Michigan Driver's License Issue Date
Your Michigan driver's license issue date appears as "ISS" on the front of the card, printed in the lower portion right next to the expiration date (EXP). On a Michigan Secretary of State-issued license, ISS marks the day the current physical card was printed — not the day you first qualified to drive in Michigan.
"ISS" is short for "Issue Date" — the day your current license card was printed. It is not necessarily the day you first became a licensed driver in the state.
What does "DD" mean on a Michigan license?
DD is the Document Discriminator, a unique serial number tied to that one printed card. It changes whenever the Michigan SOS reissues your license.
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What does "RSTR" mean on a Michigan license?
RSTR is Restrictions — common Michigan codes include "A" for corrective lenses, "B" for an outside mirror, and graduated driver license restrictions for drivers under 18.
What is the difference between a Standard, REAL ID, and Enhanced license?
A Standard license works for driving and most everyday ID purposes. A REAL ID (gold star in the upper corner) is federally accepted for domestic flights. An Enhanced Michigan license additionally lets you cross land and sea borders from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean without a passport.
How long is a Michigan driver's license valid?
A standard Michigan driver's license is valid for 4 years. Renewals are available online, by mail, or in person at any Michigan SOS branch.
Need an older issue date?
If you need the date you were first licensed in Michigan (for an insurance discount, employment screening, or a CDL application), that information lives in your full driving record — not on the plastic card. Request it from the Michigan Secretary of State at https://www.michigan.gov/sos/license-id.
For a visual tour of every state's driver license design, see our full guide.
