How to Get Your Michigan Permit License

Complete Segment 1 driver education

Michigan's graduated licensing program starts with Segment 1: classroom instruction plus behind-the-wheel training through an approved provider, completed before you can apply for a Level 1 learner's license.

• Segment 1 completion certificate

Apply for your Level 1 learner's license

Available starting at 14 years 9 months old, with written parent or legal guardian consent. Pass both sections of the knowledge test — Operator and Signs, 25 questions each, 80% required on each — plus a vision screening.

• Parent/guardian consent
• Segment 1 completion certificate

Log supervised driving practice

Build a logged record of supervised driving practice, including a required block of nighttime hours, always under the direct supervision of a licensed adult, before moving on to Segment 2.

• Supervised driving log

Complete Segment 2 driver education and advance to Level 2

Segment 2 adds further classroom instruction and an observed driving evaluation. Passing it and the required road test moves you to a Level 2 license, which carries passenger and nighttime driving restrictions.

• Segment 2 completion certificate

Hold Level 2 violation-free, then advance to Level 3

After holding a Level 2 license for the required period without traffic convictions, you become eligible for a full, unrestricted Level 3 license, typically around age 17.

Visit a Secretary of State office, or start online

Adult applicants skip Michigan's Segment 1/Segment 2 driver education requirement entirely. Since July 2025, the knowledge test can be completed remotely through KnowTo Drive, a webcam-proctored option, instead of visiting an SOS office in person.

Pass both sections of the knowledge test

The Operator section and the Signs section are each 25 questions, scored independently, and each requires 80% correct to pass — whether you test online or in person.

Pass the vision screening and road test

Complete a vision screening and an on-road driving evaluation at an SOS office as the remaining steps toward a full license.

Receive your full license

Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing — Michigan's graduated licensing restrictions apply specifically to applicants who start the process before turning 18.