How to Renew Your Minnesota Driver's License

Minnesota driver's license renewal: online, by mail, or in person

You can renew your Minnesota driver's license online through the state's REAL ID-compliant system, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a REAL ID endorsement, and how soon you need the new card.

Most people renew online because it takes about 10 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal. Mail renewal works if your license hasn't expired and you don't need to update your photo or address. In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need a new photo, or if you're explore for REAL ID for the first time.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Minnesota Secretary of State website is the fastest and cheapest option for most people, and you can start it up to one year before your license expires.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online process and pay the renewal fee.
Mail renewal is available only if your license is still valid and you don't need to change your photo, address, or name.
In-person renewal at a DVS office is required if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need REAL ID for the first time, or if you want to update your photo when ready.
REAL ID is a federal security standard required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings starting May 7, 2025; a standard Minnesota license will no longer work for these purposes after that date.

Online renewal: the fastest route for most drivers

Go to the Minnesota Secretary of State website and log into your account using your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You can start the renewal process up to one year before your license expires. The system will show you your current information and ask you to confirm or update your address, phone number, and email.

You'll then choose whether to renew as a standard Minnesota license or upgrade to REAL ID. If you choose REAL ID, you won't need to visit an office—the system will verify your identity using information already on file with the state. Pay the renewal fee using a debit or credit card. Standard renewal costs $24.50; REAL ID renewal costs $24.50 plus a $10 REAL ID fee. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

If you can't remember your online account password or haven't created an account yet, you can set one up on the same website. You'll need your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to verify your identity.

Mail renewal: when you can skip the office

Mail renewal is available only if your current license is still valid (not expired), you don't need to change your photo, and you're not explore for REAL ID for the first time. read the renewal form from the Secretary of State website or request one by phone at 651-296-6911. Fill it out completely and include a check or money order for $24.50 payable to the State of Minnesota.

Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the office receives your envelope. You won't receive a confirmation that your renewal was received, so keep a copy of what you sent. If your license expires before you receive the new one, you can print a temporary license from the Secretary of State website to carry while you wait.

In-person renewal at a DVS office

Visit a Driver and Vehicle Services office if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need to update your photo, if you're explore for REAL ID for the first time, or if you want your new license when ready. Bring your current driver's license or ID card, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're explore for REAL ID, you'll also need to bring proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers) and proof of your address. The office will take your photo, verify your information, and issue your new license on the spot or mail it to you, depending on the office location.

DVS offices are located throughout Minnesota. You can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the Secretary of State website. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to book an appointment online. Wait times vary by location and time of day.

REAL ID versus standard license: what's the difference

A REAL ID is a federal security standard that makes your driver's license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A standard Minnesota license will no longer work for these purposes after May 7, 2025. If you travel by air or visit federal offices, you'll need either a REAL ID license, a passport, or another federal ID.

The REAL ID process process requires you to prove your identity, citizenship, and current address. You can do this online during renewal if you're upgrading from an existing valid license, or in person at a DVS office. The REAL ID endorsement appears on your license as a gold star in the upper right corner. The fee is $10 in addition to the standard renewal fee.

If you don't travel by air or visit federal buildings, a standard license is sufficient and costs less. You can renew as a standard license and upgrade to REAL ID later if your plans change.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Standard Minnesota driver's license renewal costs $24.50. REAL ID renewal costs $34.50 total ($24.50 for the license plus $10 for the REAL ID endorsement). These fees are current as of 2024 and may change; check the Secretary of State website for the most up-to-date amounts.

Online renewal accepts debit and credit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal at a DVS office accepts cash, debit, credit cards, and checks. If you're renewing by mail and your check is returned for insufficient funds, the office will contact you to arrange payment before processing your renewal.

What to do if your license has already expired

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew online or by mail using the same process as a current license holder. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DVS office. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.

While your license is expired, you cannot legally drive. If you need to drive before you can renew, you can print a temporary license from the Secretary of State website after completing the online renewal process. The temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be printed when ready after payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if I've moved to a new address?

Yes. The online renewal system will ask you to confirm or update your address. If you've moved within Minnesota, you can complete the entire renewal online. If you've moved out of state, you'll need to renew in person at a DVS office with proof of your new address.

How long does it take to receive my renewed license in the mail?

After you complete online renewal and pay the fee, your new license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the office receives your envelope. In-person renewal at a DVS office issues your license on the spot at some locations or mails it within a few days at others.

What if I need my license before the renewal arrives?

After completing online renewal, you can print a temporary license from the Secretary of State website. The temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving and identification while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail.

Do I need to renew my license in person to get REAL ID?

No. If you already have a valid Minnesota driver's license, you can upgrade to REAL ID online during renewal. The system will verify your identity using information on file with the state. You only need to visit a DVS office in person if you're explore for REAL ID for the first time and don't have a current valid license.

What happens if I let my license expire while waiting for my renewal to arrive?

If you completed online renewal and your old license expires before the new one arrives, print the temporary license from the Secretary of State website. The temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent license.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.