Minnesota's Real ID driver's license replaces the standard license and works for domestic flights and federal buildings

Minnesota offers a Real ID-compliant driver's license that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. This license has a gold star in the upper right corner and works for domestic air travel, entry to military bases, and access to federal buildings. If you want to fly within the United States or enter a federal facility, you will need either this Real ID license or an alternative document like a passport.

The state began issuing Real ID licenses in 2009. You do not have to get one — Minnesota still issues standard driver's licenses without the star — but the federal government will not accept a standard license for domestic flights after May 7, 2025. If you fly or visit federal buildings, getting the Real ID version now avoids problems at security checkpoints later.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota's Real ID license has a gold star and is issued by the Department of Public Safety at any Driver and Vehicle Services office.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, and your Social Security number or proof you do not have one.
  • The license costs the same as a standard license and lasts eight years for adults under 65, or four years if you are 65 or older.
  • Processing takes about 30 minutes in person; you cannot renew a Real ID license by mail or online.
  • If you already have a standard Minnesota license, you can exchange it for a Real ID version at any Driver and Vehicle Services office.

What documents you need to bring

Minnesota requires three categories of documents. First, proof of identity: a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or an expired Minnesota driver's license or ID card. If your only ID is expired, bring it anyway — the state accepts it as proof of identity for Real ID purposes.

Second, proof of Minnesota residency: a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government check or benefit statement also works. The document must show your name and current Minnesota address.

Third, your Social Security number or proof that you do not have one. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that fact. You will also need to sign an affidavit at the office.

how the process works in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office

Visit any Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office in Minnesota. The state operates offices in most counties; you can find the nearest one and check hours on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. Bring all three document categories listed above, plus your current driver's license or ID card if you have one.

At the office, you will complete an process form, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. The cost is the same whether you choose a standard or Real ID license. Processing takes about 30 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your permanent Real ID license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot renew a Real ID license by mail or online. If your Real ID license is expiring, you must return to a DVS office in person to renew it. Standard licenses can be renewed by mail or online, but Real ID licenses cannot.

Real ID license fees and validity periods

A Real ID driver's license costs the same as a standard Minnesota driver's license. The fee varies slightly depending on whether you are renewing, replacing, or obtaining your first license, but the Real ID designation does not add an extra charge.

The license is valid for eight years if you are under 65 years old at the time of issue. If you are 65 or older, the license is valid for four years. These validity periods are the same for both Real ID and standard licenses.

Converting a standard license to Real ID

If you already hold a standard Minnesota driver's license without the gold star, you can exchange it for a Real ID version at any DVS office. You will need to bring the same documents as someone obtaining a Real ID for the first time: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or proof you do not have one.

The exchange takes about 30 minutes and costs the same as a standard license. Your new Real ID license will be valid for eight years (or four years if you are 65 or older) from the date of issue, regardless of when your old license was issued.

What happens if you do not get a Real ID license

You can continue to use a standard Minnesota driver's license for driving and most everyday purposes. However, starting May 7, 2025, a standard license will not work for domestic air travel or entry to federal buildings. At airport security, you will need to show a Real ID license, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID.

If you do not fly or visit federal facilities, a standard license remains valid indefinitely for driving. The choice is yours, but the federal important date means that anyone who flies domestically should plan to get a Real ID license before May 2025.

Real ID and name changes, address changes, or replacement cards

If your name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must visit a DVS office in person to update your Real ID license. Bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your current license and proof of residency.

If you move within Minnesota, you can update your address by mail or online for a standard license, but Real ID licenses require an in-person visit. If your Real ID license is lost or stolen, you must go to a DVS office to report it and obtain a replacement. The replacement will be a new Real ID license valid for eight years from the date of issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Minnesota issues Real ID licenses only to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. You will need to bring proof of citizenship or permanent residency. If you are not in one of these categories, you can obtain a standard Minnesota driver's license instead.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you do not have a Social Security number. You will also sign an affidavit at the DVS office confirming this. The process otherwise remains the same.

How long does it take to receive my Real ID license in the mail?

Your permanent Real ID license arrives within 7 to 10 business days of your in-person visit. You receive a temporary paper license when ready that you can use for identification until the permanent card arrives.

Can I renew my Real ID license online or by mail?

No. Real ID licenses must be renewed in person at a DVS office. Standard licenses can be renewed by mail or online, but the Real ID designation requires an in-person visit every time you renew.

What if my proof of residency document is older than 60 days?

Minnesota requires residency documents dated within the last 60 days. If your document is older, bring a more recent one such as a current utility bill or bank statement. If you cannot obtain a recent document, contact your local DVS office to discuss other options.