Michigan Occupational License Insurance & SR-22 Filing
Michigan requires 50/100/10 liability coverage and is a no-fault state.
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Michigan at a Glance
50/100/10
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
No-fault
Each driver's own policy pays their injuries first, whoever caused the crash
Required
PIP coverage must be on every policy
$125
State license reinstatement fee
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in Michigan
Michigan operates under a modified no-fault system with mandatory Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. After license suspension, drivers seeking an occupational license must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Michigan Secretary of State and maintain it for 2 years post-reinstatement. The Secretary of State processes all occupational license applications — Michigan does not use a DMV for driver licensing.
Liability Insurance
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
SR-22 Filing
Property Protection Insurance (PPI)
What Drivers Pay in Michigan
$362–$670/mo
Typical monthly rate in Michigan, high-risk drivers after a DUI
Rate data: ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026
Get Insured for the Drive to Work
Keep Driving to WorkIf your license is suspended
Restricted license (offense-specific; incl. Specialty/Sobriety Court restricted license)
A restricted license is available while suspended.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state can act when your insurance lapses.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an occupational license in Michigan after a DUI?
Michigan requires a 30-day waiting period from the date of suspension before you can apply for an occupational license. After filing your petition with the Michigan Secretary of State, approval typically takes 10–21 business days if all documentation is complete. Your SR-22 filing must be active before the occupational license is issued — apply for SR-22 insurance immediately upon suspension notice to avoid delaying your hearing date.
What happens if my SR-22 insurance lapses while I have an occupational license in Michigan?
Your carrier notifies the Michigan Secretary of State electronically within 3 business days of policy cancellation. The state revokes your occupational license immediately with no grace period, and you face an additional 30–90 day suspension extension. Most non-standard carriers require 30-day advance payment to prevent accidental lapse — set up automatic payment to avoid missing a cycle.
Can I drive for non-work purposes with a Michigan occupational license?
Michigan occupational licenses restrict driving to court-approved purposes only: work, medical appointments, court-ordered programs, and essential household errands if specifically approved. Driving outside approved hours or routes violates the license restriction and typically results in immediate revocation plus an additional 60–180 day suspension. Some judges approve childcare and grocery trips — request these purposes explicitly in your petition.
Which insurance carriers write occupational license SR-22 policies in Michigan?
Non-standard carriers serving Michigan occupational license holders include Bristol West, Dairyland, GAINSCO, The General, Direct Auto, and Progressive's non-standard division. Standard carriers like State Farm and USAA typically decline occupational license applicants until the SR-22 period ends. Not all non-standard carriers operate statewide — Detroit and Flint have the widest carrier availability.
Coverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
The SR-22 certificate proves continuous coverage to the Michigan Secretary of State. Your carrier files it electronically and notifies the state within 72 hours if your policy cancels.
Non-Owner SR-22
Liability-only policy for drivers who do not own a vehicle but need SR-22 filing to obtain an occupational license. Covers you when driving employer vehicles, rental cars, or borrowed vehicles.
Liability Insurance
Pays damages you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Michigan's 20/40/10 minimums cover less than one moderate injury claim or vehicle total loss.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
High-risk carrier market serving drivers with DUI, multiple violations, or license suspensions. Occupational license applicants are assigned to this market automatically.