Last Updated on June 28, 2025 by The Insurance Pros

What You Need to Get a Michigan Graduated Teen Driver’s License (2025)

🧭 Michigan GDL Overview

All teen drivers under age 18 in Michigan must complete the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system, a three-step process that ensures young drivers gain experience behind the wheel in low-risk stages before earning full driving privileges.

Level 1—Learner’s Permit

  • The applicant must be at least 14 years and 9 months old.
  • Complete Segment 1 Driver Education:
    • ✔️ 24 hours classroom instruction
    • ✔️ 6 hours behind-the-wheel training
    • ✔️ 4 hours observation
  • You can only drive with a licensed parent, guardian, or adult aged 21+ in the front seat.

Level 2—Intermediate License

  • Hold a Level 1 license for at least 6 months.
  • Complete Segment 2 and log 30 driving hours (including 2 hours at night).
  • Pass the road skills test.
  • Restrictions: No driving from 10 PM to 5 AM (unless with an adult or for school/work). Only one non-family passenger under age 21 is allowed.

Level 3—Full License

  • The license becomes eligible at the age of 17.
  • You must maintain Level 2 for 6 months without any violations, or you must have no at-fault crashes for a total of 12 months.
  • We have removed all previous restrictions.

📋 Official Secretary of State Requirements

Before visiting a Secretary of State office or beginning Segment 1, check the state’s latest driver requirements and updates:

➡️ Official Resource: Visit the Michigan Secretary of State New Teen Drivers Page for application steps, required documents, and detailed GDL guidelines.

📥 Downloadable Licensing Guide

image of the downloadable Michigan Graduated Licensing Guide infographic for teen driverWant a visual breakdown of the Michigan Graduated Driver’s License process?

📄Please feel free to download your complimentary PDF guide to Michigan’s GDL requirements here.

🚗 Teen Auto Insurance Updates for 2025

Insurance rates for new teen drivers remain high, but Michigan’s reformed Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law allows for cost savings when selecting lower coverage tiers (if eligible).

  • Good Student Discounts: Save up to 25% for high-performing students.
  • Safe Driving Programs: State Farm’s Steer Clear® and similar programs reward responsible behavior.
  • Also ask about multi-policy, low-mileage, anti-theft, and family vehicle discounts.

Top teen insurance providers in Michigan include State Farm, GEICO, Travelers, USAA (for military families), and Allstate.

🎯 Ready for a Michigan Teen Driver Insurance Quote?

Protect your teen and your budget. Let us help you explore competitive coverage options:

🚘 Request Your Free Teen Driver Insurance Quote