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Driver and Vehicle Services

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety
 

New to Minnesota

To drive legally in Minnesota, you have 60 days after becoming a Minnesota resident in which to apply for your Minnesota driver's license or permit. (Commercial drivers have 30 days.)

Access and print a PDF version of this page.

 

Get Your Minnesota License

Testing 

  • If you are 21 and over and have a valid, unexpired driver’s license from another U.S. state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Virgin Islands, Guam, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Northern Mariana or Canada you do not have to take a written test about Minnesota driving laws and regulations.
  • If you are UNDER 21 you WILL need to take a written test about Minnesota driving laws and regulations.
  • If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must pass a road test.
  • If you have moved to Minnesota from a country other than the ones listed above, you must pass both the written test and the road test.

You Will Need To 

  • Complete a Minnesota driver’s license application and provide your social security number. 
  • Present one primary and one secondary form of identification.
  • Present your driver’s license from your previous state; this will be invalidated and returned to you if the road test is waived.
  • Provide proof of passing the appropriate testing requirements (if applicable).
  • Pass a vision screening and have a photo taken.
  • Pay appropriate Class D fees (see Current Fees). 

Apply for a Minnesota ID Card

Visit a visit a licensing office or exam station to apply for  Minnesota ID card.
 
As a new Minnesota resident you must present:
  • One primary and one secondary identification document (See accepted forms of identification).
    • The primary document must include your full name and the month, day and year of your birth.
    • Documents not in English must be accompanied by a qualified English translation.
    • Documents are subject to verification and may not be accepted if laminated or otherwise altered.
    • If you are a temporary U.S. resident, you may need to show additional proof of your lawful admission period, such as Form I-20, DS-2019, I-797 or other official immigration document or receipt.

Read more about Minnesota ID cards. 

 

Register Your Vehicle in Minnesota

You Will Need

  • A current vehicle title; if the title is not available you'll need the current registration card.
  • The name and address of any current lien holders.
  • The odometer reading on your vehicle.
  • A driver’s license or other acceptable form of identification.

If you are leasing the vehicle, a copy of the lease agreement or a power of attorney from the leasing company, and the company’s Minnesota Tax ID number.

You must pay appropriate fees which include: 

  • Title fee - Typically averages $30
  • Registration tax - Depends on the type and age of the vehicle

Insurance Requirements

When you register a vehicle in Minnesota, you are attesting that the vehicle is properly insured. The Minnesota No-Fault Act requires owners of registered motor vehicles to maintain no-fault insurance. Drivers are also required to carry proof of insurance in the vehicle at all times and to provide it to peace officers upon demand.