After repeat OWI convictions, the Michigan Secretary of State must revoke your license under MCL 257.303, and you cannot be relicensed until at least 1 year has passed, or 5 years if there is a subsequent revocation within 7 years, and you meet the department’s requirements, which generally means proving your drinking problem is behind you. Restoration is a separate process from the criminal case, and it turns on evidence.
Reviewed by Attorney Kevin Bessant, Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates. Last reviewed October 2026.
License revocation and restoration at a glance
| Two convictions | Any combination of 2 listed convictions within 7 years, including OWI under MCL 257.625, leads to revocation and denial (MCL 257.303(2)(c)). |
|---|---|
| One serious conviction | A single conviction under MCL 257.625(4) or (5), causing death or serious impairment, leads to revocation (MCL 257.303(2)(d)). |
| Three convictions | Any combination of 3 listed convictions within 10 years leads to revocation (MCL 257.303(2)(g)). |
| Minimum wait | The later of 1 year after revocation, or 5 years after a subsequent revocation within 7 years of a prior one (MCL 257.303(4)(a)). |
| Burden | For several denial categories the person must rebut the habitual-offender presumption by clear and convincing evidence (MCL 257.303(4)(b)). |
| Same incident | Convictions from the same incident count as a single violation (MCL 257.303(6)). |
| Restricted option | A restricted license with an ignition interlock may be available through a specialty court program. See ignition interlock and restricted licenses. |
The Secretary of State’s own rules set the detailed requirements, so check the current rules before filing.
What a restoration case usually depends on
- Time. The minimum waiting period must run first.
- Evidence of sobriety. The person must show the problem is under control, with records and support that match the history.
- A clean record since. New violations during the wait hurt the case.
- Preparation. Gaps and inconsistencies in the paperwork are the most common reason requests fail.
Fighting the underlying charge can keep a second conviction off your record and avoid revocation in the first place. See second-offense OWI.
Related pages: DUI and OWI defense, driving while license suspended and refusing a chemical test.
Frequently asked questions
When is my license revoked after OWI in Michigan?
Two listed convictions within 7 years, three within 10 years, or one conviction for OWI causing death or serious impairment, under MCL 257.303(2).
How long until I can get my license back?
Not less than 1 year after revocation, or 5 years after a subsequent revocation within 7 years of a prior one, and only if you meet the department’s requirements.
Can I drive in the meantime?
Possibly with a restricted license and an ignition interlock through a specialty court program, if you qualify.
Talk to a Detroit license defense attorney
Call Attorney Kevin Bessant at 313-658-8159. We are in Detroit, Eastpointe and Southfield.
Legal Authority
See MCL 257.303 in the Michigan Legislature’s MCL database. This page is general information, not legal advice.