Electric vehicles are booming across the U.S., and Tesla remains at the forefront of this revolution. As more consumers look to make the switch to electric, state laws still complicate how and where people can buy Teslas. This brings up a pressing question for Michigan residents: Can you buy a Tesla in Michigan?
For years, Michigan was one of the most difficult places to buy a Tesla due to long-standing franchise laws and intense lobbying from traditional auto dealerships. However, recent changes have made the Tesla-buying journey in Michigan a bit more straightforward—though it’s still not as simple as walking into a dealership and driving off in a Model Y.
In this blog post, we’ll explore whether you can buy a Tesla in Michigan, how the purchasing process has changed, what legal battles influenced the change, and how Michigan compares to other states. We’ll also answer key WH questions, such as when, why, and how Michigan residents can now purchase their dream EVs.
We’ll go through real-time facts, legal updates, Tesla’s workarounds, and practical tips for Michigan buyers. If you’re a Michigan resident wondering about your chances of owning a Tesla without crossing state lines, this detailed article has all the answers you need.
Can You Buy a Tesla in Michigan?
Yes, you can now buy a Tesla in Michigan, but not in the traditional sense. Due to prior legal restrictions, Tesla couldn’t directly sell its vehicles in the state. However, after a 2020 legal settlement, Tesla can now deliver cars and offer services within Michigan, although you’ll still have to order online. So, you can buy a Tesla in Michigan, but the process is slightly different than in other states.
Why was buying a Tesla in Michigan once nearly impossible?
For years, buying a Tesla in Michigan was a complicated, often frustrating process due to the state’s strict franchise laws. Tesla’s direct-to-consumer sales model challenged the traditional dealership system long embedded in Michigan’s auto industry. These laws were designed to protect franchise dealers from being bypassed by automakers, effectively blocking Tesla from selling or servicing its vehicles within the state.
As a result, Tesla enthusiasts in Michigan were forced to travel to neighbouring states like Ohio or Illinois to purchase their vehicles. Tesla was also barred from operating showrooms or branded service centres, making ownership a logistical hassle.
The situation changed in 2020 after Tesla filed a lawsuit against Michigan, arguing that the state’s laws were unconstitutional. While the settlement didn’t fully overturn the franchise rules, it allowed Tesla to deliver cars to Michigan customers and operate service centres under certain conditions.
Today, residents can order a Tesla online and have it delivered to their home or a local service centre. While traditional in-store sales remain restricted, this workaround has significantly improved access to Tesla vehicles in Michigan. Interest in electric vehicles continues to rise, and Tesla’s growing presence reflects that shift in consumer demand.
How does the Tesla purchase process work in Michigan now?
Start Your Journey Online
In Michigan, the Tesla buying experience begins entirely online. Since Tesla is still not permitted to operate traditional dealerships in the state, Michigan buyers must initiate their purchase through the official Tesla website. Here, customers can browse the available models, customize their vehicle with desired features and packages, and explore pricing options. The online platform serves as a virtual showroom, offering detailed insights into each model’s range, performance, and specifications.
Placing Your Order
Once you’ve designed your ideal Tesla, the next step is to place an order. Tesla requires a small, non-refundable deposit to secure the vehicle for production or delivery. This step confirms your commitment and reserves your customized Tesla in the company’s system. At this stage, most communication is handled via your Tesla account and email updates, keeping the process seamless and efficient.
Delivery Options in Michigan
Thanks to the 2020 legal settlement between Tesla and the state of Michigan, buyers now have more flexibility in receiving their vehicles. Customers can opt for direct home delivery in eligible zip codes or choose to pick up their Tesla at a Michigan-based service centre. This marks a significant improvement from the past when out-of-state travel was necessary.
Completing the Paperwork
Tesla takes care of the majority of title and registration paperwork digitally. However, Michigan residents may still be required to visit their local Secretary of State office to complete certain tasks, such as obtaining license plates.
Access to Local Service
Tesla now operates branded service centres within Michigan, offering routine maintenance, repairs, and support. This availability has eased post-purchase concerns for buyers, making Tesla ownership more convenient than ever in the state.
What are the current options for buying a Tesla in Michigan?
Michigan residents now have several practical and legal ways to purchase a Tesla despite the state’s unique automotive sales laws. Below are the most current and accessible options for buying or leasing a Tesla in Michigan:
- Order Online Through Tesla.com: This is the primary and most straightforward method. Customers can browse available Tesla models, customize their vehicles, and place an order directly through the website. It ensures a legal and seamless purchase without the need to visit a physical dealership.
- Use Tesla’s Mobile App for Updates: After placing an order, Tesla’s mobile app becomes the central hub for managing your purchase. It allows buyers to track the status of their vehicle, schedule delivery, upload necessary documents, and receive notifications in real-time.
- Pick-Up From Tesla Delivery Centers: Tesla service centers in Michigan now support vehicle pick-up. After your vehicle is ready, you’ll receive instructions on how and where to collect it within the state.
- Get Direct Home Delivery: Tesla offers direct home delivery in many parts of Michigan. If you live in an eligible area, your new Tesla can be delivered straight to your driveway, adding convenience and eliminating the need for travel.
- Buy a Used Tesla from a Private Seller: The private resale market in Michigan is active. Purchasing a used Tesla from an individual seller is legal and can be completed through the standard vehicle registration process.
- Lease Options via Tesla Finance: If you’re not ready to purchase, Tesla’s leasing program is available online. You can apply for a lease, get approval, and schedule delivery all through Tesla’s digital platform.
When did the legal changes happen—and what do they mean?
The pivotal change in Tesla’s ability to serve Michigan customers occurred in January 2020, following a legal battle that began in 2016. Tesla had filed a lawsuit against the State of Michigan, arguing that its prohibition on direct manufacturer-to-consumer vehicle sales was unconstitutional and unfairly favoured traditional dealership models. Although the settlement did not fully repeal the law, it granted Tesla a series of crucial concessions that significantly improved access for Michigan consumers.
Under the terms of the agreement, Tesla gained the right to deliver vehicles directly to customers in Michigan and to operate branded service centres throughout the state. Additionally, Tesla was allowed to assist buyers with registration paperwork, though standard processing through the Michigan Secretary of State is still required.
This legal compromise marked a turning point for Tesla enthusiasts in Michigan. While the state still prohibits traditional showroom sales, the impact of that restriction has lessened. Tesla now has an active presence in cities like Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids, making ownership and service far more accessible than in the past.
Is Michigan Tesla-friendly yet?
While Michigan once posed significant challenges to Tesla ownership, the state has grown increasingly accommodating to Tesla buyers in recent years. The legal landscape still enforces some limitations, but most practical barriers have been resolved. Here’s how Tesla’s presence functions across different aspects of the Michigan market:
- Dealership Restrictions Remain: Tesla is still not permitted to operate traditional franchised dealerships in Michigan. The state’s franchise laws are intact, which means customers cannot walk into a physical Tesla store to purchase a vehicle. However, Tesla’s online ordering system has filled this gap effectively.
- Home Delivery Is Widely Available: Tesla has expanded its delivery infrastructure to cover much of Michigan. While availability depends on the buyer’s zip code, most metro regions now support direct home delivery or pickup from local Tesla centres.
- Digital Support for Registration: Tesla provides digital assistance for most aspects of the vehicle registration process. Although final steps like obtaining license plates may require a visit to the Michigan Secretary of State’s office, the bulk of the paperwork is handled online, streamlining the process.
- Supercharger Network Expansion: Michigan’s Supercharger coverage has grown steadily, with Tesla stations located along major highways and in urban areas. This makes EV travel and daily commuting much more convenient for Tesla owners throughout the state.
- Local Service Centers in Operation: Tesla now operates branded service centres in Michigan, including locations in Detroit and Ann Arbor. These facilities offer scheduled maintenance, diagnostics, and repair services, making post-purchase support accessible and reliable.
In Closing
Yes, you can now buy a Tesla in Michigan—and the road to ownership has never been smoother. While the state’s franchise laws technically still block direct in-store sales, Tesla’s 2020 legal breakthrough opened new doors. Michigan residents can now order their vehicles online, choose home delivery or local pickup, and access service centres without crossing state lines.
This modern buying model eliminates the old frustrations and makes Tesla ownership a reality in the heart of America’s auto industry. Michigan is no longer off-limits for Tesla enthusiasts. Whether you’re making the switch to electric for the first time or adding to your EV collection, the state now fully supports your Tesla journey—without compromise.
FAQ’s
Q. Is it legal to buy a Tesla in Michigan in 2025?
A. Yes, it’s completely legal. Michigan residents can now purchase Teslas online and have them delivered directly within the state, thanks to a 2020 legal agreement that bypassed previous dealership restrictions.
Q. Can I test-drive a Tesla in Michigan?
A. While you can’t walk into a traditional Tesla dealership, the company occasionally hosts pop-up events across Michigan where test drives are offered. Check Tesla’s website or app for upcoming test drive opportunities near you.
Q. Where can I pick up my Tesla in Michigan?
A. Tesla offers pickup options at select service centres located in cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor. Once your vehicle is ready, you’ll be guided through the process for a seamless pickup experience.
Q. Do I need to go out of state to buy a Tesla?
A. No, there’s no need to leave Michigan. Tesla now provides local delivery options and has in-state service infrastructure, eliminating the need for cross-border travel to complete a purchase.
Q. Is Tesla’s service network reliable in Michigan?
A. Yes, Tesla has expanded its service network across Michigan with multiple authorized service centres and mobile technicians. This ensures timely support and repairs for Tesla owners throughout the state.
