DVS expands oral exams for standard driver’s licenses
Feb. 10, 2023
As Minnesota has welcomed Afghans and Ukrainians to our state, some things have become clear. Among them: Plenty of people know how to drive safely, but struggle with the written English portion of the Class D knowledge test required to get a standard Minnesota driver's license.
That's why our Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division has expanded group oral exams to two additional locations. Now people can sign up to take the Class D knowledge test orally not only at the Eagan exam station, but also in Anoka and downtown St. Paul.
“Our staff at DVS is dedicated to serving all Minnesotans, regardless of what language they speak," said DVS Director Pong Xiong. “Group oral exams are another example of DVS listening to our customers and implementing their suggestions. We are proud to provide multiple methods for Minnesotans to take their knowledge exam."
Previously, DVS solely provided one-on-one oral testing. DVS acknowledged a gap in our language services and created a policy to expand the testing process to allow for groups, making the exam more accessible. We provide the space and oversee the testing process to ensure it meets the state's legal requirements.
If you know drivers who struggle with written English, you can help them set up a group oral exam. They will need to bring their own interpreter, and interpreters need to have a Minnesota driver's license.
Email your request for your group to
DVSExamGroupTesting.DPS@state.mn.us. Your request must include:
- Location preference (Anoka, Eagan or downtown St. Paul).
- Number of testers (must be at least three and no more than seven).
- The Minnesota ID number and pre-application confirmation number for each person taking the oral test. If the person taking the test does not have a Minnesota ID number, provide the tester's full name, date of birth and pre-application confirmation number.
- Language.
- Name and driver's license number of interpreters.
Keep in mind that it takes 90 minutes to administer the exam orally and the exams are only available by appointment. Appointments are given on a first come, first serve basis due to limited availability.
We cannot book beyond 30 days out, and you need to let us know more than two days in advance if there are any changes to the list of people taking the test.
After you get your appointment, it's important to remember to make sure you have all of your paperwork in order.
Proper identification is required to take the test. If you don't have a Minnesota ID, you need to have a valid primary form of ID to take the test and both primary and secondary identification to apply for a Minnesota credential. For Identification requirements please refer to the list on our
website.
We recommend you arrive at least 15 minutes before the appointment to check-in and verify your identification documents. People who are late will not be allowed to test and will need to reschedule with the interpreter to take the test at a later date.
For more information, visit our
website.
