LANSING, Mich. – Eligible Michigan adults now have the option to take the written driver’s license knowledge test online at Michigan.gov/SOSOnlineTesting. Passing the knowledge test is the first step in obtaining a Michigan operator’s temporary instruction permit. 

“Government should work for the people, meeting Michiganders where they are and providing convenient service that fits into their daily lives,” Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said. “Since 2019, our department has more than doubled the number of services available online, and now most visitors to our branch offices are in and out in 20 minutes or less. The new online driver’s license testing option is just the latest example of our work to make our services more accessible, efficient, and convenient for the people of Michigan.” 

The online KnowTo Drive driver’s license knowledge test is the same test currently administered on computer kiosks at Michigan Secretary of State branch offices and is available in multiple languages. An audio option is also offered online. ITI Inc. is the company that administers the secure online test and is the same vendor that maintains the department’s self-service stations throughout the state. Michigan is the latest state to offer an online driver’s license testing option, joining states like Ohio, Wisconsin, Colorado, and California.   

The online exam includes both a multiple-choice test and a road sign test. Eligible Michigan residents aged 18 and over are required to verify proof of identity with a Social Security number or proof of legal presence and must pay a $6.50 convenience fee. Test-takers must use an operating webcam to verify their identity throughout the duration of the online test. Cheating will not be tolerated and those with infractions can be disqualified. Applicants can take the test up to two times per calendar day, paying the fee each time. If a test-taker passes one section of the test but fails the other, they may visit a branch office to complete the full test at no charge.  

Michigan adults who pass the test and pay the online registration fee must visit a branch office to receive their operator’s temporary instruction permit. Secretary of State staff will verify the applicant’s qualifications and issue the permit for a fee of $25. After obtaining their permit, the driver can practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult and will be eligible to take the driving skills test after 30 days. Once the driver passes the road skills test, they can print their temporary operator’s license from Michigan Department of State e-Services to use until their license is processed and mailed to their home address. 

Michigan temporary instruction permits are valid for six months. Adults who successfully complete the road test before their temporary instruction permit expires will receive their driver’s license free of charge. 

For more information, visit Michigan.gov/SOSOnlineTesting.