Michigan's New Policy on Driver's Licenses Impacts Legal Nonimmigrants
As of Tuesday, January 22, 2008, only U.S. permanent residents (green card holders) and U.S. citizens are eligible to obtain a State of Michigan driver's license.
Based on a recent Michigan Attorney General opinion (#7210), "only a resident of Michigan may be issued a Michigan driver's license." The opinion concludes that "A person who is not a lawful resident of the United States cannot be a resident of this State for purposes of obtaining a driver's license. . ." Therefore, any individual who is in the United States on a valid, nonimmigrant visa will no longer be eligible to apply for a Michigan driver's license.
At this time, it is unclear if this policy extends to renewals of a license and/or changing an address on a license. However, we would caution all foreign nationals to be aware of this new policy.
Although these individuals are no longer eligible for a Michigan driver's license, individuals from numerous countries may legally drive in the U.S. with their valid, non-commercial driver's license issued by their home country of residence. Thomas W. Linn at 313.496.7511.
