More options to access ExpressSOS

Print vehicle registration, operator’s permit and more at your local library

Library visitors may now use a library computer to renew license plate tabs and print a copy of their vehicle registration thanks to a convenient “print and go” feature available through ExpressSOS.com – the  online, no-wait Secretary of State. 

The self-printed registration allows drivers to legally operate their registered vehicle while waiting for the tabs to arrive in the mail, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said.

Similarly, library patrons can renew a driver’s license online* and print an operator’s permit, enabling them to drive legally until the license arrives in the mail. Patrons can also use library computers to print state IDs, duplicate copies of vehicle or boat registrations, and duplicate copies of titles directly from ExpressSOS.com.

*NOTE:  Every eight years, Michigan drivers are required to visit a Secretary of State branch office for a new driver’s license photo and an eye test.

Election Alert: Know before you go

Michiganians get to flex their electoral muscle on Tuesday, Nov. 5, in the General Election.

Want to get a sneak peak at your ballot? Visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote for election information, your voting location, absentee voting procedures and much more.

SOS employees boosting Harvest Gathering collection efforts

You may see workers at your local Secretary of State branch office wearing collegiate clothing on Thursday, Oct. 31. It’s all part of a fundraiser for the Michigan Harvest Gathering campaign. Staff members donate food or funds to the cause and are allowed to dress casually for the day. Because of the upcoming Michigan State/University of Michigan football game, employees are encouraged to support their favorite colleges.

Residents can donate nonperishable food items at any SOS branch office through Nov. 27. The campaign is coordinated by the Food Bank Council of Michigan, which supplies the state's regional food banks through donations of food and money. The regional food banks serve food pantries, soup kitches and shelters in every Michigan county.

People are asked to donate food items such as canned meats, dry beans, soups, beef stew, pasta products, peanut butter and tuna. They can also donate baby food or formula, diapers, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes.

Pictured: Sparta SOS branch employees and volunteers from Mamrelund Lutheran Church with some of the food they helped bring in for needy families for Thanksgiving distribution as part of Harvest Gathering last year.

Vote in UM vs. MSU Plate Showdown

The big game between UM and MSU is on Saturday, Nov. 2, but the State Plate Showdown is underway until noon Friday.

Which university's license plate would you rather have on your vehicle? Vote today!

SOS offices closed on Veterans Day

Secretary Johnson reminds residents all branch offices and the Office of the Great Seal will be closed on Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day.

Most people renewing license plates, driver's licenses and ID cards can do business online at www.ExpressSOS.com or by mail. License plate tabs can also be renewed at Self-Service Stations, many of which are available around the clock. Visit the Branch Office Locator to find a Self-Service Station near you.

FAIR Task Force holds first meeting to combat auto insurance fraud

The Fighting Auto Insurance Rip-offs (FAIR) Task Force formed by Secretary of State Ruth Johnson met for the first time in Lansing on Oct. 16 to explore how Michigan can crack down on fraudulent activity and protect consumers with regard to auto insurance.

Department of State officials, along with representatives from state government, law enforcement and the insurance industry, discussed ways to share information and collaborate on investigations. The group is also looking at legislation to help root out fraudulent policies and impose penalties.

Johnson updates Kent County clerks

On Oct. 17, Secretary Johnson addressed a meeting of local clerks from communities across Kent County to applaud their work in administering elections and provide them with an update on current election initiatives. 

According to the 2013 Pew Elections Performance Index, Michigan ranks as one of the top 10 states in the nation for election administration. Statewide, Michigan has 1,600 local and county clerks who manage and run elections. There are currently 7.4 million registered voters in the state.