How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Driving Record in Michigan?

If you’ve been charged with a DUI, one of the most important questions is how long it will follow you. The reality is that a DUI conviction can remain on your driving record permanently.

That means law enforcement and courts can see prior offenses at any time, and future charges may be treated as repeat offenses, even decades later. While the conviction itself doesn’t go away, the points associated with a DUI only remain on your record for two years.

Beyond your driving record, a DUI also creates a criminal record, which may be eligible for expungement in limited first-offense cases. However, multiple convictions usually can’t be removed.

For individuals facing license revocation after repeat offenses, there is still a path forward. Through driver’s license restoration, eligible drivers can petition to regain their driving privileges by demonstrating sobriety and a commitment to long-term change.

Working with an experienced attorney like Dan Geherin can help ensure your case is properly prepared and give you the best chance at success.

Take the First Step Toward Getting Your License Back

A DUI conviction doesn’t just go away—but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If your license has been revoked, you may be eligible for driver’s license restoration in Michigan, and taking the right steps now can make all the difference. 

The restoration process is detailed, evidence-driven, and unforgiving when mistakes are made. A single error can delay your ability to drive for another year.

That’s why working with Dan Geherin is critical. With the right guidance, you can build a strong case, avoid common pitfalls, and move forward with confidence.

Don’t wait to get back on the road—take the first step today.

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How Driver’s License Restoration Works in Michigan After Multiple DUIs

When a Michigan driver accumulates multiple DUI convictions, the state may revoke their driver’s license entirely. This is very different from a suspension. Once revoked, driving privileges do not automatically return—you must go through the process of driver’s license restoration in Michigan to legally drive again.

License revocations commonly occur when a driver receives:

• Two DUI convictions within seven years, or
• Three DUI convictions within ten years

Drivers in this situation must petition the Michigan Secretary of State’s Administrative Hearings Section (AHS) to restore their license. The process is detailed and requires substantial documentation proving that the applicant has addressed any alcohol-related issues.

Applicants must demonstrate that:

1. Their substance abuse problem is under control
2. It is likely to remain under control
3. They are committed to long-term sobriety

The process typically includes submitting a Substance Use Evaluation, gathering letters of support, and attending a license restoration hearing. Even after approval, many drivers initially receive a restricted license with an ignition interlock device before eventually regaining full driving privileges.

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Because the burden of proof is high, preparation is critical. Attorney Dan Geherin works with clients throughout the driver’s license restoration process in Michigan, helping them assemble documentation and present a strong case.

If you’re ready to pursue driver’s license restoration, speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand the requirements and move closer to getting back on the road. Contact us today!

Will You Automatically Lose Your License After a DUI in Michigan?

A DUI arrest can immediately raise serious concerns—especially about your ability to keep driving. Many people facing charges wonder whether a conviction will automatically mean losing their license. In Michigan, the answer depends on several factors, including the specific charge and whether you have prior DUI offenses.

For a first offense Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) conviction, drivers typically face a 30-day license suspension followed by 150 days of restricted driving privileges. Restricted licenses may allow driving only for essential activities like work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered treatment. If the case involves a high BAC of 0.17 or higher, penalties increase to 45 days of suspension and 320 days of restricted driving with an ignition interlock device.

Some drivers are instead convicted of Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI). While this charge is less severe, it still carries consequences. A first OWVI offense often results in 90 days of restricted driving privileges, and the conviction becomes part of your driving record.

The most serious license consequences occur with multiple DUI convictions. Under Michigan law, drivers who receive two DUI convictions within seven years or three within ten years face automatic license revocation. Unlike a suspension, a revocation does not automatically end after a set period—you must apply for driver’s license restoration in Michigan to legally drive again.

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If your license has been revoked, there may still be a path forward. Attorney Dan Geherin helps Michigan drivers pursue driver’s license restoration and prepare the evidence needed to demonstrate sobriety and responsibility.

If you’re dealing with license consequences after a DUI, scheduling a consultation can help you understand your options and take the first step toward restoring your driving privileges.

Driver’s License Reinstatement in Michigan: What You Must Prove

If your Michigan driver’s license has been revoked after multiple DUI convictions — you can’t simply pay a fee to get it back. The process for driver’s license reinstatement in Michigan is detailed and demanding. 

What the Secretary of State Requires

 

You must prove:

• Your substance abuse problem is under control
• It is likely to remain under control
• You are a safe, low-risk driver 

The Restoration Process Includes:

1. Substance abuse evaluation
2. 10-panel drug screen
3. Letters of support
4. Administrative hearing
5. Ignition interlock compliance (if approved)

Even small inconsistencies can lead to denial.

 

Why Legal Representation Matters

 

Dan Geherin focuses specifically on Michigan license restoration and DUI-related revocations. He provides:

• Strategic preparation for Secretary of State hearings
• Careful review of support letters
• Detailed case preparation
• Personalized hearing preparation

Learn more on our website!

When your ability to work and support your family depends on driving, professional representation is essential. Dan Geherin provides experienced, focused representation for drivers across Michigan seeking license restoration and reinstatement.

 

Your freedom to drive impacts your job, family, and future. Get the guidance you need to restore it properly. Schedule your initial consultation today!

New Michigan Hands-Free & DUI Laws Could Impact Your Driver’s License in 2026

Michigan drivers should be aware of important 2026 updates to state driving laws. These changes increase penalties for distracted driving and DUI offenses — and they could directly affect driver’s license reinstatement in Michigan.

Stricter Hands-Free Enforcement

 

Law enforcement can now stop drivers solely for handheld device violations. Updated penalties include:

• Primary enforcement statewide
• Increased fines for repeat offenses
• Points added to your driving record
• Mandatory driving improvement courses 

Multiple violations may lead to license suspension under Michigan’s point system.

 

Tougher DUI Consequences

 

Michigan lawmakers have expanded ignition interlock requirements and lengthened suspension and revocation periods for DUI offenders. Repeat offenders face increased monitoring and stricter probation standards.

 

If your license has been revoked after multiple DUI convictions, you must request a formal hearing with the Michigan Secretary of State before seeking reinstatement.

 

Read more on our website!

Don’t Risk Delays

Reinstatement requires proof that your substance use is under control and that you are a low-risk driver. Mistakes in paperwork or preparation can result in denial — and another year without driving.

 

Dan Geherin helps clients throughout Michigan navigate the complex process of driver’s license restoration and appeals.

 

If your driving privileges are at risk, experienced legal guidance can make the difference. Schedule your initial consultation today!

Suspension vs. Revocation: Why the Difference Matters After an Out-of-State DUI

When Michigan takes action against your driver’s license, the distinction between suspension and revocation is critical—especially if your DUI occurred in another state.

A suspension is temporary and typically ends automatically after a set period, provided all fees are paid. Revocation, however, is far more serious. Once revoked, your license is completely taken away, and there is no automatic reinstatement. You must apply and be approved through the formal driver’s license restoration in Michigan process.

 

This process is handled by the Secretary of State’s Administrative Hearings Section and focuses heavily on proof of sobriety, substance abuse evaluations, and evidence of long-term alcohol abstinence. For many drivers, especially those with multiple or out-of-state DUIs, legal guidance is essential to avoid costly delays or denials.

Learn more about how DUIs from other states affect your Michigan license here.

 

Out-of-state DUIs don’t stay out of state—and neither do their consequences.

Out-of-State DUIs Can Still Cost You Your Michigan License

Many drivers mistakenly believe a DUI only affects them in the state where it occurred. Unfortunately, that’s not how Michigan law works. Even if your DUI happened years ago—or before you lived in Michigan—out-of-state convictions are often shared through national reporting systems and can directly impact your Michigan driving privileges.

Michigan participates in the Driver License Compact (DLC) and the National Driver Register (NDR), which allow states to exchange information about alcohol-related driving offenses. If Michigan determines that an out-of-state DUI is substantially similar to a Michigan OWI, it can be added to your driving record and treated as a prior offense.

 

For drivers with multiple alcohol-related convictions, this often means license revocation rather than suspension—making driver’s license restoration in Michigan the only path back to lawful driving.

 

Learn more about how DUIs from other states affect your Michigan license here.

 

If you’re facing license consequences tied to an out-of-state DUI, understanding Michigan’s rules is the first step toward protecting your future on the road.