Get a replacement license by visiting a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office with proof of identity and residency

Minnesota issues replacement licenses the same day you explore at any Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. You do not need to retake the written or road test. The process takes about 30 minutes once you are called, and you walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 60 days while your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

You will need two documents: one for identity (a passport, military ID, or birth certificate) and one for current Minnesota residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). A Social Security card or number is also required. If you do not have these documents, you can still get a license, but the process takes longer and may require additional steps through the state.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a valid identity document and proof of Minnesota residency dated within 60 days to any DVS office to replace your license the same day.
  • The fee for a replacement license is $16.50 if you are replacing a lost or damaged card, or $24.50 if your license has also expired.
  • Your temporary paper license is valid for 60 days; your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you do not have the required documents, you can still explore, but you will need to provide additional proof of identity through a longer verification process.
  • You can replace your license at any of Minnesota's 90 DVS offices during regular business hours without an appointment.

What documents you need to bring

Minnesota requires one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in the state. For identity, acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, military ID, birth certificate, tribal ID, or a previous Minnesota driver's license. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, property tax statement, or insurance policy — any of these dated within the last 60 days.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still replace your license, but you will need to bring additional documents and the process may take longer. Bring the originals, not copies. DVS staff will verify the documents on the spot.

If your lost license was a Real ID-compliant card (marked with a gold star in the upper right corner), your replacement will also be Real ID-compliant at no extra cost, as long as your identity and residency documents meet federal standards.

Where to go and what to expect

Minnesota has 90 DVS offices open to the public. The largest are in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, and Mankato, but every county has at least one location. You do not need an appointment. Walk in during business hours — most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some are open Saturday mornings.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in smaller towns often have shorter lines than those in the Twin Cities. If you want to check the current wait time before you go, call the DVS office directly or visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website, which lists phone numbers and hours for each location.

When you arrive, take a number at the entrance and wait to be called. Bring all your documents and be ready to answer questions about your address, signature, and whether you have any medical conditions that affect your driving. The staff member will take your photo and fingerprints, verify your documents, and process your replacement license on the spot.

The cost and what you receive

A replacement license costs $16.50 if your current license is still valid. If your license has also expired, the replacement costs $24.50. Payment is cash, check, or card — all DVS offices accept all three. There are no additional fees for Real ID compliance or for mailing your card.

You will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot, valid for 60 days. This temporary license has the same legal weight as a plastic license for driving, identification, and age verification. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to the address you provide at the office and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DVS office where you applied.

If you do not have the required documents

You can still replace your license without a birth certificate or passport, but you will need to provide other proof of identity. Acceptable alternatives include a school ID, employee ID, insurance policy, or a notarized letter from someone who has known you for at least two years and can verify your identity. You will also need to bring proof of residency.

If you cannot provide any of these documents, DVS can issue a license through a longer verification process. You will fill out an process, provide your Social Security number, and DVS will verify your identity through state and federal records. This process takes 1 to 2 weeks, and you will receive your license by mail rather than on the same day. Call your local DVS office to ask about this option before you visit.

Replacing your license if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal petition — bring a document that proves the change. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. DVS will update your name on your new license at no extra cost.

If your name change was recent and you do not yet have an official document, ask the DVS staff what they can accept. Some offices will work with you if you bring a notarized statement or a certified copy from the court that issued the order.

What happens if your license was suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward replace it. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or medical conditions reported to the state.

Before you go to a DVS office, contact the Department of Public Safety at 651-296-6911 or visit their website to check your driving record. If there is a suspension or revocation on your record, the DVS staff will not issue a replacement license until it is lifted. Once you have resolved the issue, you can return to DVS to get your replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Minnesota requires you to appear in person at a DVS office to replace a lost license. You must provide your documents and have your photo and fingerprints taken. There is no mail-in or online option for replacements.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still replace it at any Minnesota DVS office. Bring your identity and residency documents as usual. If you are currently living outside Minnesota, you will need to provide proof that you still live in Minnesota — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement mailed to your Minnesota address within the last 60 days will work.

How long is my temporary paper license good for?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. Your permanent plastic license should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If your plastic license arrives before the 60 days are up, the temporary license is no longer valid.

Do I need to renew my license if I am replacing a lost one?

No. A replacement license has the same expiration date as your original license. You only pay the replacement fee, not a renewal fee. If your original license has already expired, you will pay the higher replacement fee of $24.50, which includes renewal.

What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?

Contact the DVS office where you applied. If the card is damaged, they will issue a new one at no cost. If there is an error in your name, address, or other information, bring proof of the correct information and DVS will reissue your license for free.