What you need to do to get a chauffeur's license in Michigan
A chauffeur's license in Michigan is a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement. You need it if you drive passengers for money — whether that's a town car service, limousine company, or ride-sharing operation. The state does not issue a separate "chauffeur" license; instead, you upgrade a standard driver's license by passing additional tests and meeting medical requirements.
The process takes roughly four to eight weeks from start to finish, depending on how quickly you schedule your medical exam and written tests. You will need to pass a written knowledge test specific to passenger transport, a skills test (driving test), and a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam. The medical exam is the first step because you cannot take the written test without proof that you passed it.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass a DOT medical exam before you can take any written or driving tests for a chauffeur's license in Michigan.
- The written test covers passenger safety, vehicle maintenance, and road rules specific to commercial driving; you study using the Michigan CDL manual.
- The driving test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving with an examiner in your vehicle.
- You pay a licensing fee to the Secretary of State and a separate fee for the medical exam, which is performed by a certified medical examiner.
- Your chauffeur's license is valid for four years in Michigan, after which you renew by passing another DOT medical exam and paying the renewal fee.
Step 1: Get a DOT medical exam and certification
Before you do anything else, you must have a DOT medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner. This is not your regular doctor's checkup. The examiner checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and medical history to confirm you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. You can find a list of certified examiners on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website, or ask your local Secretary of State office for referrals.
The exam costs between $100 and $200 depending on the examiner. If you pass, the examiner gives you a Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5875), which is valid for two years. You bring this certificate with you when you explore for your chauffeur's license. If the examiner finds a medical condition that disqualifies you, you will not be able to proceed until that condition is resolved or waived by the FMCSA.
Step 2: Study and pass the written knowledge test
Michigan requires you to pass a written test on passenger transport rules and commercial driving safety. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You study using the Michigan Commercial Driver's License Manual, which you can read free from the Secretary of State website or pick up at any branch office. The manual covers air brakes, vehicle inspection, passenger safety procedures, and road rules specific to commercial drivers.
You take the written test at a Secretary of State office. Bring your Medical Examiner's Certificate, your current driver's license, and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return). The test costs $10. You can retake it if you fail, but you must wait one day before your next attempt. Most people pass on the first try if they study the manual thoroughly.
Step 3: Schedule and pass the driving skills test
Once you pass the written test, you are cleared to schedule a driving test with a Secretary of State examiner. The test has three parts: a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills (backing, turning, parking), and on-road driving. The entire test takes about 45 minutes. You must bring a vehicle that meets commercial standards — it should be in safe working condition, have working brakes and lights, and be large enough to demonstrate the skills the examiner is looking for.
The examiner sits in the vehicle with you and watches how you handle passenger safety, mirror checks, lane changes, and response to traffic. Bring your Medical Examiner's Certificate, your current driver's license, and proof of vehicle registration. The driving test costs $30. If you fail, you can retake it after one day. Many people pass on the first attempt if they practice with someone experienced in commercial driving beforehand.
Fees and timeline
The total cost to obtain a chauffeur's license in Michigan breaks down as follows: DOT medical exam ($100–$200), written test ($10), driving test ($30), and the chauffeur's license itself ($35 for a four-year license). Your total out-of-pocket cost is roughly $175 to $275, depending on which medical examiner you choose.
The timeline depends on how quickly you schedule appointments. The medical exam can often be done within a week. The written test can be scheduled within days at most Secretary of State offices. The driving test typically has a wait of one to three weeks depending on your location and the time of year. Plan for four to eight weeks total from your first medical exam to receiving your license in the mail.
Renewal and ongoing requirements
Your chauffeur's license is valid for four years. To renew, you must pass another DOT medical exam and pay the renewal fee ($35). You do not have to retake the written or driving tests unless your license was suspended or revoked. If your medical certification expires before your license does, your chauffeur's license becomes invalid until you renew the medical certificate.
Some employers require additional training or background checks beyond the state license. Check with your employer or the company you plan to work for to see if they have their own requirements. Many ride-sharing and limousine services require a clean driving record and may conduct their own vehicle inspections.
What disqualifies you from getting a chauffeur's license
Michigan law disqualifies you from holding a chauffeur's license if you have certain criminal convictions, including felonies involving drugs or violence within the past 10 years. You are also disqualified if you have been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or refusal to take a breath test within the past 10 years. A suspended or revoked driver's license also prevents you from obtaining a chauffeur's license.
The DOT medical exam can disqualify you if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes that is not well managed, vision worse than 20/40 in each eye, or certain heart conditions. Some conditions can be waived by the FMCSA if you provide additional medical documentation. If you are unsure whether a medical condition will disqualify you, ask the medical examiner before scheduling the full exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a chauffeur's license to drive for Uber or Lyft in Michigan?
No. Uber and Lyft drivers in Michigan use a standard driver's license, not a commercial license. However, some cities or counties may have local rules requiring additional permits or background checks. Check with your city or county government before you start driving.
Can I get a chauffeur's license if I have a DUI on my record?
Not if the DUI conviction is within the past 10 years. Michigan law bars you from holding a commercial driver's license during that period. After 10 years have passed, you may be able to obtain one, but you should contact the Secretary of State to confirm your specific situation.
What happens if my medical certification expires before my license does?
Your chauffeur's license becomes invalid when ready. You cannot legally drive passengers for money until you renew your DOT medical certification. Renew it before it expires to avoid any gap in your ability to work.
How long does the driving test take?
The entire driving test, including the pre-trip inspection and on-road portion, takes about 45 minutes. You should plan to be at the Secretary of State office for at least one hour to account for check-in and paperwork.
Can I use my personal car for the driving test?
Your personal car must meet commercial vehicle standards and be in safe working condition. It should have working brakes, lights, mirrors, and seat belts. If you are unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, call your local Secretary of State office before scheduling the test.