Once licensed, you must renew on time, report name and address changes, and know the special rules for service members, veterans and others away from Minnesota.
Know the rule
A Minnesota license usually expires on your birthday and must be renewed every four years after you turn 21. You must pass a vision test to renew. A lost, damaged or destroyed license needs a duplicate; if lost, bring proper ID when you renew.
Handbook p. 22 ↗Apply for a duplicate license after a name or address change
Handbook p. 22 ↗Know the rule
If you need a replacement instruction permit, you must renew your permit.
Handbook p. 22 ↗Active military service
- Valid MN license when you enter: no renewal needed until separation or discharge
- Send DVS military documents showing your entry date (online or by mail)
- Renew within 1 year of separation with your license and DD-214 papers
- Also covers a spouse, domestic partner or dependents under 26 living outside MN
- Moving in with an out-of-state license expired 1+ year: road test may be waived
- Still serving? Provide an In-Service letter from your commanding officer
Know the rule
Peace Corps volunteers and federal foreign service employees with a valid Minnesota license don't renew until service ends, then must renew within one year with their license and service papers. This also covers a spouse, domestic partner or dependents under 26 living outside Minnesota.
Handbook p. 23 ↗Veteran indicator on your license or ID
- You must be separated from the military
- At least 181 total days of active service, Honorable or General (under Honorable)
- National Guard/Reserve retirees and Secret War in Laos veterans also qualify
- Proof: DD214, WD AGO, NAVPERS or NGB 22; retiree, veteran or VA health ID; Laos form
- Optional — it may help with veteran discounts and doesn't affect VA benefits
Know the rule
Veterans with a 100 percent total service-connected disability are exempt from sales, registration and wheelage taxes on up to two vehicles, and from title, license, ID and filing fees.
Handbook p. 22 ↗Know the rule
U.S. citizens and residents aged 18 to 26 are registered with Selective Service when they apply for any license or ID; for applicants under 18, registration waits until the 18th birthday.
Handbook p. 23 ↗Know the rule
You may hold only one type of card (Standard, REAL ID or Enhanced). DVS won't issue a state ID to someone with a valid license or permit unless they sign a downgrade statement giving up driving privileges.
Handbook p. 23 ↗Fast track (expedited) service
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Extra fee | $20 |
| Processing | Within 3 business days |
| Delivery | UPS within 10 business days; an adult must sign |
| Not available for | First-time cards, enhanced cards, upgrades |
Put it into practice
You move across town on June 5. Apply for a duplicate license with your new address by July 5 — within 30 days — even though your license doesn't expire for two more years.