The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) and partners Michigan Department of Attorney General, DTE Energy, Miller Canfield, the Detroit Justice Center, the Michigan Association of United Ways, and Michigan 2-1-1 are re-launching the successful Road to Restoration program for 2023. The statewide series of clinics helps drivers with suspended licenses complete the required steps to safely get back behind the wheel.
This is the second year of the Road to Restoration program that assists Michiganders at locations throughout the state. In 2022, more than 4,000 Michigan residents were served at 18 clinics held in 11 cities, including Alpena, Benton Harbor, Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Traverse City. At each clinic, residents meet one-on-one with expert staff to learn how to get their driving privileges restored and they can complete as many steps as possible on site. While residents may be required to pay past fines, the expertise is provided free of charge.
“Making state government work for the people of Michigan by meeting them where they are has been one of my top priorities as Secretary of State,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “This first-of-its-kind public-private partnership has already made a real difference in the lives of many Michiganders. I am grateful to our community partners and volunteers who will help us bring this successful effort to the people who need it most throughout the state this year.”
“I am proud of the work my department has already been able to get done – in conjunction with Secretary Benson, the Department of State, and our other partners – to make Michigan’s Road to Restoration program a success,” Attorney General Dana Nessel said. “It’s simple: licensed drivers are safer drivers, and improved access to transportation helps families, businesses, and communities thrive. I look forward to seeing what more can be accomplished in the coming year as we continue this work on behalf of Michigan residents.”
In 2021, new state laws lifted suspensions for drivers who failed to pay tickets or court fines, or failed to appear in court, for certain non-moving and other violations. While the new laws removed suspensions for more than 150,000 Michiganders, many must still take further action before their license is restored. Road to Restoration clinics assist residents in navigating any necessary additional steps to safely return to driving.
Clinics are scheduled for Grand Rapids, Lansing, Detroit, Downriver, Mt. Pleasant, Alpena, and the Upper Peninsula.
For additional information about the program, to find a clinic near you, or to sign up for an upcoming clinic, visit Michigan.gov/RoadtoRestoration or dial 2-1-1.
Space for clinics may be limited and pre-registration is strongly recommended.
The clinics do not provide DUI expungement services and license reinstatement is not guaranteed.
