How to Renew Your Minnesota Driver's License

Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your Minnesota driver's license at any Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office across the state, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is usually an in-person visit to your nearest DVS office, where you can complete the renewal the same day. If you renew by mail, the process takes two to three weeks from the time DVS receives your process.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of residence (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, you'll also need a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're renewing a Real ID-compliant license, the requirements are the same.

To renew by mail, you must be at least 65 years old, have a valid Minnesota license that hasn't been suspended or revoked, and not need to update your photo. Request a mail renewal process by calling DVS at 651-296-6911 or visiting the Minnesota Secretary of State website. Mail your completed process, current license, and proof of residence to the address provided with the form.

Key Takeaways

You can renew in person at any DVS office the same day, or by mail in two to three weeks if you're 65 or older and don't need a new photo.
Bring your current license, proof of residence dated within three months, and your Social Security number to any DVS office.
If your name has changed, you must provide a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order along with your other documents.
Your Minnesota license is valid for eight years if you're under 65, or until age 85 if you're 65 or older.

How long your renewed license lasts

A renewed Minnesota driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue if you're under 65 years old. If you're 65 or older at the time of renewal, your license is valid until your 85th birthday. Once your license expires, you cannot legally drive in Minnesota, so renewing before the expiration date on your current license is important.

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Many people renew early to avoid the rush near their expiration date or to coordinate with other tasks like vehicle registration renewal.

Real ID compliance and what it means for renewal

Minnesota driver's licenses are Real ID-compliant by default. This means your license meets federal standards for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. You don't need to do anything special during renewal to keep Real ID status — it carries over automatically.

If you're renewing in person, you'll see a gold star or marking on your new license indicating Real ID compliance. If you renew by mail and are 65 or older, your renewed license will also be Real ID-compliant. Starting May 7, 2025, you'll need a Real ID-compliant license or another approved form of identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility.

Renewing online is not an option in Minnesota

Minnesota does not offer online driver's license renewal. Your only options are in-person at a DVS office or by mail if you meet the age and condition requirements. Some states have added online renewal in recent years, but Minnesota has not yet implemented this service.

If you're unable to visit a DVS office in person, the mail renewal option is your alternative. You can also have someone else pick up your renewed license on your behalf if you provide them with a signed authorization form, available on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

DVS office locations and wait times

Minnesota has DVS offices in most counties, with multiple locations in the Twin Cities and other larger cities. You can find your nearest office and current wait times on the Minnesota Secretary of State website. Wait times vary by location and time of day — early morning and mid-week visits typically have shorter waits than afternoons and Fridays.

You do not need an appointment for a standard license renewal at most DVS offices, though some locations offer appointment scheduling. Check your local office's website or call ahead to confirm whether appointments are available or recommended in your area.

What happens if your license has been suspended or revoked

If your Minnesota driver's license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. Revocation is more serious and typically results from DWI convictions or habitual traffic offender status.

To find out whether your license is suspended or revoked, check the Minnesota Secretary of State website or call DVS. If your license is suspended, you'll need to resolve the underlying issue — paying fines, clearing child support arrears, or completing a required course — before you can renew. If your license is revoked, you may be able to request reinstatement after a waiting period, which varies depending on the reason for revocation.

Renewing a license that expired more than one year ago

If your Minnesota driver's license expired more than one year ago, you cannot straightforward renew it. You must explore for a new license instead, which requires an in-person visit to a DVS office. Bring the same documents you would for a renewal — your expired license, proof of residence, and your Social Security number — plus proof of your Minnesota residency if your address has changed.

The process for a new license process takes about the same time as a renewal when done in person. You'll receive your new license the same day. If you've moved out of state and are now returning to Minnesota, you'll also need to explore for a new license rather than renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I don't have proof of residence?

No, proof of residence dated within the last three months is required for in-person renewal. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax statement in your name. If you don't have any of these, contact your DVS office to ask about alternative documents they may accept.

What if I lost my Social Security number or don't have it memorized?

You'll need your Social Security number to renew your license. If you don't have it, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to request a replacement Social Security card before your DVS appointment.

How much does it cost to renew a Minnesota driver's license?

The renewal fee for a standard Minnesota driver's license is $24.50 for an eight-year renewal if you're under 65. If you're 65 or older, the fee is $13.50 for a renewal valid until age 85. Fees are subject to change, so check the Minnesota Secretary of State website for current pricing.

Can I renew my license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, you can renew a Minnesota driver's license if you're a lawful permanent resident or have valid work authorization. You'll need to provide proof of your immigration status along with your other documents. Contact your local DVS office if you're unsure what documents to bring.

What if my name changed since my last license?

Bring a document proving your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your current license and proof of residence. The DVS office will update your name during the renewal process at no additional cost.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.