How Minnesota reinstates suspended and revoked licenses
Minnesota does not automatically reinstate your license when a suspension or revocation period ends. You must take specific steps with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to get your driving privileges back. The process depends on why your license was suspended or revoked — the reason determines what documents you need, what fees you pay, and whether you must complete additional requirements before reinstatement is possible.
Most suspensions end on a set date, and you can request reinstatement once that date passes. Revocations are permanent removals that require you to meet conditions (like completing a DWI program or paying restitution) before the state will even consider letting you drive again. The difference matters because it changes your timeline and what you have to prove.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota suspensions end on a specific date, but your license does not automatically come back — you must request reinstatement from the Department of Public Safety.
- Revocations are permanent until you meet conditions set by the court or the state, which may include DWI programs, restitution payments, or other requirements.
- You will need your driver's license number, proof of payment for any reinstatement fees, and documentation that you have met all conditions before the state will process your request.
- The reinstatement fee in Minnesota is typically $20 to $680 depending on the reason for suspension, and some suspensions require proof of insurance or a substance abuse evaluation before you can drive again.
- You can request reinstatement by mail, online through the Department of Public Safety website, or in person at a driver's license office.
Determine why your license was suspended or revoked
Your suspension or revocation notice from the state tells you the reason and the date it ends (if it is a suspension). Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, driving with a suspended license, DWI convictions, accumulating too many points, or failure to pay child support. The reason determines what you must do before reinstatement is possible.
If you no longer have the notice, call the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services line at 651-296-6911 or visit the online license status tool at dps.mn.gov. You will need your driver's license number or Social Security number. The state can tell you the exact reason, the suspension or revocation date, and what conditions (if any) must be met before reinstatement.
Meet all conditions before requesting reinstatement
If your suspension is for unpaid fines or child support, you must pay what you owe before the state will reinstate your license. If it is a DWI-related suspension, you may need to complete a substance abuse assessment or DWI education program. Some suspensions require proof of insurance or an ignition interlock device installation. Do not request reinstatement until these conditions are finished — the state will deny your request if they are not.
For revocations, the court order or state notice will list what must happen before you can even request reinstatement. This might include completing a DWI program, paying restitution to a victim, or waiting a minimum number of years. Contact the court that issued the revocation or the Department of Public Safety to confirm you have completed everything required.
Gather the documents you need
You will need your current driver's license number or Social Security number, proof that you have paid any reinstatement fees, and documentation that you have met all conditions. If your suspension was for unpaid fines, bring proof of payment. If it was DWI-related, bring your completion certificate from the substance abuse program or assessment. If you need an ignition interlock device, bring proof of installation.
Some suspensions require an SR-22 form (proof of insurance) or a letter from your insurance company stating you are insured. If you are unsure what documents you need, call the Department of Public Safety at 651-296-6911 before you submit your request. Having everything ready the first time speeds up processing.
Pay the reinstatement fee
Minnesota charges a reinstatement fee that varies by reason. Most fees are $20 to $50 for standard suspensions, but DWI-related reinstatements can cost $680. Some suspensions have no fee. The Department of Public Safety website lists the fee for your specific suspension reason, or you can call 651-296-6911 to ask.
You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check. If you are requesting reinstatement by mail, include a check or money order. If you are requesting online or in person, you can pay by card. Do not send cash through the mail.
Submit your reinstatement request
You have three ways to request reinstatement. The fastest is online through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website at dps.mn.gov — you can submit your request and upload documents without leaving home, and you will receive confirmation when ready. By mail, send your request and documents to the address listed on your suspension notice or call 651-296-6911 for the correct mailing address. In person, visit any Minnesota driver's license office with your documents and fee.
Processing time varies. Online requests typically take 5 to 10 business days. Mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks depending on volume. In-person requests may be processed the same day if everything is in order, though some complex cases require additional review. The state will contact you if they need more information or if your request is denied.
What happens after you request reinstatement
The Department of Public Safety will review your request and documents. If everything is complete and you have met all conditions, your license will be reinstated and you will receive a new physical license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive when ready once the state approves your reinstatement — you do not have to wait for the physical card to arrive.
If your request is denied, the state will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include incomplete documents, unpaid fees, or unmet conditions. You can resubmit your request once you have fixed the problem. If you disagree with the denial, you have the right to request a hearing before the Department of Public Safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive before my license is officially reinstated?
No. You cannot legally drive until the Department of Public Safety approves your reinstatement request. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a crime in Minnesota and will result in additional charges and penalties. Wait for written confirmation from the state before you get behind the wheel.
What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee?
Contact the Department of Public Safety at 651-296-6911 to discuss your situation. Some fees can be waived or reduced based on financial hardship, though this is not may provide. You may also be able to set up a payment plan for larger fees like DWI reinstatements.
How long does reinstatement take if I request it online?
Online requests typically take 5 to 10 business days from submission to approval. You can drive once the state approves your request, even if your physical license has not arrived yet. The state will email or mail you confirmation of approval.
Do I need a new driver's license photo after reinstatement?
No. Your existing license photo is valid after reinstatement. You will receive a new physical card in the mail, but it will have the same photo. You only need a new photo if your license expires or if the state requires it for other reasons.
What if my suspension was for unpaid child support but I have paid part of it?
Partial payment usually does not may have access to for reinstatement. The state requires the full amount owed to be paid before your license is reinstated. Contact the child support enforcement office or the Department of Public Safety to confirm the exact amount due and whether a payment plan is an option.