The Minnesota Driver & Vehicle Services Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division handles driver licensing, motor vehicle registration, and traffic safety programs. This overview covers Minnesota DVS major offerings.
Forms
The DVS furnishes commonly used forms:
- License and ID card applications
- Vehicle title transfers
- Registration renewals
- Filing address changes
- Special plate orders
- Insurance updates
Most standard Minnesota DVS forms can be accessed on the website for completing digitally or printing. Some specialized filings are restricted to in-person applications at DVS exam stations.
Registration Renewal Minnesota Driver & Vehicle Services
Vehicle owners renew Minnesota registrations annually based on the vehicle model year. Renewals can be processed:
- Online
- By mail
- In person
- At deputy registrar offices
Mailed and online registration renewals require current driver’s ID, insurance, mileage/odometer readings, any emission notices, and payment to submit applications.
Appointment Scheduling
Many exam stations now offer scheduled appointments for select high-demand transactions:
- Knowledge and road tests
- Driver’s license issuance
- Vehicle services
- Reinstatement services
Advanced appointments reserve staff availability, help reduce wait times at exam stations. Schedule online up to 6 weeks out.
Driver Exam Stations
Minnesota manages over 90 driver exam stations conducting:
- Knowledge testing
- Road skills testing
- CDL licensing
- Motorcycle credentialing
Driver exam station locator with directions, hours and appointment scheduling links can be found on the DVS office finder map.
2024 Drivers Manual
Minnesota updates its official Drivers Manual every 2 years with law and policy changes. The 2024 handbook covers:
- MN traffic laws
- Licensing application process
- Road sign meanings
- Safe driving techniques
- Special conditions guides
Be sure to study the newest laws and safety recommendations in the 2024 MN Drivers Manual for exams and practice this year. Download online or pick up copies of the manual at your local exam station.
License Renewals Minnesota Driver & Vehicle Services
A Class D driver’s license in Minnesota is valid for 4 years, expiring on your birthday. Licenses can be renewed:
- Online
- In person
Some renewals require a vision screening or updated photograph during application processing at exam stations. Fees start at $25.25 for a basic adult Class D renewal.
License Plates
Alongside regular number plates, specialized Minnesota plates help support:
- State parks and wildlife
- Veterans associations
- Youth initiatives
- Breast cancer awareness
- Collector vehicles
Terms, fees, limits and sign-up details for 50+ plate categories are documented on the DVS specialty plates website section. Qualifications vary widely across plate type.
Drivers License
To obtain an initial Minnesota driver’s license, applicants must:
- Pass knowledge test for instruction permit
- Hold permit minimum 6 months
- Pass behind-the-wheel road test
Those under 18 have night and passenger limits until qualifying for full licensure at 18 with no restrictions. Other licenses have specific requirements in MN.
Contact DVS
Minnesota DVS contact information:
- Phone: (651) 297-3298
- Mail: 445 Minnesota St Suite 190, St Paul, MN 55101
- Website: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/Pages/dvs-content-detail.aspx?pageID=601
The DVS website provides interactive guides for manuals, exam station locating, appointment scheduling, forms, fees, renewal, replacement, driving records, testing, motorcycle endorsement, special plates, and traffic violations.
Minnesota DVS Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common Minnesota DVS inquiries:
What documents do I need to get a REAL ID license?
To upgrade to a federally approved REAL ID license you need 1 primary ID like a valid passport, birth certificate or green card plus proof of social security number and residency documents with your current Minnesota street address listed.
How do I check the status of my license?
You can access your Minnesota license status and driving record transcript online using your license ID number, driver’s license number, or audit tracking number for immediate status reports.
Can I use an out-of-state driver’s license when visiting Minnesota?
Yes, visitors and temporary new residents can legally drive on their current valid out-of-state license for up to 60 days before requiring a Minnesota driver’s license (if establishing in-state residency).
How old do you need to be to get a school permit?
15 years old – Minnesota has a templated School Permit form allowing teens to begin supervised practice driving at 15 years old before taking their license exam around age 16.
When are vehicles required emissions testing for registration?
Model year vehicles from 1996 or newer that register in Minneapolis/St. Paul metro counties must complete emissions or smog checks every other registration renewal period as prompted by the DVS during renewal.
- Further frequently asked questions covering Minnesota vehicle and driver licensing policies can be accessed on the official DVS website linked above.