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. To get your first license or renew an expired one, you'll need to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person—you cannot complete this entirely by mail or online, though some steps can be done ahead of time.
Before you go, gather these documents: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consular report of birth), proof of Minnesota residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months), and your Social Security number. If you're renewing and your name has changed since your last license, bring a document showing the legal change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. You do not need a medical exam or doctor's letter unless you have a condition that might affect your ability to drive safely—in that case, the examiner will tell you what documentation they need.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota requires you to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person with proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number.
- A standard driver's license is valid for eight years; you can renew by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, but first-time applicants must appear in person.
- The written test covers Minnesota traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can study using the official Minnesota Driver's Manual available free online.
- Road tests are required for first-time applicants and anyone whose license has been suspended or revoked, but not for standard renewals.
- Minnesota offers REAL ID-compliant licenses, which are required for federal air travel and entry to military bases starting May 2025.
The written test and what it covers
If you're getting your first license or your license has been expired for more than one year, you must pass a written knowledge test. The test has 40 questions covering Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass.
The official Minnesota Driver's Manual is free and available on the Department of Public Safety website. It contains all the information tested on the exam. Many people study it for a few days before their appointment and do well; there is no time limit on how long you can study before taking the test.
If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no penalty for retaking it, and you do not lose any fees you've already paid.
The road test: when you need it and what happens
A road test is required if you are getting your first driver's license, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if you are upgrading to a different class of license (for example, from a regular license to one that allows you to drive a motorcycle or commercial vehicle). If you are straightforward renewing a valid license, you do not need a road test.
The road test lasts about 20 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, turning, backing up, parking, and stopping. They will also check that you can use your mirrors, signal properly, and follow traffic laws. The test happens on regular roads in the area around the Driver and Vehicle Services office, not on a closed course.
If you fail the road test, you can schedule another one. There is a fee each time you take it. Most people pass on their second or third attempt if they practice beforehand with someone who holds a valid license.
License types and what each one allows
Minnesota issues several types of driver's licenses depending on what you will be driving. A Class D license is the standard license for driving a passenger car, pickup truck, or van. A Class A license is for driving a semi-truck or tractor-trailer and requires additional testing and a medical certificate. A Class B license is for driving a single large vehicle like a school bus or dump truck.
You can also add endorsements to your license, which allow you to drive specific types of vehicles. A motorcycle endorsement (M) lets you ride a motorcycle. A hazmat endorsement (H) allows you to transport hazardous materials and requires a background check. Most people hold a Class D license with no endorsements.
When you renew your license, you keep the same class and endorsements unless you request a change. If you want to add an endorsement, you will need to pass an additional written test and, in some cases, a road test.
Renewal by mail, online, or in person
If your Minnesota driver's license is still valid and you have not had any suspensions or revocations, you may be able to renew without visiting an office. The Department of Public Safety sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires. The notice will tell you whether you can renew by mail or online.
Online renewal is available through the Department of Public Safety website if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions. You will need to log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days.
Mail renewal works the same way: you fill out the form that came with your notice, include payment, and mail it back. This takes longer—typically 2 to 3 weeks—so do not wait until your license is about to expire.
If you cannot renew by mail or online, or if you prefer to do it in person, you can visit any Driver and Vehicle Services office. Bring the same documents you would need for a new license.
REAL ID compliance and what it means for you
Minnesota offers REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, which meet federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license or passport will be required to board a domestic airplane or enter a federal building or military base. A standard Minnesota driver's license that is not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted for these purposes.
Getting a REAL ID license requires the same documents as a regular license, plus one additional document proving your Social Security number (your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form). You do not pay extra for a REAL ID license—the cost is the same as a standard license. The license itself will have a gold star in the upper right corner so you can tell it is REAL ID-compliant.
If you already have a valid Minnesota driver's license, you do not need to rush to get a REAL ID version right now. You can continue using your current license for driving. You only need the REAL ID version if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 2025.
Fees and how long it takes
A new Minnesota driver's license costs $24.50 and is valid for eight years. A renewal costs $24.50 as well. If you are upgrading your license class or adding an endorsement, there may be additional fees—the office will tell you the exact amount when you explore.
If you get your license in person at an office, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days while your plastic card is being printed. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. If you renew by mail or online, the timeline is longer—typically 2 to 3 weeks for mail and 5 to 10 days for online.
Driver and Vehicle Services offices are open Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Some offices have extended hours on certain days. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Department of Public Safety website. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer during busy times. You can also schedule an appointment online to reduce your wait time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Minnesota license if it expired more than a year ago?
No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than one year. You must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person and take the written test again. Bring all the documents you would need for a new license.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment at no extra cost. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass after studying the Minnesota Driver's Manual for a few days.
Do I need a road test to renew my license?
No, if you are renewing a valid license, you do not need a road test. Road tests are only required for first-time applicants, people upgrading to a different license class, and people whose licenses have been suspended or revoked.
What is the difference between a standard Minnesota license and a REAL ID license?
Both cost the same and are valid for eight years. A REAL ID license has a gold star and meets federal security standards required for domestic air travel and federal building entry after May 2025. A standard license does not have the star and will not be accepted for those purposes.
How long does it take to get my license after I explore?
If you explore in person, you get a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 30 days, and your plastic card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. If you renew by mail, it takes 2 to 3 weeks. Online renewal takes 5 to 10 days.