In Michigan, points are “sticky.” Unlike other states where points drop off quickly or can be erased with a generic class, Michigan points stay on your record for two years from the date of conviction.
If you accumulate 12 points, you don’t just get a fine—you face a mandatory Driver Assessment Reexamination, which often leads to suspension.
Many drivers think they can log in and see a “Scoreboard” for free. Unfortunately, the Secretary of State (SOS) doesn’t work that way. To see your exact point total, you must purchase your official Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
This guide explains how to get that record instantly, what the points mean, and the only way to stop them from hurting your insurance.
Method 1: Check Michigan License Points Online Through CARS e-Services ($12 Certified Record)
The fastest way to see your status is through the CARS (Customer and Automotive Records System) portal.
- Cost: $12.00 (Certified Record).
- Format: Instant PDF Download.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Visit: Go to the Michigan SOS CARS Portal.
- Log In: You must use your MiLogin account. (If you don’t have one, you’ll need your Driver’s License number and DOB to sign up).
- Select Service: Click on “More Driver Services” and then “Request Driving Record.”
- Pay: Enter your credit/debit card to pay the $12.00 fee.
- View: The system will generate a PDF. Look for the “Convictions” section. This lists every ticket and the points assigned to it.
Pro-Tip (The “Free” Check): You don’t always have to pay. The SOS sends automatic warning letters when you reach 4 points and 8 points. If you recently received a letter, that is your free status check. If you missed it because you moved, update your address immediately using our DMV Michigan appointment guide to ensure you get the next one.
Method 2: Get Your Michigan Driving Record In Person or by Mail (BDVR-154 Form Option)
If you cannot access the online system, you can use the “Old School” methods.
Method 2: In-Person
- Where: Any Secretary of State branch office.
- Cost: $12.00.
- Action: You must show your ID and pay the fee.
- Note: You should book an appointment first to avoid long wait times.
Method 3: By Mail
- Form: Download Form BDVR-154 (Record Lookup Request).
- Cost: $11.00 (Uncertified) or $12.00 (Certified).
- Mail to:Michigan Department of State Record Lookup Unit 7064 Crowner Drive Lansing, MI 48918
Michigan Driver’s License Point System (Speeding, Reckless Driving, and 12-Point Reexamination
Knowing the “price” of a ticket can help you decide whether to fight it in court.
| Violation | Points Added |
| Speeding (1-10 mph over) | 2 Points |
| Speeding (11-15 mph over) | 3 Points |
| Speeding (16+ mph over) | 4 Points |
| Disobeying a Stop Sign/Light | 3 Points |
| Careless Driving | 3 Points |
| Reckless Driving | 6 Points |
| DUI / OWI | 6 Points |
| Fleeing an Officer | 6 Points |
The “12-Point” Danger Zone: If you hit 12 points, the SOS will call you in for a “Reexamination.” If you fail to appear (or fail the review), your license will be suspended. If you are already at this stage, read our guide on license reinstatement in Michigan to understand the hearing process.
Can You Remove Points in Michigan? The BDIC “Prevention, Not Deletion” Rule Explained
Many guides claim you can “remove” points. This is false.
- The Rule: Once points are on your Michigan record, they stay for 2 years. You cannot erase them.
The “Loophole” (BDIC): However, you can prevent points from ever appearing if you act fast.
- What is it? The Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC).
- How it works: If you get a minor ticket (e.g., speeding < 15 mph over) and you are eligible, the SOS will send you a letter offering the course.
- The Catch: You can only use this option once in your lifetime and you must have fewer than 3 points on your record to qualify.
- The Benefit: If you pass the course, the points are hidden from your record and your insurance company never sees them.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While you can view your license status (Valid/Invalid) for free on some screens, seeing the specific points usually requires buying the $12 record.
Insurance companies usually look at the last 3 years of your history. Even though points “expire” with the SOS after 2 years, the conviction might still raise your rates for a third year depending on your insurer.
Drive like a saint. You are 2 points away from a Reexamination. If you get another ticket, do not just pay it. Hire a traffic lawyer to try and reduce it to a “non-moving violation” (like “Impeding Traffic”) which carries 0 points.
No. Under the Driver Privacy Protection Act, you can only request your own record. Accessing someone else’s record without their permission is a crime.
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