Q: Am I eligible to have a vehicle registered in my name in the state of Michigan as a non-resident without a U.S. DL?

To be more specific, I would like to know if foreign driver's licenses accompanied with English translation (i.e. international driver's permit) and a valid foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa are acceptable documents to register a vehicle and have its title transferred in the state of Michigan.

From Michigan's Secretary of State website it says that:

"What do I need to title and register a vehicle?

(...)

You also will need to bring your Michigan driver’s license or ID."

3 Lawyer Answers
Hassan Hussein Elkhalil
Hassan Hussein Elkhalil
Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Atlanta, GA

A: Hello,

You can own a car but you cannot drive it if you do not have a driver license. International driver license, are valid under international law, for a period of time; normally one year from entry to the U.S.

All the best.

Regards,

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: Based on the information provided from the Michigan Secretary of State website, it seems that a Michigan driver’s license or ID is required to title and register a vehicle in the state. While you've mentioned having a foreign driver's license and other documents, these don't appear to satisfy the stated requirements for vehicle registration in Michigan. It would be advisable to reach out directly to the Michigan Secretary of State’s office to inquire whether there are any exceptions or other provisions that would allow a non-resident without a U.S. driver's license to register a vehicle.

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
Answered
  • Little Neck, NY

A: You may have resolved this at this point, but one option is to pose the question to them in terms of your options, given their requirements and your current documentation. Good luck

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