How to Renew Your Minnesota Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Minnesota driver's license in person at any Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office, by mail, or online through the state's website — but not all methods work for every situation. The fastest route depends on whether your license is still valid, how soon you need it, and whether you've had a name change or address update since your last renewal.

If you renew online or by mail, you'll need your current license number, a valid email address, and a payment method. If you're renewing in person, bring your current license, proof of Minnesota residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last three months), and your Social Security number. You do not need to retake the written test or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than one year, or unless the state requires it based on your age.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $24.50 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license, but you can only use it if your current license is valid and you haven't changed your name or address.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and uses the same fee structure as online, but requires you to mail in your current license and wait for the new one to arrive.
In-person renewal at a DVS office takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on wait times, costs the same as online, and is required if your license is expired, you've changed your name, or you need to update your address.
Minnesota licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before expiration without losing time on your new license's validity period.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and will need to pass a vision test and written knowledge test.

Online renewal: fastest if your information hasn't changed

Online renewal through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website is the quickest option if your current license is still valid and your name and address match what's on file. You'll enter your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm your information, show you the new license photo (which uses your current photo on file), and let you pay by debit card or credit card.

Your new license will arrive by mail in seven to ten business days. You can continue using your current license until the new one arrives. The cost is $24.50 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license. You cannot renew online if your license is expired, if you need to change your name or address, or if you're under 21 (minors must renew in person).

Mail renewal: no trip to an office, but slower delivery

Mail renewal works the same way as online renewal in terms of may be able to access — your license must be valid, your information must be current, and you must be 21 or older. You'll request a renewal form from the Secretary of State's website or call the DVS customer service line at 651-296-6911 to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail everything back along with your current license.

Processing takes two to three weeks after the office receives your envelope, plus mail time in both directions. Your new license will arrive by mail. This method works well if you're not in a hurry and prefer not to visit an office, but it ties up your current license during the mail process — you won't have a valid license to carry until the new one arrives.

In-person renewal at a DVS office: required for expired licenses and name changes

You must renew in person if your license is expired, if you've changed your name since your last renewal, if you need to update your address, or if you're under 21. Bring your current license (or expired license if it's been less than one year), proof of Minnesota residency, and your Social Security number. You'll also need to pass a vision test, and if your license has been expired for more than one year, you'll take the written knowledge test as well.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Busier offices in the Twin Cities area may have 30 to 45 minute waits during lunch hours and late afternoon, while smaller regional offices often move faster. You can check current wait times on the Secretary of State's website before you go. The renewal takes about 15 minutes once you're called, and you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you.

Fees and how long your new license lasts

Minnesota driver's licenses cost $24.50 for a four-year renewal or $48 for an eight-year renewal. The choice is yours — there's no requirement to pick one over the other. Your new license will expire on your birthday four or eight years from the date you renew, depending on which term you choose. If you renew before your current license expires, the new expiration date is calculated from your current expiration date, not from the renewal date, so you don't lose any time.

If you're renewing in person and need a replacement photo because you look significantly different from your current license photo, you can request a new photo for an additional $5 fee. This is optional — the standard renewal uses your existing photo on file.

What happens if your license is expired

If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can renew in person without retaking the written test, though you will take a vision test. If it's been expired for more than one year, you must pass both the vision test and the written knowledge test, the same as if you were getting your first license. You cannot drive legally with an expired license, so renew as soon as possible if you're past your expiration date.

If your license expired while you were out of state or out of the country, bring documentation of where you were during that time. The DVS may waive the knowledge test requirement in some cases, but you'll still need to pass the vision test and renew in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I've moved to a different address?

No, you cannot use online or mail renewal if you've changed your address. You must renew in person at a DVS office and bring proof of your new Minnesota residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last three months. The office will update your address during the renewal process.

What if I've changed my name since my last renewal?

You must renew in person and bring legal documentation of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DVS will verify the document and update your license. You cannot renew online or by mail with a name change.

How long can I drive on my temporary paper license?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent card is mailed separately and usually arrives within two weeks. If it doesn't arrive within 30 days, contact the DVS customer service line at 651-296-6911 to check the status.

Do I need to take the vision test if I'm renewing online?

No. Online renewal does not include a vision test. If you renew online and your vision has changed significantly, you can request a new photo and vision test during your next in-person transaction, but it's not required for online renewal.

What if I lost my current license?

If your license is lost or stolen, you need a replacement, not a renewal. Contact your local DVS office or call 651-296-6911 for information about replacement procedures and fees, which differ from renewal fees.

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.