Local Transportation
You have many choices when it comes to getting around Dearborn and beyond.
Automobile
Cars are the most convenient form of transportation. However, they also require significant financial investments to pay for the car itself, insurance, car registration, fuel, and repairs—not to mention driver’s education classes and a license.
To learn about parking on campus, visit Parking and Transportation.
If you wish to drive in Michigan, the law requires that you obtain a driver’s license by taking both written and driving skills tests. This license also serves as a valid form of personal identification.
If you don’t drive, you must have a Michigan personal identification (ID) card to prove your identity. You will need this state-issued form of identification to sign up for utilities and other kinds of services. Your passport or student ID will not be accepted.
Wait for at least 2 weeks after your initial entry into the U.S. before you apply for your driver’s license or state ID. This allows time for your immigration and other paperwork to be processed.
- Follow this link for a step-to-step guide to help you get your driver's license.
- Visit any Secretary of State branch office to apply for your Michigan driver’s license or state ID card.
Dearborn Secretary of State
5094 Schaefer
Dearborn, MI 48126
888-767-6424
Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9am - 5pm
Wednesday: 11am - 7pm
Dearborn Heights/Redford Secretary of State
25700 Joy Road
Redford, MI 48239
Michigan law requires automobile insurance if you own a vehicle. The automobile owner is financially responsible for damage to property or injury to another person in case of an accident. These are the types of automobile insurance:Automobile insurance
- Liability: The state requires that all car owners have at least liability insurance to protect the owner from liability in the case of injury, death, or damage to others.
- Collision: Compensates the policyholder in case of an accident with another car.
- Comprehensive: Covers losses from vandalism, theft, fire, or other specified hazards.
- Medical Payment: Pays for medical expenses of the policyholder and passengers injured in an automobile accident, regardless of fault.
Most companies offer a package policy that includes both property and liability coverage. Most also give you a discount if you purchase more than one kind of insurance with them (i.e., a policy for your car as well as for your home).
The cost of automobile insurance varies from company to company. Rates depend on a number of factors:
- the age and type of car
- where you live
- your age and driving record
- how many people use the car and their ages and driving records
Your rates can increase if you cause an accident or are convicted of certain traffic violations such as speeding.
Compare rates and benefits before you decide on a company. Below are listed some national companies with local offices in Dearborn. Other insurance companies are available online.
Local Agencies:
Online:
Rideshare and Car Rentals
To learn more about alternative forms of transport by car, visit Parking and Transportation.
Public Transportation
It is quite possible to live in Dearborn without owning a car. Buses operate throughout Dearborn and the surrounding metro areas.
| Bus | Type of service | Other info |
|---|---|---|
| UM-Dearborn shuttle bus | Free on-campus shuttle | |
| Smart Bus | Regional bus system for Southeast Michigan | |
| Smart Commuter | Provides advance reservation transportation to people with disabilities within Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, and Inkster. | 866-962-5515 Monday - Friday Make your reservation 48 hours ahead. Same day reservations are sometimes accepted but not guaranteed. The cost is $2.00 one way. |
| DDOT | The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) is the largest public transit provider in Michigan that serves the City of Detroit, surrounding suburbs, and neighboring cities, including Highland Park and Hamtramck. | |
| Megabus | Frequent schedules to Chicago | |
| Greyhound | Travel across the U.S. | |
| Amtrak | Train travel across the U.S. | Trains are not a major mode of transportation in the U.S.; however, some students find the train a good way to see the country during vacation periods. There is a convenient train station in Dearborn located at 21201 Michigan Ave Dearborn, MI 48124, 800-872-724. |