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Driver’s License and State ID

Driver’s License

Although obtaining a Driver’s license is a longer process, the Driver’s permit can be obtained as soon as you pass the knowledge test and it is a valid form of identification with privileges to practice driving as long as you are with a +21 year old licensed driver.

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State ID

A valid form of identification to not have to carry to passport around! There are less steps to obtain it, but also less benefits.

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REAL ID

By May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age or older will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card, enhanced driver’s license or ID, passport or passport card or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States or enter federal facilities. A standard Minnesota driver’s license will not be accepted for federal use as of that date, but it will still be valid for lawful driving privileges. We strongly encourage you to get a REAL ID compliant license or identification card.

To apply for a REAL ID document:

A person must provide the following in person when applying:

  • One document proving identity, date of birth and legal presence in the United States.
    • If the name on the identity document is not the same as a person’s current name, a name change document must be submitted.
    • International Students will need a valid, unexpired passport issued by a foreign country and a valid, unexpired U.S. visa accompanied by a Form I-94 as documentation of the applicant’s most recent lawful admittance into the US. If the Form I-94 is endorsed “DS” then a Form I-20, Form DS-2019, or Form I-551​.
  • One document proving social security number.
    •  If you have not updated your name change with the Social Security Administration, you must do so prior to applying for a Real ID.
    • If a foreign passport is used for evidence of identity or date of birth, additional documentation demonstrating non work authorized status may be needed to verify non-eligibility for a Social Security number.
  • Two different documents proving current residency in Minnesota. 
    • Must have applicant’s name as used at print and current address in Minnesota. A P.O. (Post Office) Box will not suffice as proof of current residency in Minnesota.

Additional information about required documents for REAL ID.

FAQ/Cases

  • For Students 18 and Under

    If you are 18 years of age or under, you must apply for and hold a Minnesota instruction permit for at least six months before taking a road test.

    When practicing with a permit, you must be accompanied by a licensed adult driver. If you are under 18, the supervising driver must be 21 years of age or older. If you are 18 or older, the supervising driver must also be 18 years of age or older.
  • Renewing your License

    If you have not yet turned 21, your license will expire on your 21st birthday; otherwise, your driver’s license expires every 4 years on your birthday.

    It is illegal to drive with an expired driver’s license. If you let your driver’s license expire, you may have to pay penalty fees and be required to retake the written or road tests. The fees for renewing your license are listed above.

    What to Bring

    1. Previous driver’s license
    2. Social Security Number

    Process

    1. Go to the DVS office and provide your license.
    2. Complete the renewal application.
    3. Take the vision screening test.
    4. Get your picture taken and provide your Social Security Number.
  • Students from Canada

    If you are a driver moving to Minnesota from Canada, it may be possible for you to get a license by passing the appropriate written test(s) and eye check only. To be able to do this, you must have a valid driver’s license (or one which has been expired for less than one year) from your former home province.
  • What happens if I fail the tests?

    If you fail the written or road test, do not worry. You will not be charged for your second attempt. However, on the third try, you will be charged the following:

    • Written test: $10
    • Driving test: $20
  • What if I have a license from my home country?

    Students who are over 19 years old and have foreign licenses are required to pass both the written and road tests. Once they have passed the written test, students may take the road test at their earliest convenience. (They don’t have to wait 3 months.) There is no fee for the permit because no card is issued. You do need to translate your foreign license, if necessary, through an approved translation vendor, who must fill out this form. This can get pretty pricey; oftentimes it might be more convenient to just buy the permit, unless you have a time limit.

    You can temporarily use your foreign driver’s license to drive in Minnesota, but note that you are required to change to a Minnesota Driver’s License within 60 days of establishing (temporary) residency in the state.
  • Driving Schools

  • What do I do if I receive a letter from the US Selective Service System?

    If you are a legally designated male when you are issued a state ID or driver’s license, you might get a letter from the U.S. government’s Selective Service System that registers a person for possible military service. Almost all male US citizens and immigrants, who are 18 through 25, are required to register with Selective Service. However, if you are on a non-immigrant visa like F-1, you just need to follow instructions on the letter to explain why you are exempt from registration; keep a copy of their letter and your response in case it’s needed in the future. Please visit the Selective Service System’s website for more information and a list of supporting documents to demonstrate you are exempt from registering as an F-1 visa holder.