A new credential process is how you get your first Minnesota driver's license or ID card from the state

In Minnesota, a new credential process is the formal process you use when you have never held a Minnesota driver's license or ID card before. You fill out a form, bring specific documents to prove who you are and where you live, pass a knowledge test and vision screening, and pay a fee. The state then issues you a new credential — either a driver's license if you want to drive, or a state ID card if you only need identification.

This is different from renewing a license you already have or upgrading from one type of license to another. If you are moving to Minnesota from another state, or if you are getting your first license ever, you will file a new credential process, not a renewal.

Minnesota processes new credential applications at Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) offices. You cannot mail in a new credential process — you must appear in person at a DVS office with your documents and pass the required tests.

Key Takeaways

  • A new credential process is required when you have never held a Minnesota driver's license or ID card, even if you held one in another state.
  • You must visit a DVS office in person, bring proof of identity and Minnesota residency, and pass a knowledge test and vision screening.
  • The documents you need depend on whether you are explore for a driver's license or a state ID card, and whether you are a U.S. citizen or not.
  • Processing takes about two weeks from the date you submit your process at the DVS office.
  • You will pay a fee that varies based on the type of credential and how long you want it to be valid.

Documents You Need for a New Credential process

Minnesota requires you to bring three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot use the same document twice — for example, you cannot use a utility bill for both residency and identity.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid passport (U.S. or foreign), a certified birth certificate, a foreign national ID, a military ID, or a tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of two documents from a secondary list, such as a high school diploma, college transcript, or marriage certificate.

For proof of Minnesota residency, bring a document dated within the last 30 days showing your name and current Minnesota address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax statement, or a letter from a government agency. A bank statement or credit card statement will also work.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to provide documentation of that status.

What Happens at the DVS Office During Your Visit

When you arrive at the DVS office with your documents, a staff member will review them to make sure they meet Minnesota's requirements. If any document is missing or does not match the criteria, they will tell you what you need to bring back. You cannot proceed without all required documents.

Once your documents are approved, you will take a knowledge test on traffic laws and road signs. The test is computer-based and has 40 questions. You must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back later.

You will also have your vision screened. The DVS staff will use a machine to check your eyesight. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the screening. If your vision does not meet Minnesota's standard, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, and this will be noted on your license.

After you pass the tests, you will have your photo taken for the license. You will then pay the fee and receive a receipt. Your physical credential will arrive by mail within about two weeks.

Fees and Credential Validity Periods

The fee for a new driver's license or ID card depends on how long you want the credential to be valid. Minnesota offers two options: a four-year credential or an eight-year credential. The eight-year option costs more but is cheaper per year.

As of 2024, a four-year driver's license costs around $25, and an eight-year driver's license costs around $40. A four-year state ID card costs around $16.50, and an eight-year state ID card costs around $27. These fees can change, so confirm the current amount when you visit the DVS office or check the Minnesota DVS website.

If you are under 21, your license will expire on your 21st birthday, regardless of which validity period you choose. This is a state law requirement.

Different Rules for Non-U.S. Citizens

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a Minnesota driver's license or ID card, but you will need additional documents. You must bring proof of your legal presence in the United States, such as a valid visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or permanent resident card (green card).

Your credential will be valid only as long as your legal status in the United States is valid. For example, if your visa expires in two years, your license will also expire in two years, even if you chose the eight-year option. When your legal status expires, your license expires automatically.

If you are an undocumented immigrant, Minnesota does not issue a standard driver's license. However, Minnesota does offer a Minnesota ID card for people without proof of legal presence. This card cannot be used to drive, but it can be used for identification purposes. The process and documents required are different from a standard new credential process.

What to Do If You Fail the Knowledge Test

If you do not pass the knowledge test on your first try, you can retake it when ready at the same DVS office. You do not need to bring your documents again or pay another fee. You straightforward take the test again.

If you fail a second time, you will need to leave the DVS office and come back another day. Most DVS offices recommend studying the Minnesota Driver's Manual before your next attempt. The manual is free and available on the Minnesota DVS website in English and several other languages.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the knowledge test, but each attempt after the second one on the same day may require you to pay a retest fee. Check with your local DVS office about their specific retest policy.

How Long the Process Takes

The in-office portion of a new credential process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the DVS office is. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Scheduling an appointment is faster and means less waiting time.

After you leave the DVS office, your credential is mailed to the address you provided. Standard mail delivery takes about two weeks. If you need your credential sooner, some DVS offices offer expedited mail for an additional fee, which can reduce delivery time to five to seven business days.

While you wait for your physical credential to arrive, you will receive a receipt at the DVS office. This receipt is not a valid license or ID card, but it shows that you have applied. If you are stopped by law enforcement before your credential arrives, show them the receipt and your process documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a new credential process if I moved to Minnesota from another state?

Yes. If you held a driver's license in another state, you still file a new credential process in Minnesota. You do not need to bring your old license, but you will need to pass the knowledge test and vision screening. Some states have reciprocal agreements with Minnesota that waive the knowledge test, but you will still need to take the vision screening and provide Minnesota residency documents.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get a Minnesota driver's license or ID card. Bring documentation showing you do not have a Social Security number, such as a letter from the Social Security Administration or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will need to provide an alternative form of identification instead.

Do I have to take the knowledge test if I already have a driver's license from another country?

Yes. Minnesota requires all new drivers to pass the knowledge test, regardless of whether you have a valid license from another country. However, if you are a temporary resident with a valid foreign license, you may be able to drive on that license for a limited time while you arrange to get a Minnesota license. Check the Minnesota DVS website for current rules on foreign license validity.

What happens if I fail the vision screening?

If your vision does not meet Minnesota's standard without correction, you will be required to wear glasses or contacts while driving. This restriction will be printed on your license. If your vision cannot be corrected to meet the standard, you may not be issued a driver's license, though you may still be issued a state ID card for identification purposes.

Can someone else pick up my credential when it arrives?

No. Your credential is mailed directly to the address you provided at the DVS office. Only you can use it. If you move before it arrives, contact the DVS office when ready to update your mailing address so it is not sent to your old home.