The Substance Abuse Evaluation and Driver's License Restoration in Michigan

If you've lost your license to a DUI or other alcohol related offense in Michigan, you will need to satisfy the substance abuse evaluation before you can get your drivers license restored.

The substance abuse evaluation is one of the most important documents submitted in order to try to restore your driving privileges.  It is critical to prove that your alcohol problem is under control and likely to remain so in the future.

The Evaluation

You will make an appointment with a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist to have your substance abuse condition evaluated. It should be someone that regularly treats individuals with alcohol and drug use problems. The evaluator will fill out a form called a substance use disorders evaluation form. This form will be submitted to the Michigan Secretary of State for consideration at your driver’s license restoration hearing.  Much of the information filled out on the substance use disorders evaluation form will be provided by you. Therefore, it is very important to be as accurate as possible with the substance abuse evaluator. This will enable the evaluator to accurately fill out the form.

Your Criminal History

You will have to provide information about your conviction history, including all alcohol and drug-related offenses.  This provides some information to the evaluator about the extent of your problem.

You will be asked to provide information about your treatment history. This is important information because it tells the substance abuse evaluator whether you have had an opportunity to treat your condition and whether the treatment was successful.

Self-Help Support Groups

The substance abuse evaluator will also get information about your lifetime support group history. This is usually information about your attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous. The evaluator will want to know what period of time you've attended AA, the frequency and whether or not you have a sponsor. This information lets the evaluator know whether you have a support system in place so that you are less likely to relapse in the future.

Relapses & Drug Tests

The evaluator will obtain information regarding any relapses. The length of time you have been abstinent and any previous relapses are important to your diagnosis.

The evaluator will also have you take written tests, which will help the evaluator determine an appropriate diagnosis. A 10-panel drug screen will also be administered. A negative drug screen helps confirm you are abstinent.

Result of the Evaluation

Once the evaluator has all the information, the evaluator will provide a diagnosis, prognosis and whether or not anything further is required, such as professional treatment, education and continued AA.

Because the evaluator is a professional in the area of abuse, the evaluator's conclusions are important in determining whether your Michigan drivers license restoration case is successful.

Disclaimer:  The information you obtain from this article is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice or the formation of an attorney – client relationship. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.