FY27 annual permits opened June 1, 2026; Student Storage ordering opened June 15 at 8 a.m.
Source ↗Car rules and parking at University of Michigan
First-year students can bring a car only under restrictions.
Start with the eligibility details below, then weigh permit cost, timing, overnight access, and transit. Source ↗
At a glance
Parking snapshot
Student Storage is limited to 130 permits, sold first come, first served, with a waitlist after sellout.
Source 1 ↗Source 2 ↗Vehicles may remain 48 hours or longer only in designated Housing and Student Storage areas with a valid permit; several Ross and west-side lots prohibit overnight parking.
Source ↗FY27 Student Storage runs July 1 through June 30, and designated storage areas are exempt from the general 48-hour limit subject to posted restrictions.
Source 1 ↗Source 2 ↗Who qualifies
Eligibility details
On-campus first-year resident
All students, including freshmen and sophomores, may buy Student Storage parking intended for students living on campus who need occasional vehicle access.
Source ↗Commuter
Freshmen and sophomores do not qualify for ordinary student commuter permits; juniors and seniors may buy Student Orange parking.
Source ↗Upperclass student
Juniors and seniors are eligible for Student Orange permits; graduate students have additional permit options.
Source ↗Accommodation or exception
A student with a state-issued accessible placard or plate is eligible for a complimentary Blue permit; other disability accommodations go through Student Accessibility and Accommodation Services.
Source ↗If you skip the car
Primary car-free alternative
U-M operates 12 free campus bus routes, and active students with an Mcard ride TheRide fixed routes without paying a fare.
Source 1 ↗Source 2 ↗Test it against your routineCommon questions
University of Michigan car and parking FAQ
Can freshmen have cars at University of Michigan?
First-year students can bring a car only under restrictions. All students, including freshmen and sophomores, may buy Student Storage parking intended for students living on campus who need occasional vehicle access.
How much is a parking permit at University of Michigan?
$624 / year. The FY27 permit year is July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 and prorates after July 1.
When do University of Michigan parking permits go on sale?
FY27 annual permits opened June 1, 2026; Student Storage ordering opened June 15 at 8 a.m.
Is a car worth it at University of Michigan?
It depends on your routine and permit access. The official sources identify U-M operates 12 free campus bus routes, and active students with an Mcard ride TheRide fixed routes without paying a fare. as a car-free option. Use the decision tool to weigh your own travel needs.
Trace the answer
Cited official sources
These verified university sources support the current claims above. Follow each link for the full policy.
Parking permit eligibility ↗
All students, including freshmen and sophomores, may purchase Student Storage. Juniors and seniors may buy Student Orange; other student commuter products are class-limited.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedNew campus parking permit rates effective July 1, 2026 ↗
FY27 Student Storage costs $624. Ordering opened June 15 at 8 a.m.; permits are limited, first come, first served, and use a waitlist after sellout.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedStudent Storage permit ↗
Student Storage has 130 spaces across NC32 and SC34. The page lists FY27 pricing from $624 at the start of the July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027 permit year, prorated later.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedAccessible parking ↗
Students with a state-issued accessible placard or plate may obtain a complimentary Blue permit; other student requests go through accessibility services.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedParking rules and regulations ↗
The general 48-hour limit does not apply in designated Housing and Student Storage areas with a valid permit; named Ross and west-side lots prohibit overnight parking.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedCampus transit rider guide ↗
U-M operates 12 campus bus routes that are open to the public without a fare or ID requirement.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedMRide ↗
Active students with a valid yellow Mcard have unlimited access to TheRide's regular fixed-route buses without paying a fare.
University of Michigan Logistics, Transportation and Parking · Checked 2026-08-01 · verifiedKeep comparing