Vehicle Code in Michigan

Motor Vehicle Code in Michigan

If you need information about the exact language of the laws that regulate your driver's license, your vehicle, and the rules of the road, the Michigan motor vehicle code can be a great place to look.

You'll find everything from the procedures of the Michigan Secretary of State to the fees and penalties for traffic violations.

On this page you'll find information about accessing the Michigan vehicle code and some links to other related topics.

NOTE: While the motor vehicle code can be a great reference, if you need specific legal advice you should consider contacting an attorney.

Access the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code

Want to know what it takes to be an auto dealer in Michigan or what the penalty is for leaving the scene of an accident? How about what "manufacturer's vehicle" means? It's all there in black and white in the Michigan vehicle code.

But the vehicle code―first passed in 1949―is essential reading if you're a wannabe car dealer, involved in law enforcement, or want to just get a clearer picture of why you were stopped for "following too closely."

The motor vehicle code is a living document that's altered slightly on a near-constant basis as new regulations are needed or as changes to the existing language of the law is warranted. Each legislative session sees a repeal or amendment to one section or another. That's because as Michigan's society changes, its laws need to keep pace. For instance, new technologies can make old laws obsolete. Talking or texting on cell phones while driving was probably not factored into most of the laws regarding driving a vehicle, but as the times change, a clearer definition is necessary.

How to Access the MI Motor Vehicle Code

The Michigan vehicle code is available for download as a PDF file or HTML file, or it can be viewed, section-by-section, online.

Here's a quick look at what's available:

  • Chapter I―Words and Phrases Defined (257.1...257.82).
  • Chapter II―Administration, Registration, Certificate of Title and Anti-Theft (257.201...257.259).
  • Chapter III―Operator's and Chauffeur's License (257.301...257.329).
  • Chapter IV―Civil Liability Act (257.401...257.404).
  • Chapter V―Financial Responsibility Act (257.501...257.532).
  • Chapter VI―Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws (257.601...257.750).
  • Chapter VII―Registration Fees (257.801...257.821).
  • Chapter VIII―Penalties (257.901...257.910).
  • Chapter IX―Miscellaneous (257.921...257.923).

Check Your Driver's License Status

Whenever you need or want to check the status of your Michigan driver's license, you can order a driving record report. This record will spell out if your driver's license is currently valid. Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what's on record with the Michigan SOS. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.

Additionally, traffic violations, both major and minor, can cause the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) to take action against your driver's license. You may face driver's license suspensions, reinstatement requirements, driving restrictions, driver improvement course completion requirements, fees, and even higher car insurance rates.

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