What drug screen is required for a Michigan OHAO license appeal?

A comprehensive 12-panel urinalysis drug screen with integrity variables (specific gravity, creatinine, and pH levels) is required.

Michigan DLAD Hearing Preparation: How to Restore Your Driver’s License

Q: What agency handles driver's license restoration hearings in Michigan?

Driver's license restoration appeals and hearings in Michigan are conducted by the Secretary of State's Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight (OHAO), formerly known as the Driver License Appeal Division (DLAD).

Developing a thorough Michigan DLAD hearing preparation strategy is essential to regaining your driving privileges. If you are seeking a trusted Flint license restoration lawyer, Attorney Justin Henry provides comprehensive guidance for administrative appeals across Grand Blanc, Flint, and Genesee County.

While traditionally known as a DLAD hearing, administrative driver’s license appeals in Michigan are officially handled by the Secretary of State’s Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight (OHAO). If your license was suspended or revoked after an OWI/DUI, an OHAO hearing is your opportunity to present clear and convincing evidence of recovery, demonstrate personal responsibility, and show that you are safe to return to the road.

If you are looking for guidance on your original charge, review our guide on how to handle an initial DUI charge in Michigan.

Required Documents for an OHAO/DLAD Hearing

To succeed at a driver’s license restoration hearing, you must present a complete, error-free documentation packet. Missing or incomplete paperwork can lead to an immediate denial.

Hearing Request Application: The official form that initiates your hearing request with the Secretary of State.
Substance Use Evaluation: A critical document completed by a licensed evaluator. It must be dated within 90 days of submission, detail your full substance use history, and provide a professional prognosis on your sobriety.
12-Panel Urinalysis Drug Screen: A comprehensive 12-panel drug test (including ETG/ETS testing) with integrity variables such as specific gravity, creatinine, and pH levels to verify sample validity.
Ignition Interlock Final Report: If you previously held a restricted license, you must provide your final interlock report, vendor logs, and proof of full compliance.
Evidence of Support: Documentation showing active participation in recovery efforts, such as AA/NA attendance logs, sponsor letters, or structured therapy completion.

Additional Documents That Strengthen Your Case

Community Support Letters: Submit 3 to 6 notarized letters from family, employers, and peers who can personally verify your specific sobriety date, lifestyle changes, and character.
Medical Documentation (DA-4P Form): If you take prescription medications for physical or mental health conditions, your doctor must complete a DA-4P form detailing how the medication impacts your driving ability.
Certificates of Completion: Include verification from inpatient programs, outpatient counseling, or Sobriety Court graduation.

Why Work with a Flint License Restoration Lawyer?

Review Common Hearing Questions: Be prepared to discuss your past offenses, triggers, relapse prevention plan, and daily support system in detail.
Practice Consistent Testimony: Your answers must reflect complete honesty, accountability, and depth of insight regarding your past substance use.
Work with an Experienced Restoration Attorney: Navigating OHAO rules requires specialized legal expertise. Working with an experienced Flint license restoration lawyer ensures your evaluation is complete, prepares you for questioning, and gives you strong representation before the hearing officer.

Contact Attorney Justin Henry

If you are preparing for a driver’s license restoration hearing in Michigan, early preparation is critical to securing your driving privileges.

Justin Henry, Attorney at Law

8161 S Saginaw St, Grand Blanc, MI 48439

Phone: (810) 694-1211