License Reexamination Hearings

The Michigan Secretary of State has the legal ability to call in a licensed driver to “re-examine” his/her fitness to drive.  Typically, this process---called a Reexamination---occurs when the SOS receives notice that a person is unfit to drive and/or a danger to be on the road.  Common situations leading to Reexamination include:

• Medical issues, such as epilepsy/seizure disorders; glaucoma, cataracts and eyesight issues; physical/dexterity issues; and auditory concerns.
• Point accumulation due to civil infractions.
• Accidents occurring in a short period of time.
• Infractions occurring during a driver’s probationary period.  
• Infractions committed by elderly drivers.

Reexamination hearings are usually held at the SOS location closest to the driver’s home address, and are conducted by employees called “Hearing Officers” (which differ from the Administrative Law Judges who conduct license reinstatement hearings, as they are all licensed attorneys).  They typically involve physical tests, including seeing and hearing examinations, as well as written and road/driving tests with the Officer.  Many times, the Officer will request that the driver bring in medical documentation when relevant to the hearing.  Following the Reexamination, the Officer can do nothing, or can restrict or suspend the driver’s privileges.  

A driver can choose to bring a license appeals attorney with him/her to the Reexamination. The attorney can (and should) assist the client in preparing for the hearing.  If the driver is ultimately suspended or restricted, the attorney may be able to file for relief in the driver’s county of residence Circuit Court, seeking to override or modify the Officer’s decision.  

If you or a loved one has received notice of a Reexamination—or have suffered a license suspension following such a hearing—please give our firm a call.  As dedicated license appeals specialists, we have handled virtually every type of Reexamination hearing imaginable, and at SOS locations throughout Michigan.

The Geherin Law Group:  We are the key to putting you back in the driver’s seat.