What you need to get a Minnesota driver's license

Minnesota issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division. You will need to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person — you cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. The office will require proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, proof of your Social Security number, and a completed process form (Form DL-44).

Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days and showing your current address. Your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return can serve as proof of your Social Security number.

You will also take a written knowledge test, an eye exam, and a driving skills test (unless you are renewing). The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices specific to Minnesota. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one, as it may reduce the number of tests required.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota requires you to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written knowledge test, eye exam, and driving skills test; renewal applicants may skip some tests.
  • A Minnesota driver's license costs $25 for an eight-year license or $20 for a four-year license, depending on your age and choice.
  • You can find your nearest office and check wait times on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website before you go.
  • If you are under 18, you must follow graduated driver's license rules, which restrict night driving and passenger limits for the first year.

Step-by-step process for a new Minnesota driver's license

Start by locating your nearest Driver and Vehicle Services office using the office locator on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. Many offices allow you to check current wait times online. Gather all required documents before you arrive — missing even one will require you to return on another day.

At the office, you will complete Form DL-44 (process for Minnesota Driver's License). You will then take the written knowledge test on a computer. The test has 40 questions; you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no additional cost, though you may wait several hours.

After passing the written test, you will have your eyes checked by office staff using a vision screening machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. You will then schedule a driving skills test, which is typically conducted within one to four weeks depending on office volume. The driving test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, and following traffic laws.

Costs and how long it takes

A Minnesota driver's license costs $25 for an eight-year license (standard for most adults) or $20 for a four-year license. If you are 65 or older, an eight-year license costs $20. Payments are accepted in cash, check, or card at the office.

The written test and eye exam happen on your first visit, usually the same day. The driving skills test is scheduled separately and typically occurs within two to four weeks. Once you pass the driving test, your license is issued when ready or mailed to you within five to seven business days, depending on the office.

If you are renewing an existing Minnesota license, the process is faster. You can renew online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website if your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes. Online renewal costs $25 for an eight-year license and takes about two weeks for delivery. In-person renewal at a Driver and Vehicle Services office takes one day and skips the written and driving tests.

Graduated driver's license rules for drivers under 18

Minnesota's graduated driver's license (GDL) system has three levels: instruction permit, provisional license, and full license. You must hold each level for a minimum time before advancing.

An instruction permit allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat. You must hold it for at least six months and be at least 15 years old. A provisional license allows you to drive unsupervised during daylight hours (5 a.m. to 9 p.m.) but restricts night driving and limits passengers to when ready family members. You must hold the provisional license for at least one year and be at least 16 years old. A full license removes all restrictions and is available at 17 years old or after holding the provisional license for one year, whichever comes later.

Renewing your Minnesota driver's license

Minnesota driver's licenses expire on your birthday eight years after issue (or four years if you chose the shorter term). You can renew starting 90 days before your birthday. The easiest method is online renewal through the Minnesota Secretary of State website, which costs $25 and takes about two weeks for delivery. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired, you have not changed your address, and you have no medical or legal holds on your record.

If you cannot renew online, visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person. In-person renewal takes one day and costs the same $25 fee. You will not need to retake the written or driving tests unless your license has been expired for more than one year or you have had a suspension or revocation.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must explore for a new license and retake all tests. If you have moved to a new address, you must update it in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office; online renewal will not process if your address has changed.

What to do if you lose or damage your license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any Driver and Vehicle Services office or online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website. An in-person replacement takes one day and costs $20. An online replacement takes about two weeks for delivery and also costs $20.

When you report a lost or stolen license, the old license is when ready deactivated in the system. You do not need a police report unless you suspect fraud. If your replacement arrives and you later find your original license, destroy it or return it to a Driver and Vehicle Services office.

Changing your name or address on your Minnesota license

To change your name on your license, visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office with proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Bring your current license and proof of identity. The office will issue a new license with your updated name; this takes one day and costs $20.

To change your address, you can update it online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website at no cost if your license is not expired. The change takes effect when ready for online updates. If you prefer to change your address in person, visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office with proof of your new address. In-person address changes are free and take one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. Minnesota offers the written knowledge test in multiple languages including Spanish, Somali, Hmong, and Vietnamese. When you arrive at the office, tell staff which language you need. Some offices may require advance notice for less common languages.

What happens if I fail the driving skills test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as needed. Each retake costs $20 and must be scheduled separately. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. There is no limit on how many times you can test.

Do I need to take a new photo every time I renew?

No. If you renew online, your existing photo is used. If you renew in person, a new photo is taken unless your license is less than four years old and you choose to keep the old photo. You can always request a new photo at any renewal.

Can I get a Real ID-compliant license in Minnesota?

Yes. Minnesota issues Real ID-compliant licenses that meet federal standards for air travel and federal building access. When you explore or renew, you will receive a Real ID license by default if you provide the required documents. The cost is the same as a standard license.

What if I move out of Minnesota after getting my license?

Your Minnesota license remains valid until it expires. You are not required to exchange it for a license in your new state when ready, though most states require you to obtain a local license within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency. Check your new state's requirements.