Where to renew and what documents you need
You can renew your Minnesota driver's license at any Deputy Registrar office or at a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. Deputy Registrars are scattered across the state in local government buildings, libraries, and private businesses — there are roughly 200 of them. The main DVS office is in St. Paul, but there are also DVS stations in Duluth, Rochester, and Mankato.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of Minnesota residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 30 days), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree. You do not need to bring a new photo unless you want one — Minnesota allows you to keep your existing photo on renewal.
The fee is $48 for an eight-year renewal. If you are 65 or older, the fee is $24 for a four-year renewal. Payment is cash, check, or card, depending on the location.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew at any Deputy Registrar office or at a DVS location; Deputy Registrars are usually closer and have shorter wait times.
- Bring your current license, proof of residency dated within 30 days, and proof of your Social Security number.
- You can keep your existing photo or request a new one at no extra cost.
- The standard renewal fee is $48 for eight years; seniors 65 and older pay $24 for four years.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days; you can drive on your old license until it arrives.
Online renewal and mail-in options
Minnesota does not offer full online renewal. However, you can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo. Mail your current license, the completed Form DL-44 (available on the Minnesota DVS website), proof of residency, and the $48 fee to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the office receives your packet.
If you are renewing before your license expires, mailing is the simplest route because you avoid a trip and a wait. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person.
Timeline and when your new license arrives
In-person renewals are processed on the spot. You receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, and your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive on your old license until the new one arrives, so there is no gap in your driving privilege.
Mail-in renewals take longer because the office must receive and process your packet. Plan for 10 to 14 business days total. If you need your license sooner — for travel or a job requirement — renew in person instead.
Renewing a license that has expired
If your license expired less than five years ago, you can renew it at a Deputy Registrar or DVS office using the same process as a standard renewal. You will need the same documents: current (expired) license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
If your license expired more than five years ago, Minnesota treats it as a new license process, not a renewal. You will need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test. You must also provide a certified birth certificate or passport in addition to the other documents. This process takes longer and costs more ($48 for the license plus test fees). If you are in this situation, contact your local Deputy Registrar or DVS office ahead of time to confirm what tests and documents they require.
Address changes and license updates
You can update your address on your license without renewing it. Visit any Deputy Registrar or DVS office with your current license and proof of your new residency. There is no fee for an address-only change, and it is processed when ready.
If you are renewing anyway, straightforward provide your new address when you renew, and it will be printed on your new license at no extra cost.
What to do if you lose your license before renewal
If your license is lost or stolen before you renew, you must get a replacement before you can renew. A replacement costs $20 and requires your current license number or date of birth. Once you have the replacement, you can renew it using the standard renewal process.
You cannot renew a license you do not have in your possession, even if you know the number. The office needs to verify the physical license or have it on file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have an out-of-state address?
No. Minnesota requires proof of residency in the state to renew. If you have moved out of Minnesota, you must get a license from your new state. If you are temporarily out of state but still a Minnesota resident, you can renew by mail using Form DL-44, as long as you have proof of a Minnesota address.
What if I want a new photo on my renewed license?
You can request a new photo at any Deputy Registrar or DVS office when you renew in person. There is no extra charge. If you renew by mail, you cannot get a new photo — you will keep your existing one.
Do I need an appointment to renew at a Deputy Registrar?
Most Deputy Registrar offices do not require appointments and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, some locations in busy areas may have online scheduling. Check your local office's website or call ahead to confirm their process.
What happens if my name changed since my last license?
Bring the document that shows your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name in the system and print it on your new license. This does not cost extra.
Can I drive on my temporary paper license after it expires?
No. Your temporary license is valid for 30 days. If your permanent license has not arrived by then, contact DVS. In rare cases, you can request an extension, but you should not drive without a valid license.