Get your first driver's license in Minnesota

Online or in person

Start online · At least two visitsComplete the online pre-application at dps.mn.gov/mydvs no more than 30 days before your appointment, and book the written test and road test appointments online. The tests themselves are in person. The written test at a DVS exam station (appointment required), then the road test (appointment required, online or 651-201-7777).

Cost

$29.50 permit + $46 licenseClass D instruction permit $29.50 (valid 2 years); Class D license $46 (DVS fee table). A third and later written test after two failures costs $10; a third and later road test after two failures $20; no-show road test $40.

You leave with

Instruction permit, then a Class D licenseYou get a temporary paper license until the permanent card arrives in the mail.

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • Proof of identity · 2 different documents
     Two primary documents, or one primary and one secondary; one must show your full name and date of birth. No photocopies, laminated or altered documents. A Minnesota license, ID or permit with a photo that is current or expired five years or less also works.
     Show accepted documents (bring 2)

     • Unexpired passport (foreign or domestic) (Primary)
     • Certified birth certificate (Primary)
     • Certified adoption certificate (Primary)
     • Social Security card (Secondary)
     • Current secondary school student ID card (Secondary)
     • School transcript certified by the school (Secondary)
   • Social Security number · all that apply
     Write your Social Security number on the application, or check the box if you have not been issued one.
   • Road test: permit and insurance · all that apply
     Your valid instruction permit, and current proof of insurance for the test vehicle.
     Show accepted documents

     • Original insurance card
     • Policy declaration page
     • E-insurance from the insurer's website or on a device
   • Payment · all that apply

2. Take a free practice test

   Before the knowledge test, try our Minnesota Permit Practice Test: 40 questions like the real exam, based on the official handbook, with every answer explained.

   Start the Minnesota practice test

3. Pre-apply online and book the written test

   Complete the online pre-application at dps.mn.gov/mydvs no more than 30 days before your appointment. Appointments are required for the Class D written test at DVS exam stations.

4. Pass the written and vision tests

   Study the driver's manual. Score 80 percent; you may take only one written test per day. Vision must be at least 20/40. Then complete the permit application and pay the fee. Under 18, your parent or guardian signs and approves it.

   Minnesota Driver's Manual (DVS) ↗

5. Practice with your instruction permit

   Hold the permit at least three months (90 days), with a supervising driver 18 or older in the front passenger seat.

6. Pass the road test

   Book online at dps.mn.gov/mydvs or call 651-201-7777. Bring your permit, proof of insurance and a vehicle whose doors, seat belts and lights work and whose registration is current; a licensed driver must come with you. Under 18, also bring your supervised driving log and White Card. If you fail, you get assigned practice time before your next test.

7. Apply for your license

   When you pass the road test, apply for your Class D license and pay the fee. Your temporary paper license is valid until the permanent card arrives.