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. This website provides a document that goes over all the requirements to obtain a driving license as well as information on rules, signals, and what to do in crisis situations. The document is available in the following languages: English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Dari, French, Pashto, Swahili, and Vietnamese.

Driving Skills Test Study Guide.pdf (1,547KB): This document contains all the information you will need to learn and know in order to pass the Segment 1 driving test.

Segment 1 Driving Test: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/license-id/new-drivers-18-older

The Segment 1 Driving Test is a written examination. It can either be taken online at the website provided above, or it can be taken in-person at the Secretary of State office. NOTE: the online test costs $6.50 to take, and you will need to pick up your permit at a Secretary of State office. The technology requirements for the test are listed on the website provided above. The test is available in multiple languages and can be changed to preferred language if asked. 

If you choose to take the test in person, you will need to set up an appointment with the Secretary of State.  You can book appointments on this website: https://dsvsesvc.sos.state.mi.us/TAP/_/ 

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.