Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Minnesota driver's license in person at any Deputy Registrar office or at a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. The Deputy Registrar network includes county auditor offices, some city halls, and private licensing agents scattered across the state—there are over 100 locations. The DVS operates a smaller number of full-service offices in larger cities.

Before you go, gather 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, bring a document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office, so bring any glasses or contacts you use while driving.

Renewal fees depend on how long your new license will be valid. A four-year renewal costs $48, an eight-year renewal costs $96, and a REAL ID-compliant license (which you'll need for domestic air travel after May 2025) costs $48 for four years or $96 for eight years. Payment is cash, check, or card—methods vary by location, so call ahead if you have a preference.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew in person at a Deputy Registrar office or DVS office; there are over 100 Deputy Registrar locations across Minnesota.
  • Bring your current license, proof of residence from the last three months, and your Social Security number to any renewal appointment.
  • You will take a vision test at the office, so wear your glasses or contacts if you use them while driving.
  • Renewal costs $48 for a four-year license or $96 for an eight-year license; REAL ID licenses cost the same but are required for domestic air travel.
  • If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

How to find your nearest renewal location

The Minnesota Secretary of State website has a searchable map of all Deputy Registrar and DVS offices. Go to mn.gov/sos, navigate to the Driver and Vehicle Services section, and use the office locator tool. You can search by city, county, or ZIP code. Each listing shows the office address, phone number, and hours of operation.

Deputy Registrar offices often have shorter wait times than DVS offices, especially in smaller towns. However, not all Deputy Registrars offer every service—some handle renewals but not replacements or REAL ID upgrades. The office locator will tell you what each location offers. If you call ahead, staff can tell you how busy they are and whether you should expect a wait.

What happens during your renewal visit

When you arrive, you'll check in and wait for your turn. A staff member will review your documents, confirm your information, and ask you to take a vision test using a machine in the office. The test checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test.

After the vision test, you'll sit for a new photo. Wear something you're comfortable with—the same rules explore as for your original license photo. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or anything that obscures your face, and the background must be plain. Once the photo is taken, you'll sign your new license digitally or on paper, depending on the office setup.

The staff member will tell you when your new license will arrive. Standard processing takes 5 to 10 business days. You can drive on your old license until the new one arrives. If you need your license sooner—for example, if yours is expiring in a few days—ask about expedited processing, which costs extra and takes 1 to 3 business days.

REAL ID compliance and what it means for you

A REAL ID is a driver's license that meets federal security standards. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or a passport to board a domestic flight in the United States. A REAL ID license looks like a regular Minnesota license but has a small gold star in the upper right corner.

When you renew, you can choose a standard license or a REAL ID license. Both cost the same. To get a REAL ID, you must provide proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), proof of residence, and proof of your legal name and date of birth (your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers). If you already have a REAL ID, your new license will automatically be REAL ID-compliant when you renew.

If you do not plan to fly domestically, a standard license is sufficient. However, getting a REAL ID during renewal is straightforward since you are already at the office with your documents, so many people choose to do it then rather than come back later.

Renewing by mail or online

Minnesota does not offer online renewal or mail-in renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at a Deputy Registrar or DVS office. This is because the state requires a new photo and a vision test, both of which must happen face-to-face.

However, if you are unable to visit an office in person due to a disability or medical condition, you can contact your local DVS office to ask about accommodations. Some offices can arrange for a staff member to visit you at home or at a medical facility. Call the office ahead of time to discuss your situation and see what options are available.

What to do if your license is expired or expiring soon

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it at a Deputy Registrar or DVS office using the same process. There is no penalty for renewing an expired license, and you can drive on an expired license to the office to renew it. However, once your license expires, you cannot legally drive for any other purpose.

If your license is expiring within 30 days, renew as soon as possible. Wait times can be longer during peak seasons (late spring and summer), so plan ahead. If you know your renewal date, mark it on your calendar a few months in advance so you have time to find an office and schedule a visit if needed.

If you need to drive before your new license arrives and your old one has expired, you can ask for a temporary paper license at the renewal office. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

No. Minnesota will not renew your license if you have unpaid traffic violations, child support arrears, or certain other court-ordered debts. The office will tell you what you owe and how to pay it. Once you pay, you can renew when ready. If you are unsure whether you have outstanding fines, call the DVS or your local court before you go to the office.

What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot find it?

Bring a different document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return. If you are renewing for a REAL ID, you will need one of these documents anyway. If you do not have any document with your number, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you renew your license.

Do I need an appointment to renew, or can I just walk in?

Most Deputy Registrar and DVS offices accept walk-ins, but some locations in busy areas now require appointments. Check the office locator on mn.gov/sos to see whether your location takes appointments or walk-ins. If appointments are required, you can book one online or by phone through the same website.

How long is my new license valid?

You choose when you renew: either four years or eight years. An eight-year license costs twice as much but lasts longer, so you will not have to renew again for eight years. Most people choose based on their budget and how often they want to update their photo.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

Tell the staff member at the office, and they will update your address during renewal. You do not need to bring anything extra—just your proof of residence showing your new address. Your new license will have the updated address printed on it.