How to Renew Your Minnesota Driver's License

Where to renew and what you need to bring

You can renew your Minnesota driver's license at any Deputy Registrar office or at a Minnesota Secretary of State Driver and Vehicle Services office. Deputy Registrar locations are scattered throughout the state — usually in city halls, libraries, or standalone offices — and often have shorter wait times than state offices. You can find the nearest location and check current wait times on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of residence (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You do not need to bring your physical Social Security card.

If you are renewing by mail or online, the requirements are simpler, but not all renewal types may have access to for those routes — see the sections below for which path applies to you.

Key Takeaways

Standard renewals can happen in person at a Deputy Registrar office, by mail, or online depending on your license type and when it expires.
In-person renewal takes about 15 to 30 minutes at most locations and you receive your new license the same day.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and costs the same as in-person renewal.
Online renewal is the fastest option if your license qualifies, but only certain license types and ages are may be able to access.
You must renew in person if your license is expired by more than five years, if you need a REAL ID, or if you have certain medical conditions.

Renewing in person at a Deputy Registrar or state office

Walk in with your current license and proof of residence, and you will walk out with a new one. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You pay the renewal fee at the counter — the cost depends on how long your new license is valid for. A standard four-year renewal costs less than an eight-year renewal.

If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 7, 2025), you must renew in person. Bring your current license, proof of residence, proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of citizenship or legal residency (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers). REAL ID renewal costs more than a standard renewal.

Arrive early in the day or on a weekday if you can — mornings and mid-week tend to move faster. Some offices accept online reservations through the Secretary of State website, which can save you time.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available if your current license is not expired and you are renewing a standard (non-REAL ID) license. Send your current license, a completed Form DL-44 (available on the Secretary of State website), proof of residence, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes two to three weeks. Your new license will arrive by mail. You cannot drive legally once your current license expires, so mail renewal only works if you send it in before your expiration date. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person.

Keep a copy of the form and proof of mailing in case questions arise. The Secretary of State website lists the exact mailing address and current processing times.

Renewing online

Online renewal is the fastest option, but only certain drivers may have access to. You can renew online if you hold a standard (non-REAL ID) Minnesota driver's license, you are between 18 and 64 years old, your license is not expired, and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal.

Go to the Minnesota Secretary of State website, select the online renewal option, and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Payment is by credit or debit card. Your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

If you do not meet these requirements — for example, if you are 65 or older, if your license is expired, or if you need a REAL ID — you must renew in person or by mail.

What to do if your license is expired

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit, a written test, and a vision test. The process is longer and more expensive than renewal.

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can still renew in person or by mail using the standard renewal process. Bring the same documents you would for a current license. You cannot legally drive until your new license arrives, so do not delay.

Medical conditions and license restrictions

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely — such as seizures, severe vision loss, or certain heart conditions — you must renew in person. The Secretary of State may require a medical evaluation form from your doctor before issuing your new license. Some conditions may result in restrictions on your license, such as corrective lenses required or daylight driving only.

If you are unsure whether your condition requires a medical evaluation, contact a Deputy Registrar office or the Secretary of State before your appointment. Bringing the required paperwork ahead of time speeds up the process.

Fees and payment methods

Renewal fees vary based on the license type and validity period. A four-year standard renewal costs less than an eight-year renewal. REAL ID renewals cost more than standard renewals. The exact fee is listed on the Secretary of State website and at Deputy Registrar offices.

In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. If you are paying by check or money order, make it out to the State of Minnesota.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is suspended or revoked?

No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the Secretary of State before you can renew. Contact the Driver and Vehicle Services office to find out what steps are required and what fees you owe.

How long is my new license valid for?

Standard licenses are valid for four or eight years depending on which you choose at renewal. REAL ID licenses follow the same schedule. Licenses expire on your birthday in the year the license is set to expire.

What if I move to a different address before my license expires?

You can update your address without renewing your license by visiting a Deputy Registrar office or using the online address change option on the Secretary of State website. Your license remains valid until its expiration date.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Appointments are not required but are recommended, especially at busy times. Some Deputy Registrar offices and state offices accept online reservations through the Secretary of State website. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary.

What happens if I renew my license but do not receive it within the expected time?

Contact the Secretary of State Driver and Vehicle Services office with your confirmation number or receipt. They can track your license and tell you where it is in the process. If it has been lost in the mail, they can issue a replacement.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.