OCTOBER 7, 2003

Michigan residents who leave for warmer climates during the winter should remember to renew their license plates and driver’s licenses beforehand, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land said today.

Seasonal residents – commonly called "snowbirds" – should check the expiration dates of their driver’s licenses and plates before leaving Michigan. This will save them the trouble of renewing while they are out of state.

"The Department of State is always looking for ways to serve customers with greater speed and convenience," Land said. "Taking advantage of our early renewal options will help seasonal residents enjoy their trips to the fullest. With a little planning, travelers can take care of this important business before leaving home. Snowbirds should have nothing but fun and sun on their minds when they reach their destinations."

Driver’s licenses and license plates registered to an individual for certain vehicles can be renewed up to six months prior to expiration. Plates that can be renewed early are:

• Vehicle plates expiring on the owner’s birthday, including leased vehicles.
• All pickup trucks and vans, regardless of weight.
• All trailers and trailer coaches.

Customers renewing plates six months early must do so at a branch office. They can, however, take advantage of the department’s online plate renewal process up to 45 days before the expiration date if they have a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that has been assigned to the vehicle.

The law does not allow motorcycle plates or company-owned passenger plates to be renewed early.

For more information on renewal options and other services, visit the Department of State Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos.

Editor’s note: Radio actualities are available by calling the Department of State news line at (517) 241-2800.