DVS: Community resources available as DLFA takes effect
Oct. 3, 2023
Regina Olono Vidales takes a selfie with DPS Commissioner Bob Jacobson, Deputy Commissioner Cassandra O’Hern and others who worked to make sure Minnesotans were ready for Driver’s License for All.
While Regina Olono Vidales' fellow students worried about grades or dating, she was concerned about whether she could drive to school, go to a doctor's appointment or visit her family.
“I was constantly living in a state of fear and anxiety," Olono Vidales said. “This week, that fear and anxiety is finally put to rest. Entire families are being lifted up and transformed by this policy."
Olono Vidales, immigration and democracy organizer for Unidos MN, joined Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Bob Jacobson, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) staff and representatives from our community partners last week to announce the start of Driver's License for All, which went into effect Oct. 1. She is also in the U.S. under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which means she is one of an estimated 81,000 Minnesotans who became eligible this month for a state ID or driver's license.
Watch the launch on the DPS YouTube page.
Starting this week, Minnesotans no longer need to provide proof of legal presence in the U.S. to obtain a standard driver's license. You will need to provide proof of your identity with documents either in English or translated into English. DVS has a list of accepted documents.
Driver's License for All increases equity by providing individuals access to legal driving and valid identification across the state, making it easier for people to do things like drive to school, get their groceries or even pick up their kids from daycare. The license serves as the government-issued ID necessary for doctor's appointments, opening a bank account, obtaining a job or renting an apartment: Things that many of us take for granted.
“Having more licensed drivers on Minnesota's roads helps improve road safety, because licensed drivers must demonstrate their familiarity of driving laws by passing the knowledge and the driving exams," Commissioner Jacobson said. “We fully expect this to be an immensely popular program, and it should be. We ask that people be patient as appointments for the written test will be in high demand."
Organizations including Unidos MN, the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, COPAL of Minnesota and the Minnesota Immigrant Movement have partnered with DVS to get Minnesotans prepared to pass their exams and get their license. Our community partners are connecting people to free educational resources in multiple languages and hosting community education and information sessions to ensure everyone can drive safely.
“This incredible policy will ensure Minnesotans continue to have safe roads, and it is also a testament to this administration's commitment to equity, leadership and, as the governor says, our vision for Minnesota to be the best state to raise a family, regardless of your zip code, race or — in my case — immigration status," Olono Vidales said.
DVS has put together a guide to help you navigate the process. Make your appointment at drive.mn.gov. Slots fill up fast, so check frequently for openings.
