US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Drivers License
Can I get a drivers license if I move to Ohio from Michigan where I cannot get one?

Can I get a drivers license if I move to Ohio from Michigan where I cannot get one?

Full question:

I pointed out 10 years ago with my michigan state license. It's been nothing but hoops to get it back. Can I get an ohio state drivers license now that I've moved ?

Category: Drivers License
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Michigan

Answer:

You can try in Ohio but if you have a suspended license in Michigan, Ohio will discover this when you apply and deny you a license in Ohio.

National Driver Registry or Driver's License Compact Block – ORC §4510.61, Article V

The OBMV imposes a block when a driver is applying for or renewing an Ohio license and is under
suspension in another state or held a license in another state which is suspended. The block is triggered
when the OBMV processes a driver through the Problem Drivers Pointer System, formerly through the
National Driver Registry.
The OBMV searches the Pointer System when…
1. A person is requesting an Ohio driver's license for the first time and is over 18 years of age
2. A person is renewing an Ohio driver's license
2. An Ohio driver is being re-tested due to reinstatement requirements
3. An out of state, licensed driver applies for an Ohio license.

Driver License Compact Suspension Due to Certain Out Of State Convictions - ORC

§ 4510.61, Article IV
The OBMV imposes a suspension when it receives notice from another state that an Ohio driver was
convicted of a traffic violation in the non-resident state. For the purpose of suspension, revocation or
limitation of the driver's license, the OBMV will give the same effect to the conviction as it would if the
conviction had occurred in Ohio.

Out-Of-State Alcohol Conviction Suspension – ORC §4510.17

The OBMV imposes a suspension when a driver pleads guilty to or is convicted of a violation of a statute of
any other state or out-of-state municipal ordinance similar to Section ORC §4511.19.

Reference:

http://ohiojudges.org/Document.ashx?DocGuid=c2a247cf-1e4d-460e-8b0d-9d48c5764ac2

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What happens if I apply for an Ohio driver's license with a suspended out-of-state license?

If you apply for an Ohio driver's license while your out-of-state license is suspended, Ohio will likely discover this during their background check. This could result in your application being denied. Ohio uses the Problem Drivers Pointer System to check for any suspensions or violations from other states, which can affect your eligibility (ORC § 4510.61). Always resolve any suspensions before applying for a new license in Ohio. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

Can I get an Ohio driver's license if I have an alcohol-related conviction from another state?

If you have an alcohol-related conviction from another state, Ohio may suspend your ability to obtain a driver's license. This is based on the principle that Ohio treats out-of-state violations as if they occurred within the state (ORC § 4510.17). It's advisable to resolve any outstanding issues related to your conviction before applying for a license in Ohio. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

How does Ohio check my driving record when I apply for a license?

When you apply for an Ohio driver's license, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles checks your driving record through the Problem Drivers Pointer System. This system includes information from the National Driver Registry, which tracks suspensions and violations across states. This check is standard for first-time applicants, renewals, and out-of-state transfers. If any issues are found, your application may be denied. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What should I do if my Michigan license is suspended and I moved to Ohio?

If your Michigan license is suspended and you have moved to Ohio, your best course of action is to address the suspension in Michigan before applying for an Ohio license. Ohio will likely deny your application if they find out about the suspension during their background check. Contact Michigan's licensing authority to understand the steps needed for reinstatement. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.