You cannot get a driver license at Mall of America

Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota does not have a driver license office. The mall is a shopping center, not a government facility. To get a Minnesota driver license, you need to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office, which is run by the state and located separately from retail spaces.

The closest DVS office to Mall of America is in Bloomington itself, about 2 miles away. Minnesota has DVS locations in most cities and towns. You can find the address and hours of your nearest office on the Minnesota Secretary of State website, or call 651-296-6911 to confirm locations and current wait times.

Key Takeaways

  • Driver licenses are issued only at state Driver and Vehicle Services offices, not at shopping malls or retail locations.
  • Minnesota's DVS office nearest to Mall of America is in Bloomington, a short drive away.
  • You can find your local DVS office address and hours on the Minnesota Secretary of State website or by calling 651-296-6911.
  • Bring a valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number when you visit any DVS office.
  • Some DVS offices take walk-ins, but many now require you to book an appointment online or by phone first.

What documents you need to bring

When you go to a DVS office to get a driver license, bring a valid form of identification — a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card all work. You also need proof of residency, which can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Minnesota address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your Social Security number or Social Security card. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration saying so. You will also need to bring any documents related to a legal name change if your current name differs from your birth certificate — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Bring your current driver license if you have one and are renewing. If you are getting your first license or replacing a lost one, bring nothing else — the DVS office will take your photo and signature there.

How to find your nearest DVS office

The Minnesota Secretary of State website has a searchable map of all DVS locations. Go to mn.gov/sos and look for the "Driver and Vehicle Services" section. You can search by city or ZIP code to find offices near you, along with their hours and phone numbers.

If you are near Mall of America and do not want to search online, call 651-296-6911 and tell the person which city you are in. They can tell you the nearest office, whether it is currently open, and how long the wait typically is. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead can save you a trip.

Whether you need an appointment

Minnesota DVS offices have different policies. Some take walk-ins during certain hours, while others require an appointment for all services. The easiest way to know is to call the specific office you plan to visit, or check the office details on the Secretary of State website — it will say whether appointments are required.

If appointments are required, you can usually book one online through the Secretary of State website or by calling the office directly. Booking ahead means you will not wait in line, and the office will know you are coming.

What a driver license costs in Minnesota

A Minnesota driver license costs money, and the price depends on how long you want it to be valid. A license valid for 4 years costs less than one valid for 8 years. Renewal costs less than a first-time license. The exact fee changes, so ask the DVS office when you call or check the Secretary of State website for current prices.

You will pay by card or cash at the office. Some offices may have restrictions on payment methods, so ask when you call ahead.

If you need a Real ID compliant license

A Real ID is a driver license that meets federal security standards. You need one to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. A Real ID license looks like a regular Minnesota driver license but has a gold star in the upper right corner.

Getting a Real ID requires the same documents as a regular license, plus one extra form of identification. The DVS office can tell you which documents count. Real ID licenses cost the same as regular licenses and are issued at the same offices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my driver license online instead of going to an office?

Minnesota allows online renewal for some people — usually those renewing a license that is not yet expired and who have not had violations or address changes. Check the Secretary of State website to see if you are may be able to access. If you are, you can renew online without visiting an office.

What if I lost my driver license and need a replacement?

Go to a DVS office with your ID and proof of residency, the same as for a first-time license. Tell the staff you need a replacement. They will issue a new license with the same number. Bring your Social Security number or card.

How long does it take to get a driver license at the office?

If you have an appointment, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Walk-ins may wait longer, depending on how busy the office is. Call ahead to ask about typical wait times at your specific location.

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you do not have a number, along with your other required documents. The DVS office will process your license without a Social Security number.