Minnesota Driver's License Renewal: What You Need to Know

Minnesota allows you to renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have before expiration, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most renewals take 7 to 10 business days by mail and are processed the same day if you renew online or visit an office in person.

Your Minnesota license is valid for four years from your birthday. You can renew it up to one year before the expiration date, which means you have a full window to complete the process without rushing. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at a DVS office—mail and online renewal are not available for expired licenses.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota offers three renewal methods: mail, online through the state website, and in-person at any DVS office.
  • You can renew up to one year before your license expires, but expired licenses must be renewed in person only.
  • Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days; online and in-person renewals are processed when ready or the same day.
  • The renewal fee is $24.50 for a four-year license, payable by check, money order, or credit card depending on your method.
  • You do not need to pass a vision or written test to renew by mail or online unless your license has been expired for more than five years.

Renewing Online Through the Minnesota DVS Website

Online renewal is the fastest option and requires no mailing or office visit. Go to the Minnesota Secretary of State's Driver and Vehicle Services website and select the renewal option. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity.

Online renewal is available only if your license is still valid or expired for fewer than five years. You cannot change your address, name, or other personal information online—those changes require an in-person visit. The fee is $24.50, paid by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal uses the same form and fee as online renewal but takes longer. Request the renewal form from the Minnesota Secretary of State or read it from the DVS website. Complete the form, include a check or money order for $24.50, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash.

Mail renewal is available only for valid licenses or licenses expired fewer than five years. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the DVS office receives your envelope. Send your renewal at least two weeks before your license expires to avoid running out of time. If you need to change your address, name, or other information, you must renew in person instead.

Renewing In Person at a DVS Office

Visit any Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office to renew in person. You can renew the same day, and your temporary license is issued when ready. Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

In-person renewal is required if your license has expired for more than five years, if you need to change your name or address, or if you want to update your photo. You will take a new photograph and pass a vision screening. The fee is $24.50, paid by cash, check, money order, or card. Your permanent license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

DVS offices are located in most Minnesota counties. Hours vary by location, and some offices require appointments. Check the Minnesota Secretary of State website for the office nearest you and its hours before you visit.

Documents and Fees You Will Need

The renewal fee is $24.50 for a four-year license. This fee is the same regardless of your renewal method. If you renew by mail or online, you pay by check, money order, or card. If you renew in person, you can also pay with cash.

For mail or online renewal, you need only your current license number and personal information. For in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license and one document proving your address dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, insurance policy, or bank statement. A post office mail forwarding notice is not accepted as proof of address.

If you are renewing after your license has expired for more than five years, you must renew in person and will be required to pass a vision test. You do not need to retake the written driving test unless your license has been expired for more than 10 years.

What Happens If Your License Expires Before You Renew

An expired Minnesota driver's license cannot be used to drive. If your license expires before your renewal is processed, you must renew in person at a DVS office. You cannot use mail or online renewal for an expired license.

When you renew in person after expiration, bring your expired license, proof of address, and payment. You will receive a temporary license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must pass a vision test. If it has been expired for more than 10 years, you must also pass the written driving test.

Address Changes and Other Updates

If you have moved, you must update your address during renewal. Mail and online renewal do not allow address changes—you must renew in person at a DVS office. Bring your current license and a document proving your new address dated within the last 60 days.

Name changes also require in-person renewal. Bring your current license and a certified copy of the document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DVS office will verify the document and issue your new license with your updated name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Minnesota license if I live out of state?

Yes. Mail renewal is your best option if you live outside Minnesota. Complete the renewal form, include payment, and mail it to the Minnesota Secretary of State. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file. If you need to change your address, you must renew in person or contact a DVS office by phone to request a form update before mailing.

What if my license was lost or stolen?

A lost or stolen license cannot be renewed—you must request a replacement. Contact a Minnesota DVS office in person or by phone. You will need to pay a replacement fee and provide proof of identity and address. A replacement license is not the same as a renewal and may have different requirements depending on how long your license has been missing.

Do I need a new photo when I renew by mail or online?

No. Mail and online renewal use your existing photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DVS office. In-person renewal includes a new photograph as part of the process.

How long does my temporary license last if I renew in person?

Your temporary license is valid for 30 days from the date you renew in person. Your permanent license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If your permanent license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Minnesota Secretary of State to check the status.

What if I miss my renewal important date?

If your license expires, you cannot drive legally. You must renew in person at a DVS office as soon as possible. Bring your expired license, proof of address, and payment. You will receive a temporary license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must pass a vision test.