Where to Get Your Replacement License

You can get a replacement driver's license through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division. You have two main routes: visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person, or use the online replacement service if you meet certain conditions.

The online option is faster if available to you. You can order a replacement through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website without visiting an office. This works if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have not changed your name, and your current address on file is correct. The replacement arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

If you cannot use the online service, you must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office. Minnesota has offices in most counties. You can find the nearest one and check current hours on the Department of Public Safety website. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.

Key Takeaways

  • The online replacement service takes 7 to 10 business days and costs $16.50 if your address and name have not changed and your license is not suspended.
  • In-person replacement at a Driver and Vehicle Services office takes about 30 minutes and produces a temporary license you can use when ready while your permanent card is mailed.
  • You need a valid form of identification and proof of your current address to replace your license in person.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to local police and bring the report number when you visit an office, though it is not required.

What You Need to Bring for In-Person Replacement

Bring one form of valid identification. This can be your passport, military ID, tribal ID, or another government-issued ID. If your license was lost or stolen, a police report number helps but is not required.

You also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. A government check or tax return also counts. The name on the address document must match the name on your ID.

If you have changed your name since your license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot change your name through the online replacement service, so you must visit an office.

The In-Person Process and Timeline

When you arrive at a Driver and Vehicle Services office, check in at the counter and tell staff you need a replacement. They will verify your identity and address, take a new photo if required, and process your request. The entire visit usually takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use to drive when ready. Your permanent plastic card is mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for 60 days, which gives you time to receive the permanent card.

The cost for an in-person replacement is $16.50. Payment is accepted by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most offices, though a few locations may have different payment methods. Ask when you arrive.

Using the Online Replacement Service

To order online, go to the Minnesota Secretary of State's website and select the option to order a replacement license. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You will also create or log into your online account.

The system will confirm your current address and name on file. If either has changed, you cannot complete the order online and must visit an office instead. If everything matches, you pay $16.50 by credit or debit card and submit your order.

Your replacement license is mailed to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait. If you need the card faster, some offices offer expedited mail service for an additional fee, though this is not available through the online system.

What to Do If Your License Was Lost or Stolen

Reporting a lost or stolen license to local police is not required to get a replacement, but it is a good idea if you are concerned about identity theft. If you report it, keep the police report number. Some people bring it when they visit an office, though staff do not ask for it.

Whether you report it or not, the replacement process is the same. You order online or visit an office with your ID and proof of address. Your old license number is deactivated when your replacement is issued, so the lost card cannot be used.

If you are worried about fraud, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This is separate from the license replacement and is handled directly with the credit bureaus, not through the Department of Public Safety.

Replacing an Expired or Suspended License

If your license is expired, you can order a replacement online or visit an office. The process is the same as for a lost or damaged card. You will receive a new license with a new expiration date based on your age and license class.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot order a replacement online. You must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person. Staff will explain the reason for the suspension and what you need to do to restore your driving privileges. This might include paying fines, completing a course, or waiting out a suspension period. Until your suspension is lifted, a replacement license will not be issued.

If you are unsure whether your license is suspended, you can check the status on the Department of Public Safety website before you visit an office. This saves a wasted trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my temporary paper license to drive out of state?

Yes. Your temporary license is valid for driving throughout the United States while you wait for your permanent card. It is not valid for air travel or as a form of ID at banks or government offices, but it works for driving.

What if I move before my replacement license arrives?

Contact a Driver and Vehicle Services office or update your address online through your account before the card is mailed. If the card arrives at your old address, you can pick it up there or request it be reissued to your new address. You may be charged a small fee for the reissue.

How much does a replacement license cost?

The standard cost is $16.50 whether you order online or visit an office in person. Some offices offer expedited mail delivery for an additional fee if you need the card faster than the standard 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need an appointment to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office?

No, walk-ins are accepted at all offices. However, scheduling an appointment online can reduce your wait time, especially during busy hours. You can schedule up to 30 days in advance through the Department of Public Safety website.

What if my name or address on file is wrong?

If your address is wrong, you must visit an office in person with proof of your current address. If your name is wrong, you also need a certified copy of the document showing the legal name change. You cannot fix either through the online replacement service.