Successful public-private partnership helps Michiganders regain driving privileges

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. - Today, the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) joined partners for a Road to Restoration clinic in Battle Creek. The free clinics help Michiganders understand the necessary steps to regain their driver's license.

"We're proud to be back in Battle Creek with our dedicated staff, partners, and volunteers," said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. "Michigan residents eligible to regain their license come to our clinics for personalized guidance and a plan of action for safely returning to the road. We are making government work for the people of Michigan by bringing services directly to communities all over the state and it has made a meaningful difference in thousands of lives so far."

The Road to Restoration clinics, staffed by MDOS, the Department of Attorney General, and volunteer attorneys, help residents determine how they can restore their license and when possible, provide the services they need to do so on site. The clinics are made possible by numerous partner organizations including DTE Energy, Miller Canfield, Detroit Justice Center, Michigan Works! Southwest, Kellogg Community College, Goodwill Industries, Women's Co-op, City of Battle Creek, and Michigan 2-1-1 as well as location partners who provide the space for the clinics. Over 200 people visited today's clinic, hosted by Second Missionary Baptist Church.

"We are happy to host the Secretary of State's office again for the Road to Restoration clinic," said Pastor William J. Wyne, Second Missionary Baptist Church. "The Road to Restoration clinic is a good way to help persons establish a sense of rightness as it relates to driving. It can alleviate unnecessary litigation or interaction with the law."

Expert staff and volunteer attorneys met one-on-one with visitors to the clinic, reviewed their driving record, and advised on their next steps to get back behind the wheel.

"I'm proud to say I got my license! It's been 25 years. I'm a happy man right now, said Mario Aleman of Battle Creek, who had his license restored at today's clinic after being told a few years ago it would cost more than $10,000 in fines and fees to get it back. "I'll be trying to improve my job situation. I just take any job I can get because it's close to my house and I know I can get there. Now, I can go get a job and drive there and get there every day and not worry about getting rides or wondering how I'm going to get to work the next day. That's just a weight off my shoulders."

Additional clinics in 2024 are scheduled for Muskegon, Flint, Detroit, Marquette, Houghton, and Kalamazoo.

For more information about the program, to find a clinic near you, or to sign up for an upcoming clinic, visit Michigan.gov/R2R or dial 2-1-1.

Space for clinics may be limited and pre-registration is strongly recommended. The clinics do not provide DUI expungement services and license reinstatement is not guaranteed.

# # #