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1. How do I obtain a restricted driver's license if mine has been suspended or revoked?

If your driver's license has been suspended or revoked by the Secretary of State, and you have used all possible appeal procedures, you may petition the circuit court for partial driving privileges.

If your driver's license was suspended by a judge, a restricted driver's license can be granted only by the judge who suspended the license.

2. When filing for a restricted driver's license, what forms do I need and how do I obtain them?

When you file a petition for a restricted license with the circuit court clerk's office, you will also need a copy of your driving record from the Secretary of State. There is a filing fee. After the petition has been filed, you will need to follow the court rules and local circuit court procedures to obtain a temporary driver's license and an order to show cause. The order to show cause will be the notice of a hearing that you must send to the Secretary of State.

Preparation of forms, and the filing and serving of documents, is your responsibility. The court is not responsible for these activities. The circuit court clerk's office can assist you with the filing procedure and local forms, but clerks cannot give you legal advice. If you have questions about the law, please contact an attorney. If you have additional questions about the process, please contact the Jackson County Clerk’s Office at 517-788-4268.

3. What is the court hearing process for obtaining a restricted driver's license?

At the court hearing, you will have to testify under oath about your driving record, your need for driving privileges, and whether other transportation is available for you to travel to and from work. If the judge grants you either a full or restricted driver's license, a court order must be prepared, signed by the judge, and filed with the court clerk's office. The court order must also be registered with the Secretary of State.

4. How are points assessed to my driving record and can the judge or magistrate reduce or remove the points assessed on my driver’s license?

Points are added to your driving record if you are found responsible for most civil infractions or traffic misdemeanors. Points are assessed by the Secretary of State as required by law. The court does not assign points and cannot dismiss or waive them.

Points remain on a driver's record for 2 years from the date of the finding of responsibility or conviction, and the offense appears on the driving record for 7 years. Points may also affect car insurance rates. If a person gets too many points, the Secretary of State may put the driver on probation or suspend his or her license.

Individuals seeking specific information about their driving records must request a copy of their driving record. The request can be made by contacting the Record Look-up Unit at 517-322-1624 or by faxing a request to 517-322-1181.