Secretary of State seeking driving testers in Gogebic County

Applicants sought to operate testing site in Ironwood/Bessemer area

LANSING, Mich. – The state of Michigan has an opportunity in Gogebic County for an individual or organization that would be interested in operating a driving skills testing site in the Ironwood/Bessemer area.

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said her office would like to contract with an individual, business, local municipality or school to offer skills testing for drivers as part of the state’s network of testing providers.

Third-party testing businesses and examiners must meet business standards, including:

• Have access to a testing location measuring at least 50 feet by 100 feet with a surface in good condition and free of hazards.
• Be willing and able to regularly conduct testing.
• Respond promptly to phone calls from customers.
• Maintain an email address for communications with the Secretary of State’s Office that is checked regularly.
• Maintain general business liability insurance and a surety bond.
• Prepare and maintain records and submit monthly reports.

Owners and operators must have an acceptable driving record, undergo a criminal background check and complete a medical examination. A person also must successfully complete a five-day training class in Lansing to be approved as an examiner. After initial training, the business would take about 200 to 250 hours per year to operate, with the summer months being busier.

For more information, interested parties should email thirdpartytesting@michigan.gov or call Tom Bryant at (517) 241-6850. Do not inquire at a local Secretary of State office.