What You Need to Renew in Minnesota
Minnesota allows you to renew your driver's license in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office, by mail, or online through the state's REAL ID-compliant renewal system. The method you use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time remains before expiration, and whether you need to update your address or other information.
If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew by mail or online without visiting an office. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. Online renewal is the fastest option and costs less than in-person renewal, but it is available only if you have a valid Minnesota ID number, a Social Security number on file with the state, and a current out-of-state or expired Minnesota license.
Minnesota licenses expire on your birthday, four years after issue for most drivers. Renewal notices are mailed about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to begin the process.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal costs $16.50 and takes about 10 business days; in-person renewal costs $24.50 and you receive your license the same day.
- Mail renewal is available only if your license expired fewer than five years ago and you do not need to update your address or photograph.
- You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need a new photograph, or if you are changing your address.
- Minnesota does not require a vision test for renewal unless you are over 74 years old or your license was suspended or revoked.
Online Renewal: Fastest and Least Expensive
Online renewal through the Minnesota Secretary of State website is available 24 hours a day and requires no appointment. You will need your current or expired Minnesota driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The fee is $16.50.
During online renewal, you confirm your current address, emergency contact information, and organ donor status. You cannot change your name, address, or photograph online. If any of this information is incorrect, you must renew in person instead. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within 10 business days.
Online renewal is not available if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you have an out-of-state license, or if your Minnesota ID number is not in the state system. If you are unsure whether you are may be able to access, call the DVS customer service line at 651-297-2126 before attempting to renew online.
In-Person Renewal at a DVS Office
You can renew in person at any of Minnesota's 90+ Driver and Vehicle Services offices without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photograph, if you are changing your name or address, or if you are over 74 years old (vision test required).
Bring your current or expired Minnesota driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 30 days). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The fee is $24.50, payable by cash, check, or card.
Your new license is issued the same day. If you need a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings as of May 7, 2025), the fee is $32.50 and you must provide proof of citizenship or legal residency in addition to the documents listed above.
Mail Renewal: Available Only for Recent Expiration
Mail renewal is available only if your license expired fewer than five years ago and you do not need to change your photograph, name, or address. You cannot renew by mail if you are over 74 years old or if your license was suspended or revoked.
To renew by mail, complete the renewal notice sent by the state or read the renewal form from the Secretary of State website. Include your current or expired license, a check or money order for $16.50 (made payable to "State of Minnesota"), and mail both to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 10 to 15 business days after the DVS office receives your materials.
Mail renewal is slower and offers no advantage over online renewal in cost or time. Online renewal is recommended unless you do not have internet access or a valid payment card.
Documents and Fees at a Glance
| Renewal Method | Fee | Processing Time | Documents Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | $16.50 | 10 business days | Current or expired license; SSN on file |
| In-Person | $24.50 (standard) or $32.50 (REAL ID) | Same day | Current or expired license; proof of SSN; proof of address; proof of citizenship (REAL ID only) |
| $16.50 | 10–15 business days | Current or expired license; renewal form |
Special Situations: Over 74, Suspended, or Name Change
If you are 74 years old or older, you must renew in person and pass a vision test at the DVS office. There is no additional fee for the vision test. If you fail the test, the examiner will discuss your options, which may include restrictions on your license (such as corrective lenses required) or denial of renewal. You have the right to request a retest at a later date.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the DVS office or check your status online through the Secretary of State website. If you are unsure of your status, call 651-297-2126.
If you are changing your name, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or name change petition). The fee remains $24.50 unless you are also requesting a REAL ID.
What Happens If Your License Expires
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Minnesota, even if you have applied for renewal. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can be cited. However, if you have applied for renewal online or by mail and can show proof of the process, officers may exercise discretion.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person and cannot use the online or mail process. There is no additional penalty fee, but the in-person requirement means you cannot avoid a visit to a DVS office.
If you lose your license before it expires, you can request a replacement at any DVS office for $17.50. A replacement is not the same as a renewal; it extends your current expiration date by four years from the date of replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Minnesota license if I now live out of state?
No. Minnesota requires you to be a resident to hold a Minnesota driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you must obtain a license from your new state of residence. You can surrender your Minnesota license by mail or in person at any DVS office.
Do I need a new photograph when I renew?
Not for online or mail renewal. A new photograph is taken only during in-person renewal. If you want a new photograph but your license is not yet expired, you can request one at a DVS office for $17.50.
What if I never received my renewal notice in the mail?
The renewal notice is a convenience but not required to renew. You can renew online, by mail, or in person without it. If you want to verify your expiration date, check the Secretary of State website or call 651-297-2126.
How long does it take to receive a license renewed online?
Online-renewed licenses are mailed within 10 business days of approval. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service, but most arrive within two weeks. If your license does not arrive within three weeks, contact the DVS office.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?
Yes. Traffic tickets and fines do not prevent license renewal in Minnesota. However, if a ticket results in a suspension or revocation, you cannot renew until that suspension is lifted.