Department of State Brings Free Driver's License Restoration Clinics Back to Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan residents now have the opportunity to restore their driver's licenses, thanks to the Michigan Department of State's Road to Restoration program. Partnering with public and private organizations, the state will host free driver's license restoration clinics in Traverse City on August 10 and Alpena on August 12. This initiative follows changes in state law that now make many residents eligible for license restoration.
Clinic Details and Services Provided
Traverse City
- Date: August 10
- Location: Michigan Works! Traverse City, 1209 S Garfield Ave. #C, Traverse City
- Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (walk-ins accepted from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Alpena
- Date: August 12
- Location: Alpena Events Complex (APlex), 701 Woodward Ave., Alpena
- Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (walk-ins accepted from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Pre-registration for both clinics is available at Michigan.gov/R2R or by calling 211.
- Personal Assistance: Expert staff and volunteer attorneys will provide one-on-one consultations to review individual cases and guide them through the process of getting back on the road.
- Comprehensive Services: Along with legal advice, the clinics will help in clearing outstanding fines and offer Secretary of State office services, such as written driving tests.
- Enhancing Mobility: The restoration of driver's licenses can greatly enhance mobility, enabling residents to commute to work, take children to school, shop for groceries, and attend medical appointments.
However, the clinics do not provide services related to DUI/OWI expungements, and license reinstatement is not guaranteed.
Partnerships That Make a Difference
The Road to Restoration clinics are made possible through collaboration between various entities, including the Department of Attorney General, DTE Energy, Miller Canfield Law Firm, Detroit Justice Center, Michigan Association of United Ways, and Michigan 2-1-1. Local Northern Michigan partners are Northwest Michigan Works! and United Way of Northeast Michigan.
Statement from Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson emphasized the importance of the program, stating: “Michigan is a driving state – it’s a genuine hardship to not have a valid driver's license to get to work, take the kids to school, go grocery shopping, or to see the doctor. With the help of our local partners, our Road to Restoration clinics will return to Northern Michigan next week to help people in the area get back on the road and back to their lives.”
These clinics mark the second year of the program, which has been instrumental in assisting Northern Michigan residents in restoring their driving privileges. Residents interested in these services are encouraged to pre-register or attend the clinics as walk-ins during the specified times.