What you need to know about Minnesota driver's licenses
A Minnesota driver's license is issued by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division. You need one to drive legally in Minnesota, and it also serves as a state ID for age verification and other purposes. The license is valid for up to eight years, depending on your age and whether you renew in person or by mail.
Minnesota offers several types of licenses: a standard driver's license for regular driving, an enhanced driver's license (EDL) that works for travel to Canada and Mexico by land or sea, and a REAL ID-compliant license that meets federal standards for air travel and federal building access. You choose which type when you first get your license or renew it.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person for your first license, but renewals can be done by mail or online if you meet certain conditions.
- A standard Minnesota driver's license costs $25 for an eight-year license, while an enhanced license costs $30 and a REAL ID license costs $30.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of your Social Security number before you go to the office.
- If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted by the court or the Driver and Vehicle Services office.
Getting your first Minnesota driver's license
To get your first Minnesota driver's license, you must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person. You cannot get your first license by mail or online. You will need to bring specific documents, pass a written test about traffic laws, pass a vision test, and have your photo taken. The office will also take your fingerprints for the background check.
Before you go, gather your documents. You need one form of government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or tribal ID), one proof of Minnesota residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last three months), and proof of your Social Security number (such as your Social Security card or a tax return). If you do not have these documents, the office staff can tell you what alternatives they accept.
The written test covers Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Minnesota Driver's Manual, which is free on the Driver and Vehicle Services website. The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
Renewing your Minnesota driver's license by mail or online
If your license is not suspended or revoked, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting an office. You can renew online if your license is not expired by more than one year, you have not changed your name, you do not need to update your photo, and you do not want to change your license type. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $25 for a standard license.
To renew by mail, send your current license, a completed renewal form (available on the Driver and Vehicle Services website), and a check or money order to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks. You cannot renew by mail if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you have changed your name, or if you need a new photo.
If you do not meet the conditions for mail or online renewal, you must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person. This is required if your license has been expired for more than a year, if you want to change your license type, or if you need a new photo.
What documents to bring to the office
Bring your current driver's license or ID card. If you do not have one, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a passport. You also need proof of your Minnesota address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months. A bank statement or insurance document also works if it shows your current address.
Bring proof of your Social Security number. Your Social Security card is the easiest option, but you can also bring a tax return, W-2 form, or 1099 form that shows your full Social Security number. If you are renewing and your name has not changed, you may not need to bring this again.
If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you, and they will need to bring their ID.
Costs and how long it takes
A standard Minnesota driver's license costs $25 for an eight-year license. An enhanced driver's license costs $30 and allows you to travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea without a passport. A REAL ID-compliant license costs $30 and meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings.
If you get your first license in person at an office, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your plastic card arrives in the mail within one to two weeks. If you renew online, your new license arrives in the mail within one to two weeks. If you renew by mail, allow two to three weeks for processing plus mail time.
You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the office. Online renewals accept debit and credit cards only. Mail renewals require a check or money order.
If your license is suspended or revoked
A Minnesota driver's license can be suspended or revoked for several reasons: unpaid traffic fines, driving under the influence, reckless driving, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, or failure to pay child support. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted.
To learn about your license is suspended or revoked, check the Driver and Vehicle Services website or call their office. If it is suspended, you can often lift the suspension by paying outstanding fines or child support, or by completing a required course. If it is revoked, you may need to wait a certain period before you can reapply for a license, and you may need to pass the written and vision tests again.
Finding a Driver and Vehicle Services office near you
Minnesota has Driver and Vehicle Services offices in most cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Driver and Vehicle Services website by entering your city or zip code. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment. During busy times, wait times can be long, so calling ahead or scheduling online can save you time.
Some offices have limited hours or are closed on certain days. Check the website or call before you go to confirm the hours and whether you need an appointment. If you cannot reach an office near you, you can visit any Driver and Vehicle Services office in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my 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. You will need to bring all the same documents as someone getting a first license, and you may need to retake the written and vision tests.
What if I lost my license or it was stolen?
Go to a Driver and Vehicle Services office and request a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency. The replacement costs $25 and you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your new plastic card arrives in the mail within one to two weeks.
Do I need a REAL ID license to fly on an airplane?
Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable ID (such as a passport) is required for domestic air travel. A standard Minnesota driver's license does not meet this requirement. You can upgrade to a REAL ID license at any time by visiting an office or renewing online if you meet the conditions.
Can I change my address without renewing my license?
Yes, you can update your address online through the Driver and Vehicle Services website without renewing your license. You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The address change takes effect when ready online and your new license card will reflect the change when you renew.
What if I want to change my name on my license?
You must visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person and bring a document that proves your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You can change your name when you renew or at any time by visiting an office. The cost is the same as a renewal.