A 4-minute lesson from the Minnesota course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Before any test or card, DVS checks who you are. Your documents must prove your full name and date of birth, and a REAL ID or enhanced card needs more proof than a standard one.
Know the rule
To take the written and road tests you must show identification verifying your first, middle and last name and your date of birth. If names don't match across documents, bring proof of each legal name change.
Since Oct. 1, 2023, you can get a standard license, learner's permit or state ID regardless of immigration status; proof of legal presence in the U.S. is not needed.
For a name change through marriage, divorce or court order, show a certified marriage certificate, certified court order or certified divorce decree — and documents for every change if you've had several.
You must give your Social Security number on the application if you have one; if you've never been issued one, check the box. SSNs are not printed on or embedded in cards. If you're eligible and don't provide it, DVS can't process your application.
If you're serving a sentence longer than six months in a jail or correctional facility without a DVS agreement, you can renew your license or ID by mail.
A temporary license for eligible people released from prison in Minnesota, issued without paying outstanding fines or reinstatement fees. It expires 15 months after issue.
Your birth certificate says Maria Lopez, but you're now Maria Chen after marrying. Bring your certified marriage certificate along with your ID documents — a photocopy will be refused.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
When you take the written and road tests, your identification must verify which pieces of information?
Full name and date of birth
Only your last name and address
Only your Social Security number
Full name and home address
Answer: Full name and date of birth
Proper identification for testing must verify your full name and date of birth.