FAQ — Michigan License Restoration & DUI Attorney | Attorney Kelley Collett

Question 1

How does Michigan driver's license restoration work?

Accepted Answer

Michigan license restoration is an administrative process handled by the Secretary of State's Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight (OHAO). You must file a petition, submit a substance abuse evaluation, 12 panel drug test, letters of support from friends and family and attend a formal hearing before a hearing officer. The hearing officer reviews your sobriety, your risk of reoffending, and whether you meet the legal standard of "clear and convincing evidence." Attorney Collett guides you through every step — from the evaluation to the hearing itself.

Question 2

How many DUI or OWI convictions does it take to lose my license in Michigan?

Accepted Answer

Two OWI convictions within seven years, or three convictions in your lifetime, result in a mandatory license revocation in Michigan. Once revoked, you cannot simply pay a fee to get it back — you must go through the formal OHAO hearing process to have any chance of restoration.

Question 3

How long do I have to wait before I can apply for license restoration?

Accepted Answer

For a first revocation, you must wait at least one year from the date of revocation. For a second revocation within seven years, the wait is five years. If you were denied at a prior hearing, you must wait one year from the denial date before reapplying. Attorney Collett can review your driving record and confirm exactly when you become eligible.

Question 4

What is a substance abuse evaluation and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A substance abuse evaluation is a clinical assessment conducted by a licensed counselor before your hearing. It documents your sobriety history, any treatment you have completed, and your current risk level. The OHAO requires this evaluation as part of every restoration petition. The quality of your evaluation significantly affects your outcome — Attorney Collett works with evaluators experienced in the OHAO process.

Question 5

What happens if my restoration petition is denied?

Accepted Answer

If the AHS denies your petition, you must wait one year before filing again. Attorney Collett can appeal a denial to the circuit court, or help you strengthen your case for the next hearing by addressing the specific reasons for the denial. Many clients who were previously denied on their own succeed with proper legal representation.

Question 6

I moved out of Michigan but my license is still revoked there. Can I still get a clearance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you now live in another state, you can apply for an out-of-state clearance through the Michigan Secretary of State. This removes the Michigan hold so your current state can issue you a license. The process is similar to a standard restoration hearing and can be conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams — you do not need to travel back to Michigan.

Question 7

Can my hearing be done remotely?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Michigan OHAO hearings can be conducted entirely via Microsoft Teams. This means you can complete the entire process — consultation, preparation, and the hearing itself — without ever setting foot in a government office. Attorney Collett handles remote clients throughout Michigan and across the country.

Question 8

Do I need to come to your office in Swartz Creek?

Accepted Answer

No. While Attorney Collett's office is located in Swartz Creek, Michigan, the entire process can be handled remotely. Consultations, case preparation, and hearings are all available via phone or Microsoft Teams. Attorney Collett serves clients statewide and out-of-state.

Question 9

What makes Attorney Collett different from other license restoration attorneys?

Accepted Answer

Attorney Collett has over a decade of experience. With over 10 years of proven success in restoration hearings, she brings a level of expertise that general practice attorneys simply cannot match.

Question 10

Is the initial consultation free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Attorney Collett offers a free initial consultation to review your situation, confirm your eligibility, and explain what the restoration process would look like for your specific case. Call 810-965-3836 or use the contact form to schedule yours.

Question 11

How long does the restoration process take?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies depending on your situation, but most clients can expect the process to take several months from the initial consultation to the hearing date. This includes time to complete the substance abuse evaluation, gather supporting letters, prepare your petition, and wait for a hearing date to be scheduled. Attorney Collett will give you a realistic timeline during your free consultation.

Question 12

What areas of Michigan does Attorney Collett serve?

Accepted Answer

Attorney Collett serves clients throughout the entire state of Michigan, including Flint, Fenton, Lansing, Durand, Davison, Flushing, Grand Blanc, and the surrounding Genesee County area. Because hearings can be conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams, she also assists clients who have moved out of state but still have a Michigan driver's license hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

License Restoration Basics

Out-of-State and Remote Hearings

Working with Attorney Collett

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