Minnesota requires you to complete specific steps with the Department of Public Safety before you can drive legally again after a revocation

A revoked license in Minnesota means the state has permanently cancelled your driving privilege, usually because of serious violations like multiple DWIs, reckless driving convictions, or accumulating too many points. Reinstatement is not automatic — you must request it, meet conditions set by the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and often wait a minimum period before you are even allowed to ask.

The process differs depending on why your license was revoked. A revocation for DWI carries different requirements than one for accumulating violations. You will need to contact the DPS Driver and Vehicle Services division, understand your specific revocation reason, complete any required programs, and submit a reinstatement request with supporting documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota enforces a mandatory waiting period before you can request reinstatement — typically one year for most violations, but longer for DWI-related revocations.
  • You must contact the Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services to learn the exact reason for your revocation and what conditions you must meet.
  • DWI revocations usually require completion of a chemical dependency assessment and treatment program before reinstatement is possible.
  • Reinstatement requests must include proof of meeting all conditions, a completed process form, and payment of the reinstatement fee.
  • Even after reinstatement, you may be required to carry an SR-22 insurance certificate or install an ignition interlock device for a set period.

Understanding why your license was revoked

The reason for revocation determines what you must do to get your license back. Minnesota revokes licenses for different violations, and each has its own rules. Common reasons include accumulating 12 or more points within a 12-month period, multiple DWI convictions, refusing a breath or blood test, driving with a suspended license, or criminal convictions related to vehicle use.

You should have received a notice from the DPS explaining the revocation reason when it took effect. If you no longer have that letter, contact the DPS Driver and Vehicle Services office at 651-297-3298 or visit their office in person. They can tell you the exact violation code, the revocation date, and what conditions explore to your case. Write down this information — you will need it for every step that follows.

The mandatory waiting period before you can request reinstatement

Minnesota law sets a minimum waiting period before you can even submit a reinstatement request. For most violations, this is one year from the date the revocation took effect. For DWI-related revocations, the waiting period is longer — typically three years for a first DWI revocation, five years for a second, and ten years for a third or subsequent DWI revocation within ten years.

You cannot shorten this waiting period. The DPS will not accept a reinstatement request before the mandatory period ends. If you submit one early, it will be rejected. Mark your calendar with the date you become may be able to access to request reinstatement, and do not contact the DPS before that date expecting them to process your request.

Required programs and assessments for DWI revocations

If your revocation is related to DWI or refusal to test, you must complete a chemical dependency assessment before the DPS will consider reinstatement. This assessment is conducted by a licensed evaluator approved by the state. The evaluator will interview you, review your driving and substance use history, and determine whether you need treatment.

If the assessment recommends treatment, you must complete the recommended program — which may range from outpatient counseling to inpatient rehabilitation, depending on the assessment results. You cannot skip this step or choose a different program. Once you finish treatment, you will receive a completion certificate. Keep this certificate; you will submit it with your reinstatement request.

For non-DWI revocations, no assessment or treatment program is required, but you may be required to complete a driver improvement course or other educational program depending on the violation. The DPS will specify this when you contact them.

Submitting your reinstatement request to the Department of Public Safety

After the waiting period ends and you have completed all required programs, you can request reinstatement. You must submit a written request to the DPS Driver and Vehicle Services division. You can request the reinstatement process form by calling 651-297-3298, visiting a Driver and Vehicle Services office in person, or downloading it from the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

Your request must include proof that you have met all conditions — for DWI cases, this means your chemical dependency assessment and treatment completion certificate; for other violations, any required course completion documentation. You must also include a copy of your revocation notice (or the case number if you do not have the notice), proof of identity, and payment of the reinstatement fee. The fee amount varies but is typically between $100 and $200.

Mail your completed request to the address provided on the process form, or submit it in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office. Keep a copy of everything you send. Processing typically takes four to six weeks, though it may take longer if the DPS needs to verify your documents or contact treatment providers.

What happens after reinstatement is approved

If the DPS approves your reinstatement request, you will receive written notice and instructions for obtaining a new license. You will need to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office to have your photo taken and receive your reinstated license. Bring your notice of approval, a valid form of identification, and proof of residence.

Your reinstated license may come with restrictions. For DWI-related revocations, you may be required to carry an SR-22 insurance certificate (proof that you carry liability insurance) for three years, or to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for one to three years, depending on the circumstances. These are not optional — driving without meeting these conditions can result in another revocation.

If your reinstatement request is denied

The DPS may deny your reinstatement request if you have not completed required programs, if you have accumulated new violations or convictions since the revocation, or if the DPS determines you are still a safety risk. If your request is denied, you will receive a written explanation of the reason.

You have the right to request a hearing before the Department of Public Safety to challenge the denial. You must request this hearing within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. At the hearing, you can present evidence and testimony about why you should be reinstated. If you lose the hearing, you may be able to reapply after a set period, or you may need to wait until your next may be able to access date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a restricted license while waiting for reinstatement?

No. A revoked license cannot be converted to a restricted or limited license. You cannot drive legally in Minnesota during the revocation period. Driving with a revoked license is a criminal offense that can result in additional charges and penalties.

What if I moved out of Minnesota after my license was revoked?

You can still request reinstatement even if you no longer live in Minnesota. You can submit your request by mail or work with the DPS by phone. However, you must obtain your reinstated license in person at a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office, so you will need to travel back to the state or arrange for someone to help you complete the process.

Do I have to retake the written and driving tests to get my license back?

Not for most revocations. You will need to have your photo taken and pay the reinstatement fee, but you will not retake the written or road tests unless the DPS specifically requires it as part of your reinstatement conditions. The DPS will tell you if testing is required when you submit your request.

What if I have new traffic violations since my revocation started?

New violations or convictions after a revocation can delay or prevent reinstatement. You must disclose any new violations when you submit your reinstatement request. The DPS will review them and may deny your request or extend your waiting period. Be honest about your driving record — the DPS will discover violations through their own records.

How much does reinstatement cost?

The reinstatement fee in Minnesota ranges from about $100 to $200, depending on the reason for revocation. You will also need to pay for your new license photo and any required programs like chemical dependency assessment or treatment. Contact the DPS for the exact fee amount for your specific situation.