Minnesota learner's permit tests are given at Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) exam stations across the state, not at third-party locations or online

You must take your written test in person at a DVS office. Minnesota does not offer remote testing, and you cannot take the learner's permit exam at a private testing center. The state runs all written tests through its own network of exam stations, which means you'll go to a DVS location, check in, and sit for the test at a computer terminal or on paper depending on the office.

The test itself covers road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and safe driving practices from the Minnesota Driver's Manual. You need to pass with a score of at least 80 percent to move forward. If you don't pass, you can retake the test the same day at most locations, though you may have to wait and pay the retest fee again.

Key Takeaways

  • All Minnesota learner's permit written tests are administered at DVS exam stations; you cannot test online or at private centers.
  • You must score at least 80 percent to pass, and retakes are available the same day at most locations for an additional fee.
  • DVS offices are located in every county, and you can find your nearest station and check hours on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of Minnesota residency to your test appointment.
  • Walk-ins are accepted at most DVS offices, but wait times vary; calling ahead or checking online can tell you the current wait.

Finding a DVS exam station near you

Minnesota has DVS offices in every county. The fastest way to find your nearest location is to visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website and use the office locator tool. You can search by city or county, and the results show the address, phone number, and hours of operation for each station.

Some larger cities have multiple DVS locations. For example, Minneapolis and St. Paul each have several offices. If you live in a rural area, your county seat usually has the main DVS office. Call ahead to ask about current wait times, especially if you're planning to go during lunch hours or on a Friday afternoon, when lines tend to be longer.

What to bring to your test appointment

You'll need three things: your Social Security number, a form of identity, and proof that you live in Minnesota. Acceptable forms of identity include a passport, a state ID, a school ID with a photo, or a tribal ID. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or mail from a government agency with your name and current address on it.

If you don't have your Social Security number memorized, write it down before you go. The DVS staff cannot look it up for you. If you're under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign consent forms; ask your local DVS office whether this is required in your county, as rules can vary slightly.

Test format and what to expect on the day

Most DVS offices now offer computer-based testing, which means you'll sit at a terminal and answer multiple-choice questions on a screen. Some smaller offices still use paper tests. Either way, the content is the same: questions about Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and vehicle operation. You have a set amount of time to complete the test, usually around 30 to 40 minutes.

The test is in English. If you need the test in another language, contact your local DVS office in advance to arrange an interpreter or translated materials; not all offices offer this, so call early. You'll receive your score when ready after finishing, and the staff will tell you whether you passed or need to retake it.

Retaking the test if you don't pass

If your score is below 80 percent, you can retake the test the same day at most DVS locations. You'll pay the test fee again, which is currently $10 for the written test. Some offices have a waiting period between attempts, usually 15 to 30 minutes, to give you time to review the manual or study materials.

You're allowed to take the test as many times as you need, but each attempt costs the full fee. If you fail multiple times, consider spending more time with the Minnesota Driver's Manual or a practice test before your next attempt. Many people find that reviewing the sections they missed helps them pass on the second or third try.

Walk-ins versus appointments

Most Minnesota DVS offices accept walk-ins for the learner's permit test, meaning you don't have to schedule ahead. However, wait times vary widely depending on the time of day, day of the week, and season. During back-to-school season (August and September), offices are often busier. Weekday mornings typically have shorter waits than afternoons or weekends.

Some DVS locations now offer online appointment scheduling through the Secretary of State website. If your local office has this option, booking a time slot can save you from waiting in line. Even with an appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to check in and complete any paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the learner's permit test at a different DVS office than the one in my county?

Yes. You can go to any DVS exam station in Minnesota, regardless of which county you live in. Some people choose a location that's more convenient to their work or school. Just bring your proof of Minnesota residency, which can be from any part of the state.

What happens if I fail the test twice?

You can retake it as many times as needed. There's no limit on the number of attempts, but you'll pay the $10 test fee each time. If you're struggling, review the Minnesota Driver's Manual again, focusing on the topics you missed, or use a practice test to identify weak areas before your next attempt.

Do I need to make an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are accepted at most DVS offices, but wait times vary. Some locations now offer online appointment scheduling, which can reduce your wait. Call your local DVS office or check the Secretary of State website to see if appointments are available in your area and what the current walk-in wait time is.

Is the test available in languages other than English?

The test is primarily offered in English, but some DVS offices can arrange interpreters or translated materials if you request it in advance. Contact your local office at least a few days before your test date to ask what options are available and whether they can accommodate your language needs.

What if I lose my test score receipt?

Contact the DVS office where you took the test and ask for a copy of your score. They keep records of all test results. You'll need this documentation to move forward with your learner's permit process, so get a replacement as soon as you realize it's missing.