Restoring your Michigan driver’s license after revocation due to alcohol-related offenses requires more than just waiting. It’s about showing consistent commitment to sobriety and responsible behavior. Letters of support are one of the most important pieces of evidence in this process, providing a clear picture of your character, recovery efforts, and readiness to drive responsibly.
Learn more about Michigan driver’s license restoration.
1. Process Overview: What to Expect
When you apply for license restoration, your case is reviewed by an administrative law judge. The judge will evaluate your letters of support, substance use evaluation, and other proof of recovery or treatment. Some cases may also involve a circuit court appeal. Letters of support help demonstrate your readiness to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly.
2. Minimum Requirements for Every Letter
To ensure your letters are effective:
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They must be original and personally written by the author.
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Include the writer’s full name, address, and contact information.
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Clearly explain the writer’s knowledge of your past and current substance use.
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Confirm the last time the writer observed alcohol or drug use.
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Mention your participation in treatment programs or support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
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Be dated and signed.
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Notarized to verify authenticity (see below).
Consistency across all letters strengthens your case.
3. Who Should Write the Letters
Letters should come from people who know you well and can speak to your character and sobriety. Ideal writers include:
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Family members and close friends who have observed your recovery.
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Employers, supervisors, or coworkers familiar with your professional conduct.
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Religious leaders, sponsors, or mentors who can attest to your ethical behavior.
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Healthcare professionals such as counselors or therapists.
A variety of perspectives gives the judge a well-rounded understanding of your recovery journey.
4. Clarify the Letter Writer’s Relationship With You
Each letter should clearly describe how the author knows you, for how long, and how frequently they interact with you. This information allows the judge to assess the credibility of the letter and the depth of the author’s knowledge about your character.
5. Every Letter Must Be Notarized
Notarization adds credibility and verifies the authenticity of the signature. Letters can be notarized at banks, credit unions, insurance offices, or local UPS stores. Ensure the letter is signed in the notary’s presence and that the notary seal is properly affixed.
6. What Not to Include
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Avoid generic statements; letters should be personal and specific.
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Do not include negative information, past violations, or relapses.
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Keep the tone professional and factual rather than emotional.
Letters that follow these guidelines present a credible and consistent case.
7. Submission Guidelines
After collecting all letters:
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Ensure they are original, signed, and notarized.
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Organize letters in a logical order for submission.
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Include them with your substance use evaluation and other required documents when submitting to the Michigan Secretary of State.
Need Assistance?
Navigating the driver’s license restoration process can be complex. At The Law Offices of Barton Morris, we help clients throughout every step—from gathering strong letters of support to preparing for the hearing. With decades of experience and a high success rate, we can guide you through the process.