What you need to bring to the Minnesota DMV

Minnesota requires six documents or pieces of information when you explore for a learner's permit at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. You must bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your Minnesota residency, a completed process form, payment, and parental consent if you are under 18.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, certified birth certificate, or tribal ID. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days. The process form is MN Form DL 44, which you can fill out before you arrive or complete at the office. Payment is currently $20.25 for a permit valid for one year, though fees can change. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the process in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring six items to a DVS office: proof of identity, Social Security proof, residency proof, the completed MN Form DL 44, payment of $20.25, and parental consent if under 18.
  • Your Minnesota learner's permit is valid for one year and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat.
  • You must pass a written knowledge test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving before the permit is issued.
  • You cannot drive alone, use a cell phone while driving, or operate a vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. while holding a learner's permit.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

Before you receive your permit, you must pass a written test at the DVS office on the same day you explore. The test has 40 questions and covers Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need a score of at least 32 correct answers (80 percent) to pass.

The test is taken on a computer at the office. You can study using the Minnesota Driver's Manual, which is free and available online at the DVS website or in print at any DVS office. Many people also use practice tests online to prepare. If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or return another day at no extra cost.

Restrictions that explore while you hold a learner's permit

A Minnesota learner's permit comes with strict rules about who can be in the car and when you can drive. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front seat next to you at all times. You cannot drive alone under any circumstances.

You also cannot use a cell phone, text, or use a hands-free device while driving, even at a red light. The only exception is calling 911 in an emergency. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You must follow all other traffic laws, including speed limits and seat belt rules. Violating these restrictions can result in your permit being suspended and may affect your ability to move to a full driver's license.

Where to go and how long it takes

You explore for your learner's permit at any Driver and Vehicle Services office in Minnesota. There are DVS locations in most cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

The entire process at the office usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the location is. It is a good idea to arrive early in the day or on a weekday if possible, as offices tend to be less crowded. You will fill out your form, show your documents, take the written test, and receive your permit the same day if you pass the test. If you fail, you can retake it when ready or come back another time.

Age requirements and parental consent rules

In Minnesota, you must be at least 15 years old to hold a learner's permit. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present at the DVS office and sign the process form in person. The parent or guardian does not need to bring any documents, but they must show a valid ID to prove they are who they say they are.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent and can explore on your own. You still need to bring all six required documents and pass the knowledge test. Some people wait until they are 18 to avoid needing a parent's signature, but there is no advantage to waiting—the permit rules are the same regardless of age.

What happens after you get your permit

Once you receive your learner's permit, you can begin practicing to drive with a licensed adult in the front seat. Minnesota does not require a minimum number of practice hours before you can take the road test for a full driver's license, but the Driver's Manual recommends at least 50 hours of practice, with at least 10 hours at night.

Your permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. You can take the road test for a full license at any time while your permit is active, but many people practice for several months first. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you will need to reapply and pay the fee again. When you are ready to test for your license, you will schedule a road test appointment at a DVS office and bring your permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered and inspected.

Documents you can and cannot use as proof

Minnesota is strict about which documents count as proof of identity, Social Security, and residency. For identity, only a passport, certified birth certificate, or tribal ID will work. A school ID, library card, or expired passport does not count. For Social Security, only your actual Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099 form, or a tax return counts. A letter from your employer or a bank statement with your number on it does not work.

For residency, the document must be dated within the last 30 days and show your name and current Minnesota address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement works. A credit card bill, insurance bill, or mail from a government agency does not count. If you are not sure whether a document qualifies, call the DVS office before you go, or bring it with you and ask the staff member when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I have a suspended or revoked license from another state?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked in any state, Minnesota will not issue you a permit or license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You will need to contact the state that suspended your license and follow their process to restore it first.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must have a Social Security number to get a Minnesota driver's license or permit. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can explore at DVS. This process can take several weeks.

Do I need to bring my parent if I am 18 or older?

No. If you are 18 or older, you can explore on your own without a parent or guardian present. You only need to bring your six required documents and pass the knowledge test.

Can I take the knowledge test online or at home?

No. The knowledge test must be taken in person at a DVS office on a computer provided by the office. You cannot take it online or by mail.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test the same day at no extra cost, or you can come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each time you retake it, you pay the $20.25 permit fee again.