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Driver's license or ID card variances

Driver's license or ID card variances

When you apply for a Minnesota driver’s license or ID, you may need a variance. A variance can only be used for a Standard or REAL ID card, it cannot be used for Enhanced cards. 

When you apply for a variance, there is a non-refundable fee (see variance form) to apply, and you may be asked for more information in order to continue. A variance approval may allow you to apply for a license or ID without needing to provide the documents we normally accept.  

You can apply by mail, online or at an exam station. 

There are three types of variances we will accept.  

Apply for a Variance using your Minnesota driver’s license or ID card number. 

Homebound photo variance (Standard ID only) 

You may need a homebound photo variance if you are unable to visit an office in person due to your homebound status. You will need to provide proof that you are unable to leave your home due to a medical, physical, mental health condition or infirmity.  Complete the first page of the document, have a physician, case worker or social worker complete the second page and follow the instructions on the Homebound variance form. 

Variance for missing document (Standard and REAL ID only)

You may need this type of variance if you do not have or are unable to get identification, name change or residency documents that you need to apply for a Standard or REAL ID.

You must apply for a variance by mail, online or at an exam station. Include copies of any identification documents you do have and the reasons why you are unable to get the documents you need. Follow the instructions on the Variance form for missing documents. 

Photo related variance 

You may need this type of variance if your religion does not allow you to have your photo taken.  This variance is only available for Standard cards. 

  • Proof for the variance includes:
    • A completed fingerprint card submitted to Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) -or-
      • Allow DVS to take a photo that will remain on your record but will not be printed on your card
    • Valid primary and secondary documents
    • Name change documents if needed. A name change document counts as a secondary
    • Completed variance form
  • To renew a card after you've received the initial variance, you will need to:
    • Submit a new variance application
    • Provide DVS with an updated fingerprint card or photo
    • If your card is expired less than one year you will not need to provide primary and secondary identity documents
  • You can get a fingerprint card from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Many police stations and Sheriff's offices provide fingerprinting services for a fee; you will need to contact them to schedule an appointment.
  • You may need this type of variance if you have an injury or illness that requires you to wear an eye covering or glasses. This variance is only available for Standard or REAL ID cards. Apply for the variance using the variance form.

I received a letter to upload documents related to my variance request

You can upload documents and photos online and they will be added to your variance case. Select the 'Respond to a letter' button below. You'll be taken to our Online Services site. Once you're there, choose Variance Follow Up, which is where you can enter the Letter ID and upload your documents. 

If your letter number is not recognized:

  1. select "Not seeing what you're looking for" on the right then "General Letter Requests."
  2. Provide your license or ID number and your letter number to upload your documents.