How to book a Minnesota driver's test appointment

In Minnesota, you schedule a driver's test appointment through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), either online at mn.gov/dvs or by calling the Driver and Vehicle Services line. The online system lets you pick a test site and date that works for you; the phone line requires you to speak with an agent who will find available slots. Most people get an appointment within two to four weeks, though timing varies by location and season — rural areas often have shorter waits than the Twin Cities.

You cannot walk in for a test. Minnesota requires advance scheduling, and test sites do not hold same-day slots. You will need to know which type of test you are taking (Class D for regular driving, Class A or B for commercial vehicles) and have your learner's permit or valid ID ready when you book.

Key Takeaways

  • Book your test through mn.gov/dvs online or by calling the DPS Driver and Vehicle Services line — walk-ins are not accepted.
  • You must hold a valid learner's permit for at least 30 days before taking a Class D driving test.
  • Bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and proof of residence to your test appointment.
  • Test sites are located at Driver Examination Stations across Minnesota; the online booking system shows which locations have openings.
  • If you miss or need to reschedule, contact DPS at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid losing your test fee.

What you need before you can book

Before scheduling, you must hold a valid Minnesota learner's permit that has been in your possession for at least 30 days. The permit itself shows the date it was issued; DPS will not let you book a test until that 30-day window has passed. If you are under 18, you also need to have completed a driver's education course and held your permit for the full waiting period.

You will also need to know your Social Security number and have a form of ID ready — your learner's permit counts, but you can also use a passport or state ID. If you are booking by phone, have this information available before you call, as the agent will need it to pull up your record and confirm your permit status.

Booking online versus calling

The online system at mn.gov/dvs is faster if you know which test site you prefer. You log in with your driver's license number or learner's permit number, select your test type, and see all available dates and times at each location. You can book when ready and receive a confirmation number on screen. This method works 24/7 and takes about five minutes.

Calling the DPS Driver and Vehicle Services line is necessary if you cannot access the online system or need help understanding which test type you need. The phone line is staffed during business hours, and wait times vary. An agent will ask you the same questions the online form does — your permit number, test type, preferred location — and will read back available slots. You will receive a confirmation number by phone and should write it down.

Test sites and how to find one near you

Minnesota operates Driver Examination Stations in most counties. The online booking system displays all active locations and their current availability. Urban areas like Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester typically have multiple sites; rural counties may have one or two. Each site handles the same test standards, so choosing based on location and your preferred date is the main factor.

When you search online, the system shows you wait times for each location. If your nearest site has a four-week wait but a site 30 minutes away has an opening in two weeks, you can see that trade-off before booking. Some people choose a farther location to test sooner; others prefer to wait for a closer site. Both are valid choices.

What to bring on test day

Bring your learner's permit, a form of government-issued photo ID (passport, state ID, or military ID), and proof of Minnesota residence (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days). You will also need to bring the vehicle you will be testing in — it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before the test begins.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your confirmation number or have it ready on your phone. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, the site may cancel your appointment and you will forfeit your test fee.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you need to change your test date or location, contact DPS at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. You can reschedule online if you log back into mn.gov/dvs, or you can call the Driver and Vehicle Services line. Canceling with less than 24 hours' notice usually means you lose your test fee, though DPS may make exceptions for documented emergencies.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you will be charged a no-show fee in addition to losing your test fee. The fee is non-refundable, so if you cannot make the appointment, contact DPS as soon as you know.

Test fees and payment

The Minnesota driver's test fee is a flat amount that you pay at the time of your appointment — either when you book online or when you arrive at the test site if you booked by phone. The fee covers one test attempt. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test, and you will pay the fee again. Some test sites accept cash, card, or check; online booking typically requires a card.

The fee does not change based on test type or location. Check mn.gov/dvs for the current fee amount, as it can change year to year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a test appointment if I am under 18?

Yes, but you must have completed a driver's education course and held your learner's permit for at least 30 days. You also need a parent or guardian to sign your permit process. When you book, you will need your permit number and a valid ID.

What happens if I fail my test?

You can schedule another test appointment as soon as you are ready. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee again for each attempt. Many people wait a few days or a week to practice before booking their next appointment.

Can someone else book a test appointment for me?

No. You must book your own appointment using your learner's permit number or driver's license number. The system requires your personal information to confirm your permit status and may be able to access.

How long does a driver's test take?

The written portion takes 20 to 30 minutes, and the road test takes 15 to 20 minutes. Plan to be at the test site for about an hour total, including check-in and waiting time.

What if the test site I want is fully booked?

Check other nearby locations — they may have earlier openings. You can also call DPS to ask if cancellations are expected soon, though they cannot hold a spot for you. Some people book at a farther site and then cancel if a closer one opens up.