License Restoration
Postponing the restoration of your driver’s license can create substantial financial difficulties over time. People lacking a valid driver’s license have a hard time with just about everything, from getting or keeping employment to just managing life’s everyday tasks. Many jobs require that a person have dependable transportation.
Relying on alternative ways to get to work can be costly and frustrating. Because of that, some people will drive anyway, and just hope they don’t get caught.
Michigan classifies driving without a valid license (Driving While License Suspended, Revoked or Denied, also know as either”DWLS” or “DWLR,” for short) as a misdemeanor offense, which may result in a $500 fine and up to 93 days in jail for a first-time offender. Repeat offenses carry harsher penalties. On top of that, the law requires anyone who is found to be driving while his or her license is revoked to be revoked all over again for another 1 or 5 years. This is called a “mandatory additional.”
Getting your license back avoids these dangers while allowing you to regain personal and financial freedom. In that regard, the cost of a license restoration is way cheaper than the cost of dealing with a revoked license charge.
Fees for Ignition Interlock Device Installation and Monitoring
Anyone whose license has been suspended for a DUI under Michigan’s “super drunk” (High BAC) law or whose license has been revoked after repeat DUI offenses will have to install an breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) to regain restricted driving privileges. Drivers can expect to pay for the initial BAIID installation and then incur monthly monitoring fees.
Individuals must pay these fees directly to the interlock company (there are several) and continue paying them throughout the entire restriction period, which typically lasts one year. Ignoring BAIID requirements can result in your license getting suspended or revoked all over again.
If you’re getting back on the road after having been revoked, make sure you allocate funds for the required equipment and its maintenance during your driver’s license restoration process.
FAQs
Q: How Much Is the License Reinstatement Fee in Michigan?
A: As of 2025, the standard license reinstatement fee in Michigan is $125. This applies whether your license was suspended or revoked, and payment must be made before the Michigan Secretary of State will reinstate your driving privileges. Additional fees may apply if multiple suspensions exist or if you need a new driver’s license card. Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at a branch office.
Q: Do I Have to Pay for an Ignition Interlock Device?
A: Yes. The obligation to install an breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) during your restricted license period means you must pay all related expenses. Your financial responsibilities include both the initial installation and the continuous monitoring and maintenance costs of the device.
The provider receives direct payments for these expenses, which must remain current throughout the full duration of the restricted period, which usually lasts one year. License penalties may occur if BAIID requirements are not followed.
Q: What Happens If I Don’t Pay My Reinstatement or Restoration Fees?
A: Your driver’s license will stay suspended or revoked until you pay the necessary fees required for reinstatement or restoration. Driving without a valid license, even if are legally eligible for reinstatement, or eligible to file for restoration, will lead to criminal suspended or revoked license charges with financial and further license penalties. Your reinstatement or restoration request cannot be processed by the Michigan Secretary of State until you have paid all outstanding fees. To regain driving privileges in Michigan, you must first pay all of applicable fees.
Q: Can I Drive While Waiting for My License Restoration Hearing?
A: No. The law prohibits you from driving until your license has been officially reinstated by the Michigan Secretary of State.
In Michigan, operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license is a misdemeanor offense that can result in more fines and jail time, along with additional and extended suspension or revocation penalties. Driving can only resume after receiving official authorization from the Michigan Secretary of State.
Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for a Driver’s License Restoration Case?
A: You are not required to hire a lawyer for a driver’s license restoration case, but having one is extremely helpful. Restoring a license requires compliance with very rigid documentation protocols and specific deadlines. You must prove your case by what the law defines as “clear and convincing evidence.” When you hire a Michigan driver’s license restoration lawyer, like us, we’ll make sure that your documents are complete, your evidence is powerful, and your hearing preparation is thorough. Remember, included in the cost of a license restoration is our firm’s guarantee to win every case we take.
Contact Jeffrey Randa and Associates
Anyone whose license has been revoked for multiple DUI’s will have to go through a lot to get it back. The law intentionally makes it that way. Beyond all the work and preparation of evidence, expenses for reinstatement fees, drug testing, and documentation fees can accumulate rapidly.
Jeffrey Randa and Associates provides Michigan residents with the clarity and confidence they need to successfully navigate the driver’s license restoration process. Call our office for a free consultation – done over the phone, right when you call – to receive guidance on your journey to regain independence.
We are very friendly people who will be glad to answer your questions and explain how this all works. Let’s get you back on the road!
