Minnesota driver's license renewal basics

Minnesota allows you to renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. Which method you use depends on your age, how long your license has been expired, and whether you need a new photo. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

Your current license must not be expired by more than five years for you to renew by mail or online. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. If you are under 21, you cannot renew online — you must go to a DVS office or renew by mail.

The renewal process takes about two weeks by mail and one to two weeks online, depending on whether the state needs to verify information with other agencies. In-person renewal is usually completed the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota residents aged 21 and older with a license expired five years or less can renew online at state.mn.us or by mail without visiting an office.
  • Renewal by mail costs $24.50 and takes about two weeks; online renewal costs $24.50 and is processed within one to two weeks.
  • In-person renewal at a DVS office requires an appointment booked through the online system and costs $24.50, but you receive your license the same day.
  • You will need your current license, a Social Security number, and proof of Minnesota residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • If your license has been expired more than five years or you are under 21, you must renew in person at a DVS office.

Online renewal through the Minnesota state website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are 21 or older and your license expired within the last five years. Go to state.mn.us and select the Driver License Renewal option. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in.

The system will ask whether you want to keep your current photo or upload a new one. If you keep your photo, the process takes about five minutes. If you upload a new photo, the state reviews it to make sure it meets their standards — this can add a few days to processing time. You pay $24.50 by debit or credit card at the end.

After you submit, the state sends a confirmation email. Your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. You can use your current license until the new one arrives.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works the same way as online renewal in terms of who can use it — you must be 21 or older and your license must have expired within five years. Request a renewal form by calling DVS at 651-297-2126 or visiting a DVS office. You can also read the form from state.mn.us.

Fill out the form completely, including your signature. Attach a copy of your current license (both sides) and proof of Minnesota residency such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Mail the packet to the address listed on the form along with a check or money order for $24.50.

Processing takes about two weeks from the date DVS receives your envelope. Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your license expires if you need it by a specific date. Your new license arrives by mail, and you can continue using your current license until it arrives.

In-person renewal at a DVS office

You must renew in person if you are under 21, your license expired more than five years ago, or you want a new photo and prefer not to upload one online. Book an appointment through the DVS website at state.mn.us — walk-ins are not accepted at most offices. Appointments typically open up two to three weeks in advance.

Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, tax return, or W-2), and proof of Minnesota residency dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement all work. You will have a new photo taken at the office unless you bring a recent passport-style photo that meets state standards.

The office will process your renewal on the same day and issue a temporary paper license you can use when ready. Your permanent license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. The fee is $24.50, paid by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

What documents you need for any renewal method

All renewal methods require the same basic documents. You need your current Minnesota driver's license and proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card works, but so does a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form with your full number visible.

You also need proof of Minnesota residency dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax statement. The document must show your name and current Minnesota address.

If you are renewing in person and want to use a photo other than the one on file, bring a recent passport-style photo that is 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face clearly visible.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Minnesota driver's license renewal costs $24.50 regardless of which method you choose. This fee covers an eight-year renewal for adults 21 and older. Drivers under 21 renew for four years at the same price.

Online renewal accepts debit and credit cards only. Mail renewal accepts checks or money orders made payable to the State of Minnesota. In-person renewal accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you pay by check or money order through the mail, allow extra time for processing.

What to do if your license is expired or expiring soon

If your license expires within the next 30 days, you can still renew by mail or online if you are 21 or older and your license has not been expired for more than five years. Start the process when ready — do not wait until the expiration date passes.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew by mail or online using the same methods, as long as it expired within the last five years. Your new license will be valid from the date you submit your renewal, not from your old expiration date. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Minnesota, so renew before you drive.

If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DVS office. You cannot drive legally until you have a valid license, so book an appointment as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Minnesota license if I moved out of state?

No. You must be a Minnesota resident to renew a Minnesota license. If you moved, you need to get a license from your new state. Contact your new state's driver licensing agency to learn about their requirements.

What happens if I renew online but the state needs more information?

DVS will send you an email or letter if they need additional documents or clarification. This usually happens if the state cannot verify your identity or residency through their records. Follow the instructions in the notice and respond within the timeframe given, or your renewal will be delayed.

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Yes, you can renew your license even if you have unpaid tickets or fines. However, Minnesota may suspend your license for unpaid traffic violations or child support. Check your status at state.mn.us before renewing to see if a suspension is in effect.

Do I need to take a new written test or eye exam to renew?

No written test is required for renewal. You do not need an eye exam either, unless you are renewing in person and the DVS officer determines your vision needs to be checked. This is rare and happens only if there is a concern about your ability to see while driving.

How long is my renewed license valid?

A renewed Minnesota driver's license is valid for eight years if you are 21 or older. If you are under 21, your renewed license is valid for four years. The expiration date is printed on your new license.