What's New?

Don't Forget to Deduct Your State Vehicle License Fee

​About to file your taxes? Don't forget about this tax deduction!

Minnesotans can deduct a portion of their state vehicle license fee when itemizing deductions on their federal return. Just plug in your driver license or license plate number on this website to find out how much you paid for tabs in 2014.

There Might Be an Odorless and Invisible Gas in Your Home

​​Your stove, furnace or fireplace could be putting you at risk if it’s producing dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months because people may use unsafe heat sources or not follow fire safety rules. Make sure your CO alarms are working properly and test them once a month. Clear snow build-up from dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace vents. And never use grills inside.

Don’t Forget to Test Your Smoke Alarm

​Three minutes. That is approximately how long it takes to test 10 alarms (smoke, heat and carbon monoxide) in a standard home. Smoke alarms save lives — but only if they work. Have you tested yours this month?

Graduated Driver License Law Now in Effect

​Effective January 1, 2015, the Graduated Driver License Law will include a parent awareness class, more supervised practice for teen drivers, and a supervised driving log. Parents should contact their local driver education provider to learn when the next parent awareness class will be held.  

Got An Idea To Improve Traffic Safety? Let Us Know.

​If you have an idea to save lives and reduce injuries on Minnesota roads, we want to hear from you. The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is seeking new proposals to change drivers’ behavior. The OTS is particularly interested in reducing impaired driving (from prescription drugs, illegal drugs, alcohol) and distracted driving. The informal idea solicitation form provides information on how to submit your idea. Deadline is 4 p.m. on March 16.

Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center Courses Open for Registration

​The snow is still falling, but it’s time to start thinking about dusting off and honing your motorcycle skills to prepare for the upcoming riding season. Schedules are posted and registration is open for all Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center (MMSC) courses. There are some new courses to look for this year including the Motorcycle Road Guard Course and 3-Wheel Basic Rider Course. Review the 2015 Rider Training Brochure to learn more about each training opportunity, choose a training site and register for a course.