If I am a new resident, do I need a new Minnesota license?
Yes, if you move from another state or another country to Minnesota, and you want to drive a vehicle here. You have 60 days from moving here to apply for a Minnesota driver’s license.
During those 60 days, you can drive with an out-of-state license from the US or Canada, but it is advisable to start the application process as soon as possible.
Different rules apply to commercial drivers. Additionally, special rules apply to active duty military personnel and their families.
What do I need to do to get a Minnesota driver’s license?
You will submit your application to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services or DVS.
If you have a valid license from another US state, US Territory, or Canada, or that license has expired less than a year ago, you must pass a knowledge test and a vision test .
If you are moving here from another country, or if you have a US or Canadian license that expired more than a year ago, you will need to pass a road test, knowledge test, and vision test.
How do I find a DVS office?
Each office handles one or more of the license applications, written tests, road tests or vehicles. This will be annoying, especially if you come from a state that has all the services in one office.
It is more convenient to go to an office that offers the written test and accepts license applications so that you can get everything done in one visit. Check the DVS website for the nearest office that does this.
DVS offices also have fairly limited opening hours, so check before visiting.
What identification will I need?
You will need proper identification to take the written exam, road test, and application for a license. This is what the DVS will accept.
- Either a driver’s license with a photo from Minnesota or another US state that is current or has expired for less than five years. If you don’t have a photo, it must be current or expired less than a year ago.
- Or, if you don’t have a US driver’s license, you need a primary and a secondary ID.
The main document must contain your full legal name and date of birth. Examples are a valid passport, U.S. birth certificate, or permanent residency card.
The secondary document must have your full name. Some examples are a social security card from the US, a certificate of studies or a certified birth certificate from another country.
The complete list of documents acceptable as primary and secondary identification is available on the DVS website.
If your full name is different from the name on your ID, you must also provide proof of your legal name change.
What if you have a valid license from out of state, but cannot present it with your application? What happens if it is lost or stolen? A copy of your out-of-state driver’s record is acceptable in lieu of your license. Contact the DMV in that state to get your driver’s record.
The written test
You will need your ID to take the test.
The written exam has 40 questions, all multiple choice or true or false.
The test is based on information in the Minnesota Driver’s Manual. The manual is available on the Internet, at and at DVS road test and knowledge offices. You can also request that a copy be sent to you.
At most test sites in the metropolitan area, the test is computerized and available in several different languages. You will sit in front of a computer, listen to the question, and make a selection on the touch screen. The test is not timed. In non-computerized locations, it is a traditional pencil and paper test.
There is no fee for taking the test the first or second time, but if you need to do it a third time or later, there is a fee. Only one test can be taken per day.
Once you pass the test, you will be given a copy of the test results that you will need to request to obtain a license.
The road test
There are no road test offices in Minneapolis or St. Paul. The closest road test offices to the Twin Cities metropolitan area are in Eagan, Chaska, Plymouth, Stillwater, and Hastings. It is advisable to make an appointment for your exam by calling the exam office.
You will need your ID to take the road test. Additionally, you will need to provide a vehicle to perform the test.
- The vehicle must be legal and operational. Try the funny noises you are making first, or you may not be allowed to take the test.
- The passenger door must be opened properly from both inside and outside of the vehicle.
- The seat belt must function properly, as must the brake lights, signals, and headlights.
- You will need to provide valid proof of insurance for the test vehicle. It has to be the actual insurance card or policy, not a copy or print from the Internet.
- Vehicle registration must be current.
You will be asked to demonstrate the use of safety equipment, control and driving your vehicle. Your ability to drive your vehicle safely under normal conditions will be evaluated, obeying normal rules and regulations.
Only the requesting driver is allowed in the car during a test with an examiner.
There is no fee for the first or second test. If you don’t pass the first two, there is a fee for the third and subsequent tests.
If you pass, you will receive a copy of the test results, which you will need to request for your license.
Application for your Minnesota driver’s license
You have passed the knowledge test. You have passed the practical exam. Congratulations!
Now you can make your license request. At any office that accepts license applications, please submit your knowledge test pass results, driving test (if applicable), your ID, and any other driver’s licenses you hold.
You will have to pass a vision test and your photo will be taken. Smile!
Any US driver’s license will be invalidated by cutting the corner. Foreign driver’s licenses will not be invalidated and will be returned to you.
Pay the application fee and you’re done. You will receive a receipt for your request to use in lieu of your license. You will have to show this if you are stopped by the police, or if you need proof of your license, but it cannot be used as identification.
Your new Minnesota license will arrive in the mail in a couple of weeks.
Questions about applying for a Minnesota license?
The Minnesota DMV website is not very user friendly, but if you need further assistance, the DMV staff is very helpful with any questions you may have over the phone. Contact numbers for DMV departments, including driver’s licenses, are listed on the DMV website.
Register a vehicle in Minnesota
In addition to applying for a Minnesota driver’s license, new residents must register their car within 60 days of arriving in Minnesota. Here’s how to register your vehicle in Minnesota.
