Minnesota issues your first driver's license through the Department of Public Safety, and the process takes about two weeks from the time you pass your tests

To get your first Minnesota driver's license, you will need to pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a driving test with an examiner. You must be at least 16 years old. The Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division handles all licensing. You can take your written test at any Driver Exam Station across the state, and the driving test must be scheduled separately at one of those same stations.

The entire process—from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail—typically takes two to three weeks. Your actual license arrives by mail after you pass both tests. Until it arrives, you receive a temporary paper permit that is valid for driving.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test at a Minnesota Driver Exam Station before you receive a license.
  • You need to bring specific documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Minnesota residency such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the Minnesota Driver's Manual available free on the Department of Public Safety website.
  • Your temporary permit is valid for driving when ready after you pass your tests, but your official license arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
  • You must schedule your driving test in advance; same-day testing is not available at most stations.

Documents you need to bring to the exam station

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued document that proves your identity and date of birth. You also need proof of your Social Security number—either your Social Security card itself or a document issued by a government agency that shows your number, such as a tax return or W-2.

For proof of Minnesota residency, bring a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and a Minnesota address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency in Minnesota.

If you are under 18, you may also need to bring a parent or guardian. Minnesota law requires anyone under 18 to have a parent or legal guardian sign the process in person at the exam station.

How the written knowledge test works

The written test has 40 multiple-choice questions covering Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; you can request a language other than English when you schedule your appointment.

You can study using the Minnesota Driver's Manual, which is free and available as a PDF on the Department of Public Safety website. The manual covers everything on the test. Many people also use practice tests available online through the state website, which show you the same types of questions you will see on test day.

You have up to three attempts to pass the written test. If you do not pass on your first try, you can schedule another test appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may need to wait for the next available appointment slot at your local exam station.

Scheduling and taking your driving test

After you pass your written test, you schedule your driving test separately. You cannot take both tests on the same day. The driving test must be scheduled at least one business day in advance; you can book it online through the Department of Public Safety website or by calling your local exam station.

During the driving test, an examiner rides with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you arrange) and watches you perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. You must pass a vision screening before the driving test begins.

You have three attempts to pass the driving test. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test. There is no mandatory waiting period between attempts, but appointment availability varies by location and season.

What happens after you pass both tests

Once you pass your driving test, you receive a temporary paper permit on the spot. This permit is valid for driving in Minnesota and is recognized by law enforcement. You can drive when ready while you wait for your official license to arrive.

Your official Minnesota driver's license is mailed to the address you provided at the exam station. It typically arrives within two to three weeks. The license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. You do not need to do anything else—the state processes and mails it automatically.

If your license does not arrive within four weeks, contact the Driver and Vehicle Services office. You can call or visit their website to report the delay and request a replacement.

Costs and fees

The written test costs $10. The driving test costs $10. Your first driver's license costs $25. These fees are paid at the exam station when you take each test or receive your license. Fees are subject to change; check the Department of Public Safety website for current amounts.

If you need to retake either test, you pay the test fee again. If your license is lost or damaged and you need a replacement before it expires, there is an additional replacement fee.

If you already have a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Minnesota, you can exchange it for a Minnesota license without retaking the written and driving tests. You will need to visit a Driver Exam Station with your out-of-state license, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exchange process is faster than getting your first license and costs less.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to retake both the written and driving tests to get a Minnesota license. The same documents and fees explore as for a first-time license holder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my driving test in a vehicle that is not registered to me?

Yes. The vehicle must be insured, have valid registration, and be in safe working condition. It does not have to be registered in your name. Many people use a parent's or friend's vehicle for the test. The vehicle must have working brakes, steering, lights, and wipers.

What if I fail my driving test—how long do I have to wait to retake it?

There is no mandatory waiting period. You can schedule your next driving test as soon as an appointment slot is available at your local exam station. Availability varies by location and time of year, so you may have to wait days or weeks depending on how busy the station is.

Do I need to take a driver education course before I can get my license?

No. A formal driver education course is not required by Minnesota law to get your first license. However, if you are under 18, completing an approved driver education course may lower your car insurance rates. Check with your insurance company about discounts.

What if I move to a different state after I get my Minnesota license?

Your Minnesota license remains valid until it expires. Most states recognize out-of-state licenses. When you move, you will eventually need to exchange your Minnesota license for one from your new state, but you can usually do this without retaking tests if your Minnesota license is still valid.

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

Your first license cannot be renewed online or by mail—you must visit an exam station in person. Future renewals may be available online or by mail depending on your age and license type at the time of renewal. Check the Department of Public Safety website for renewal options when your license is close to expiring.