Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Initial Consultation: $125
  
• Evaluation Interview/Assessment: $425
• 12-panel drug test: $100

• Photo ID (State-issued ID or Passport)
  
• Current SOM Driving Record
• Please bring any prior substance abuse evaluations you have received.
• All counseling and peer/community support documentation or certificates (such as AA signature sheets, Mothers Against Drunk Driving Victim Impact Panel, or Alcohol Highway Safety Education Class certificates).
• Attorney’s name and contact information (if applicable)
• Support testimonial letters (notarization not required at this stage)
• Any prior DLA hearing orders (denials or approvals with restrictions)
• Current BAIID (ignition interlock device) annual report, if applicable
• Complete all required intake forms on the TherapyNotes platform.
• Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking or have previously been prescribed.

Many drivers are uncertain when their revocation or suspension period officially ends. Obtain a driving record, which will indicate all actions taken against your license and clearly provide eligibility dates for applying for reinstatement.

• A suspension typically has an automatic end date.
  
• A revocation generally requires a formal hearing and documented proof of sobriety.

Common confusion often surrounds having two alcohol-related convictions within seven years or three alcohol-related convictions within ten years. These situations trigger mandatory revocation periods.

Often requires a substance abuse evaluation, drug and/or alcohol testing, letters of support, and demonstrated abstinence.

Hearing officers generally expect a substantial and sustained period of sobriety. You must demonstrate complete abstinence from alcohol and any non-prescribed controlled substances. Due to your history (three or more convictions, relapse history, and prior diagnosis of dependence), the State of Michigan requires a minimum of twelve consecutive months of sobriety. “Abstinence” means no alcohol use whatsoever—not occasional, social, or even a single drink. You must prove this by clear and convincing evidence, which represents a high legal standard.

Based on experience, hearing officers will focus heavily on:

• Your sobriety date
  
• Relapse prevention plan
• Understanding of triggers
• Lifestyle changes
• Support system
• Treatment/recovery participation
• Insight into past alcohol misuse
• Why future impaired driving is unlikely

Drivers frequently struggle with formatting and content requirements. The letter should identify the writer, describe their relationship to the client, how long they have known the client, and how frequently they interact. It should also state the last time the writer observed the client using alcohol or drugs, including the amount used, or clearly indicate if they have never witnessed such use. Finally, the letter should discuss the client’s leisure activities, whether those activities involve alcohol, and any participation in recovery or support programs (such as Alcoholics Anonymous).

No, but applicants must typically demonstrate a strong and sustained commitment to sobriety.

Yes. You must request an administrative review through the Michigan Secretary of State.

A Michigan “administrative review summary” is the written decision from the Secretary of State after reviewing an out-of-state license clearance request, typically for someone with an OWI/DUI revocation. For out-of-state residents, an administrative review is a paperwork-only alternative to a live hearing. Michigan reviews your submitted documents to decide whether to grant a clearance, deny the request, or require additional action.Key points for out-of-state residents:

• You usually do not need to travel to Michigan for any step of the process.
  
• Hearings, if needed, are often conducted virtually.
• Michigan can provide a “clearance” without granting you a Michigan license.
• Your new state may still have its own reinstatement requirements, even after Michigan grants clearance.

Most former Michigan residents living elsewhere take this route. A clearance removes Michigan’s hold, allowing your new state to decide on licensing independently. 616 SUD Services conducts administrative review evaluations the same way for both out-of-state and in-state residents.

Yes, unless your denial order states otherwise, you must usually wait 12 months before reapplying.

(FMCSA regulated drivers only) The Clearinghouse is a national database that logs violations since 2020.Records remain at least five years or until SAP follow-up is complete. Employers must check records andcannot hire until SAP compliance is confirmed.

Yes. DOT requires every employee with a violation to be evaluated by a qualified SAP.

No. Employers can only accept recommendations from a qualified SAP.

DOT doesn’t specify who pays. Some employers cover the cost or use Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs),but many require employees to pay. Check your employer’s policy or ask if unsure.

The SAP service fee is $700. This covers only the SAP evaluations and does not include any additionaltreatment costs that may be required.

There is no alternative. You must comply with SAP’s recommendation and either pay for the treatment plan orseek employment outside the transportation industry. The SAP’s recommendation is final and cannot be changed.

No. Once you begin the SAP evaluation process, you cannot get a second opinion from another SAP—even ifyou disagree with the recommendation or your insurance doesn’t cover it. Seeking a second opinion may resultin DOT fines for you and your employer.

The timeline depends on your SAP’s recommended treatment plan and your compliance. Most processes take afew weeks to a few months.

DOT requires the follow-up testing schedule to remain confidential. Neither the SAP nor your employer canshare the schedule with you. All tests are unannounced, and your employer may be fined for missed tests.

Who pays for follow-up tests is up to your employer. Some cover the cost, but most require employees to pay.If your employer’s policy isn’t clear, ask for clarification.

If you test positive again, you must repeat the full return-to-duty process, including SAP evaluation andrecommended treatment. Many employers terminate employees after a second violation. If terminated, youmust complete the SAP process before applying for another DOT safety-sensitive job.