You can renew your Minnesota driver's license up to one year before it expires

Minnesota lets you start the renewal process anytime during the 12 months before your license expires. This means if your license expires on March 15, 2025, you can renew it starting March 15, 2024. You do not have to wait until the last minute, and renewing early does not shorten how long your new license lasts — it will still be valid for eight years from the date you renew.

The exact timing matters because Minnesota's renewal system works differently depending on whether you renew in person or by mail. Where you renew determines how soon you get your new license and what documents you need to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew your Minnesota driver's license anytime during the 12 months before it expires, and renewing early does not shorten your license's validity period.
  • Mail renewal takes about two weeks and costs less, but you cannot renew by mail if your address has changed or if your current license was suspended or revoked.
  • In-person renewal at a Driver and Vehicle Services office takes about 30 minutes and works even if your address changed or your license had problems.
  • Your new license will be valid for eight years from the date you renew, regardless of when during the renewal window you complete the process.
  • You will need your current Minnesota driver's license and proof of your current address for either renewal method.

Renewing by mail if your address has not changed

If your address is the same as what appears on your current license, you can renew by mail. You will mail your current license, a completed renewal form, and a check or money order to the address listed on the form. Minnesota processes mail renewals in about two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

Mail renewal costs less than in-person renewal. You will receive your new license by mail once it is processed. This method works only if your address has not changed and your license was never suspended or revoked. If either of those things is true, you must renew in person.

Renewing in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office

You can walk into any Driver and Vehicle Services office during business hours and renew your license on the spot. Bring your current Minnesota driver's license and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days works. The process usually takes about 30 minutes, and you will receive your new license when ready.

In-person renewal is required if your address has changed since your last license was issued, if your license was ever suspended or revoked, or if you want to change your name or sex marker. You will also need to pass a vision test at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, bring them with you.

What happens if you renew before the window opens

If you try to renew more than 12 months before your license expires, Minnesota will not process your renewal. You will need to wait until you are within the 12-month window. This rule applies to both mail and in-person renewal.

If you are unsure whether you are in the renewal window, check your current license — the expiration date is printed on the front. Count back 12 months from that date. If today's date falls between that date and the expiration date, you can renew.

Renewing after your license has already expired

You can still renew after your license expires, but you cannot legally drive until the new one arrives. If you renew by mail, you will be without a valid license for about two weeks. If you renew in person, you get your new license when ready and can drive right away.

Renewing after expiration does not cost extra, and your new license will still be valid for eight years from the date you renew. However, driving with an expired license can result in a traffic citation, so renewing before expiration is the safer choice.

Special situations that require in-person renewal

Some circumstances force you to renew in person even if you would normally be able to renew by mail. These include a change of address, a name change, a change to your sex marker, a suspended or revoked license, or if your current license was issued outside Minnesota. You also must renew in person if you want to add or remove a motorcycle endorsement or a commercial driver's license designation.

If you are not sure whether your situation requires in-person renewal, call Driver and Vehicle Services at 651-297-3298 or visit their website. They can tell you which method works for your specific circumstances.

How to find a Driver and Vehicle Services office near you

Minnesota has Driver and Vehicle Services offices in most counties. You can find the office closest to you on the Minnesota Secretary of State website — search for "Driver and Vehicle Services locations" to find the list with hours and addresses. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you plan your visit.

Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment. Check the office's page on the state website to see whether appointments are needed. If you cannot visit an office during regular business hours, some locations offer evening or Saturday hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No, Minnesota does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail or in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office. Mail renewal is the closest option to online, since you can start the process from home, but you still mail in your physical license and payment.

What if I lost my current license before renewing?

You will need to replace it before you can renew. Go to a Driver and Vehicle Services office with proof of your identity and address. They will issue a replacement license, and then you can renew it using the normal process once you are within the 12-month renewal window.

Does renewing early mean my license expires sooner?

No. Your new license is always valid for eight years from the date you renew, regardless of when during the renewal window you complete the process. Renewing early gives you a longer total period of validity.

How much does renewal cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of license and whether you renew by mail or in person. Contact Driver and Vehicle Services at 651-297-3298 or check their website for current fees, as they can change.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

For mail renewal, you can have someone mail your documents on your behalf. For in-person renewal, you must be present at the office. You cannot authorize someone else to renew your license in person.