What You Can and Cannot Do at the Mall of America Location

Minnesota does not operate a driver license office inside Mall of America. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety, which issues driver licenses, does not staff a branch there. If you have seen signage or heard that you can renew or obtain a license at the mall, that information is outdated or refers to a different service.

What you may have encountered is a third-party vendor that handles certain document services — such as passport photos or notarization — but these vendors cannot issue, renew, or replace a Minnesota driver license. The only way to handle a driver license transaction is through an official Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services office.

The closest official location to Mall of America (which is in Bloomington, Minnesota) is the Bloomington Driver and Vehicle Services office, located on American Boulevard. This is where you must go for any license-related transaction.

Key Takeaways

  • Mall of America does not have a Minnesota Department of Public Safety driver license office, and third-party vendors at the mall cannot issue or renew licenses.
  • The nearest official driver license office is the Bloomington Driver and Vehicle Services location on American Boulevard, about 2 miles from the mall.
  • You must visit an official Department of Public Safety office in person to renew, replace, or obtain a Minnesota driver license.
  • The Bloomington office accepts walk-ins during posted hours, but you can also schedule an appointment online through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website to reduce wait time.

Where to Go Instead: The Bloomington Driver and Vehicle Services Office

The Bloomington Driver and Vehicle Services office is the official location that serves the Mall of America area. It is located at 7900 American Boulevard, Bloomington, MN 55438. This office handles all driver license transactions: renewals, replacements, address changes, license upgrades (such as adding a motorcycle endorsement), and new license issuance for first-time applicants.

The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Hours vary by day, so check the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website or call ahead before you go. The office accepts both walk-in customers and scheduled appointments. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis, but wait times can be 30 minutes to over an hour during peak times (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays).

If you want to avoid a long wait, you can schedule an appointment online through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. Appointments are usually available within a few days and significantly reduce your time in the office.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The documents required depend on your transaction type. For a license renewal, you need your current Minnesota driver license and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your address has changed, bring the new address proof instead.

For a replacement license (if yours was lost, stolen, or damaged), bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, you will need to bring two forms of ID that together prove your identity and current address — for example, a Social Security card and a utility bill.

For a new license (first-time issuance), bring your Social Security card, proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), and proof of your current address. You will also need to pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test at the office.

For any transaction, bring your current Minnesota license if you have one. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver license fees in Minnesota vary by license type and transaction. A standard four-year renewal costs $24.50. A replacement license costs $24.50. A new license for a first-time applicant costs $24.50 for a four-year license or $48.50 for an eight-year license. These fees are current as of 2024 but may change; confirm the exact fee when you schedule your appointment or arrive at the office.

The Bloomington Driver and Vehicle Services office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks, but confirm payment methods when you call or check the website. There are no refunds if you change your mind after payment.

How Long the Process Takes

At the office, a standard renewal or replacement takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all required documents and no complications. A new license for a first-time applicant takes longer — typically 45 minutes to an hour — because you must complete the knowledge test and vision screening.

Your new license is printed on-site and issued to you before you leave. You do not have to wait for it to arrive by mail. If you need a temporary paper license while your permanent card is being printed, ask the staff; they can provide one in some cases.

Scheduling an Appointment vs. Walk-In

You can walk into the Bloomington office without an appointment, but you will be served in order after all scheduled appointments for that time slot. During busy periods, this can mean a wait of 45 minutes to over an hour. Scheduling an appointment online takes about five minutes and guarantees you a specific time slot.

Appointments are available on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. You select your transaction type, preferred date and time, and the office location (Bloomington). You will receive a confirmation number via email. Arrive 10 minutes early with all required documents.

If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online at least 24 hours in advance so the slot becomes available for someone else. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may be asked to reschedule and wait longer for the next available slot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is bringing incomplete documents. Check the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website for your specific transaction type and bring everything listed. If you are unsure whether a document counts as proof of address, call the Bloomington office before you go rather than making a wasted trip.

Another frequent error is arriving without a current address proof when your license address is outdated. Even if you are only renewing, the office will ask for proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement works; a cell phone bill usually does not.

Do not assume you can handle your transaction by mail or online. Minnesota does not offer online license renewal for most transactions, and mail-in renewal is not available. You must appear in person at an office.

If you are a new driver or have not had a Minnesota license before, do not skip the knowledge test preparation. The office will not let you test without studying first. Review the Minnesota Driver's Manual (available free on the Department of Public Safety website) before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license at any Minnesota driver license office, or do I have to go to Bloomington?

You can renew at any Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services office. The Bloomington location is closest to Mall of America, but if another office is more convenient for you, you can go there instead. All offices handle the same transactions and accept the same documents.

What if I do not have a proof of address document?

You will need to bring one to complete your transaction. If you recently moved and have not received a utility bill or lease at your new address yet, bring a letter from your landlord or a recent bank statement showing your new address. If you truly cannot obtain any proof of address, call the Bloomington office to ask what alternatives they may accept in your specific situation.

How long is a Minnesota driver license valid?

A standard driver license is valid for four years from the date of issue. If you are over 65, your license is valid for two years. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. Check the expiration date on your current license to know when you need to renew.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

You can walk in without an appointment, but you will wait longer during busy times. Scheduling an appointment online is free and takes five minutes. Appointments are usually available within a few days and reduce your wait time significantly.

What if I need my license before my appointment date?

If your license has expired or is about to expire and you cannot wait for your scheduled appointment, call the Bloomington office to ask about walk-in availability or cancellations. You can also cancel your appointment and try to walk in during a slower time, such as early morning or late afternoon on a weekday.