Driver's License or Michigan ID for International Students

The Driver’s License and Michigan ID are issued by the Secretary of State Office.

To apply for a Driver’s License and/or Michigan ID, students must bring the following documents: 

• Valid Passport
• Form I-20
• Form I-94 – available online
• Two documents that show current local U.S. address, such as bank statement, tuition bill, class schedule
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Letter of Ineligibility (Form SSA L-676) for those who do not have SSN – read DHS article for explanation
• Driver’s License from your country (if applicable)
  • If you have a driver license from your country, bring it with you and make sure it is completely translated in English.

Study for the written and road sign tests using the booklet What Every Driver Must Know.

Apply for your Driver's License and/or Michigan ID in person at the Secretary of State Branch Office in Saginaw.

• Address: 4404 Bay Rd, Saginaw, MI
• Phone: 888.767.6424
• Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm; Wednesday only, 11:00am-7:00pm
• Website:https://www.michigan.gov/sos

Visit office:

• Schedule an appointment online (shorter wait times) or
• Walk-ins are available (but longer waiting times)

How to you get to the office?

• Go on your own (friend, cab, etc) or
• The International Programs office has scheduled Friday trips to the Secretary of State office. Contact the office to sign-up (intlstu@svsu.edu)

How much will my first license or ID cost?

• A standard state ID is $10.
• A standard first-time license is $25.

 Remember to bring these documents with you:

• Social Security number/card
  • OR
• Letter of in-eligibility (Form SSA L-676)
  • You need this letter if you do not have a Social Security number
• Valid Passport (Unexpired)
• I-20
• I-94 form
• Two documents that show your current local U.S. address (Example: bank statement, tuition bill, a class schedule, etc.)
• Driver’s License from your country:
  • If you have a driver license from your country, bring it with you and make sure it is completely translated in English.