Minnesota DMV appointments are booked online through the state's licensing system, not by phone or in person

Minnesota does not accept walk-in customers at most driver and vehicle services offices. You must schedule an appointment in advance using the online booking system at mn.gov/dvs (the Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division). The system shows available times at each location, lets you choose your preferred date and time, and sends you a confirmation.

Some transactions do not require an appointment — vehicle registration renewals by mail, for example, or certain title services completed online. But if you need to take a written test, a road test, renew or replace a driver's license in person, or handle a vehicle title issue at an office, you must book a slot first.

The online system is open 24 hours a day. You can book an appointment as soon as you know you need one, though available times vary by location and season. During busy periods (late summer, around holidays), slots fill quickly.

Key Takeaways

  • Book all in-person appointments through mn.gov/dvs; Minnesota does not accept phone bookings or walk-ins at most locations.
  • You will need your driver's license number or state ID number to book, and you must bring the documents listed in your confirmation to your appointment.
  • Appointment availability varies by office and time of year; checking early in the week or early in the morning often shows more open slots.
  • If you cannot keep your appointment, cancel it online at least 24 hours ahead so the slot opens for someone else.
  • Some services like vehicle registration renewal by mail do not require an appointment and can be completed without visiting an office.

How to book your appointment step by step

Go to mn.gov/dvs and look for the "Schedule an Appointment" link on the homepage. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number or state ID number. If you do not have one yet (for example, you are explore for your first license), you may need to contact your local office directly to find out whether they accept first-time applicants by appointment or if you must call ahead.

After you enter your ID number, the system will show you a list of all Driver and Vehicle Services offices in Minnesota. Select the location closest to you or most convenient for your schedule. The map view helps you find offices by city or county.

Once you choose a location, the system displays available appointment times for the next several weeks. Times are organized by date. Select the date that works for you, then choose your preferred time slot. The system will confirm your selection and send you a confirmation email with your appointment number, date, time, and a list of documents to bring.

Save your confirmation email or take a screenshot. You will need your appointment number when you arrive at the office.

What documents to bring to your appointment

The documents you need depend on your transaction type. Your confirmation email will list exactly what to bring. Common documents include your current driver's license or state ID, proof of residence (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of citizenship or legal residency (passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card).

For a road test, bring your current valid driver's license and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. For a written test, bring your ID and any study materials you want to review before the test.

If you are renewing a license that has expired more than one year ago, you may need to retake the written test. Your confirmation will tell you whether a test is required for your specific situation.

Appointment availability and wait times

Availability changes daily and depends on your location and the time of year. Urban offices (Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester) tend to fill up faster than rural locations. If you see no open slots at your preferred office, try searching a nearby location or a different time of day.

Weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.) often have more availability than afternoons or Fridays. If you are flexible, checking the system early in the week can reveal slots that fill by mid-week.

Wait times at your appointment depend on the transaction. A written test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. A road test takes 15 to 20 minutes of actual testing, plus check-in time. License renewals or replacements typically take 20 to 30 minutes. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in.

Canceling or rescheduling your appointment

If you need to cancel or change your appointment, log back into mn.gov/dvs using your driver's license or ID number and find your scheduled appointment. You can cancel or reschedule online. Cancel at least 24 hours before your appointment time so the slot becomes available for another person.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may be charged a no-show fee (currently $10 in Minnesota, though this can change). You will also need to book a new appointment to complete your transaction.

Services that do not require an appointment

Vehicle registration renewals can be completed by mail or online if your vehicle has a valid title and you have no outstanding violations or holds. You do not need an office visit for this.

Duplicate license plates and certain title transfers can also be handled by mail. Check mn.gov/dvs to see which services your situation allows you to complete without an appointment.

If you are unsure whether your transaction requires an appointment, call your local Driver and Vehicle Services office directly. The phone number for your office is listed on the mn.gov/dvs website under "Office Locations."

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume you can walk in without an appointment. Most Minnesota offices will turn you away if you do not have a scheduled slot, even if the office appears quiet.

Do not book an appointment if you do not have the required documents. Showing up without proof of residence or citizenship will result in a canceled appointment and a wasted trip. Check your confirmation email carefully before you go.

Do not forget your appointment number. Write it down or take a photo of your confirmation. You will need it to check in.

Do not wait until the last minute to book. If you need a road test before your license expires, book at least two to three weeks in advance. Slots fill quickly during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment by phone?

No. Minnesota only accepts online bookings through mn.gov/dvs. You cannot book by phone, email, or in person. If you have trouble using the online system, call your local office for technical help, but they cannot book the appointment for you over the phone.

What if I do not have a driver's license number yet?

Contact your local Driver and Vehicle Services office directly. First-time applicants may have different booking procedures. The office phone number is on mn.gov/dvs under "Office Locations."

How far in advance can I book an appointment?

You can typically book up to several weeks in advance through the online system. The exact window varies, but most offices show availability 4 to 8 weeks out. You can also book closer to your needed date if you prefer.

What happens if I miss my appointment?

You will be charged a no-show fee (currently $10) and will need to book a new appointment to complete your transaction. If you realize you cannot make it, cancel online at least 24 hours ahead to avoid the fee.

Can I reschedule my appointment online?

Yes. Log into mn.gov/dvs with your driver's license or ID number, find your appointment, and select the reschedule option. Choose a new date and time, and you will receive a new confirmation email.