How to Renew Your Minnesota Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Minnesota driver's license in person at any Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and costs $24.50 for a standard four-year renewal. Online renewal costs $16.50 and takes about 10 minutes, but only works if your license is not expired, you have no address changes, and you're not renewing a commercial license.

Before you go to a DVS office or start an online renewal, gather your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Minnesota Secretary of State website costs $16.50 and works only if your license is not expired and you have no address changes.
In-person renewal at any DVS office costs $24.50, takes about 30 minutes, and handles address changes, name changes, and expired licenses.
You will need your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address for any renewal method.
A renewed license is valid for four years from the date you renew, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.

Renewing online through the Secretary of State website

Go to the Minnesota Secretary of State website and select the driver's license renewal option. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and show you a preview of the information on your new license.

Review the preview carefully. If everything is correct, you'll pay the $16.50 fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to make any changes — such as updating your address, correcting your name, or changing your organ donor status — you cannot do this online and must visit a DVS office instead.

Renewing in person at a DVS office

Find your nearest DVS office on the Minnesota Secretary of State website. You can schedule an appointment online, which reduces wait time, or walk in during office hours. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. If your name or address has changed, bring the documents that show the change.

At the office, a staff member will review your documents, take a new photo, and ask you to sign. You will pay $24.50 by cash, check, or card. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Your new license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you need a license sooner — for travel or work — you can request a rush renewal for an additional $10 fee, which delivers your license within 3 to 5 business days.

When you can renew and how long your license lasts

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. This means if your license expires on June 15, you can renew starting June 15 of the previous year. Renewing early does not shorten the life of your new license — a renewed license is always valid for four years from the date you renew it.

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online. You must visit a DVS office in person. An expired license can still be renewed; you do not have to retest or start over. However, if your license has been expired for more than five years, DVS may require you to pass a vision test and written exam before issuing a new one.

Address changes and name changes during renewal

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address during renewal. Online renewal does not allow address changes, so you'll need to visit a DVS office. Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A post office change-of-address form is not accepted as proof of address.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, bring the document that shows the change along with your current license and proof of address. You can renew your license with a name change either online (if your address has not changed) or in person. If you change your name but do not update your license, your license will still show your old name.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

Driving on an expired license in Minnesota is a traffic violation. If you are stopped by police, you can be cited and fined. However, your expired license can still be renewed — you do not lose the right to renew just because it has lapsed. Visit a DVS office with your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.

If your license expired more than five years ago, DVS will require you to pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test before issuing a new one. The written test covers Minnesota traffic laws and road signs. You can study using the Minnesota Driver's Manual, available free on the Secretary of State website. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Minnesota law requires proof of a Social Security number to renew a driver's license. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact your nearest DVS office to discuss your options. Some individuals may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this must be verified by DVS staff.

What if I moved and my address proof is older than 60 days?

You will need a document dated within the last 60 days. If your utility bill or lease is older, bring a recent bill from a different utility, your mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a letter from your landlord on official letterhead confirming your current address. A post office change-of-address notice does not count as proof of address.

How long does it take to get my license if I pay for rush renewal?

Rush renewal costs an additional $10 and delivers your license within 3 to 5 business days. You still receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days on the day you renew. Rush renewal is only available in person at a DVS office, not online.

Do I have to take a new photo when I renew?

Yes. A new photo is taken every time you renew your license in person. If you renew online, your photo from your current license is used on your new license. If you want a new photo when renewing online, you must renew in person at a DVS office instead.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You cannot renew online without your current license number. Visit a DVS office and bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. You will be issued a replacement license, which counts as a renewal if your old license has not yet expired.

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.