Losing your driver’s license can have a serious impact on your work, family, and independence. Fortunately, the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) provides a path for you to restore your driving privileges — but the process can feel overwhelming without the right preparation and guidance.
At Pacific Substance Abuse Assessment & Treatment Services, we specialize in Michigan driver’s license restoration evaluations and help clients navigate every step of the SOS appeal process.
Understanding the Michigan License Restoration Process
If your driver’s license was revoked due to an OWI, DUI, or substance-related offense, you’ll need to prove to the Michigan Department of State Driver Assessment and Appeal Division (DAAD) that your alcohol or drug use problem is under control and that you’re likely to remain sober.
Our licensed clinicians have extensive experience conducting Substance Use Evaluations for driver’s license restoration that meet all SOS requirements and increase your chance of success.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility Date
Before you apply, make sure you’re eligible.
A first revocation usually requires a minimum one-year waiting period.
Multiple revocations typically require five years.
You can confirm your eligibility by reviewing your Michigan driving record through the Secretary of State’s office or by contacting our team for guidance.
Step 2: Get a Substance Use Evaluation (SUE)
A Substance Use Evaluation is one of the most critical parts of your driver’s license restoration case. The SOS relies heavily on this evaluation to understand your history, treatment progress, and recovery plan.
At Pacific Substance Abuse Assessment & Treatment Services, our evaluations are:
Completed by state-licensed clinicians
Structured according to SOS-DAAD standards
Designed to highlight your sobriety progress and readiness
We help ensure every detail — from documentation to diagnostic clarity — supports your case for reinstatement.
Step 3: Collect Letters of Support
You’ll need 3–6 letters of support from individuals who can confirm your sobriety and responsible lifestyle. These letters are crucial because they help the hearing officer see evidence of your change.
Each letter should include:
The relationship between you and the writer
Observations about your past and current behavior
Confirmation of your sobriety and personal growth
We provide templates and feedback to help ensure your support letters meet SOS guidelines.
Step 4: Request Your Hearing with the Michigan SOS
Once your evaluation and letters are complete, submit your DAAD application to the Michigan Secretary of State. You’ll then choose between:
A live hearing (in person or virtual via Microsoft Teams), or
An administrative review by mail (for out-of-state residents)
A live hearing is often the better option since it gives you the chance to explain your progress and recovery directly to the hearing officer.
Step 5: Prepare for the Hearing
During your hearing, the officer will ask detailed questions about:
Your sobriety journey
Relapse prevention and recovery plan
Your support system (AA, counseling, therapy, etc.)
Lifestyle changes that reflect long-term sobriety
Our evaluators work hand-in-hand with your attorney or advocate to ensure your documentation and responses are consistent and credible.
Step 6: After the Hearing
You’ll receive a written decision from the hearing officer:
If approved, you’ll usually receive a restricted license with an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year.
After maintaining compliance, you can apply for full reinstatement.
If denied, you can reapply after one year — and we’ll help you correct any issues for your next review.
Why Choose Pacific Substance Abuse Assessment & Treatment Services?
We’ve helped hundreds of Michigan residents successfully restore their licenses by providing:
State-approved substance use evaluations
Professional guidance for SOS documentation
Experience with DAAD hearing expectations
Compassionate support without judgment
Whether you live in Jackson, Lansing, Detroit, Ypsilanti, Kalamazoo, or Livonia, we provide virtual and in-person evaluations that make the process smooth, supportive, and stress-free.
Start Your Michigan License Restoration Today
Getting your license back isn’t just about driving — it’s about rebuilding your freedom, career, and confidence.
📍 Serving clients throughout Michigan, including Jackson, Lansing, Detroit, Ypsilanti, Kalamazoo, and Livonia
📞 Call or text: (517) 416-2010
🌐 Visit: PacificSubstanceAbuse.com
Let our experienced evaluators help you take the first step toward your Michigan driver’s license restoration today.