How to Renew Your Minnesota Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Minnesota license through MN DPS. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 4 years

Standard fee $41

Renew early As early as 9 months before expiration

After expiration No grace period for expired licenses

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

A standard driver's license or ID can be renewed online if no changes to information are needed. REAL ID renewals or any data changes require an in-person visit to a DVS office or Exam Station.

Start your online renewal at MN DPS →

Step 2 — Gather your documents

For an in-person renewal, bring:

Your current Minnesota driver license.
Proof of identity (passport, certified birth certificate).
Proof of Minnesota residency — utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your current address (most states require two documents).
Social Security card or W-2.
Payment for the renewal fee (cash, check, or card — varies by office).

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

MN DPS charges $41 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 4 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Vision test administered at each in-person visit; not required for online renewal. Must be at least 20/40 with 105 degrees of peripheral vision. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.

Step 5 — Receive your new license

You'll get a temporary paper license at the DMV that's valid for 30-60 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in 7-14 business days. If your renewal was online, expect 10-21 days mailing time.

REAL ID upgrade in Minnesota

Minnesota offers REAL ID at no extra cost; first-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos require an in-person visit.

Common pitfalls

Don't forget address updates. If you moved since your last renewal, update the address before renewing — many states won't mail to a non-matching address.
REAL ID upgrade requires originals. Photocopies of your birth certificate or passport will be rejected. Bring the originals or certified copies.
Walk-in waits can be 2-4 hours. Book an appointment online at any of Minnesota's DMV offices.

Find your nearest Minnesota office

Use our Minnesota DMV office finder to locate the closest MN DPS location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.

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