Minnesota testing locations and how to find yours

In Minnesota, you take the written knowledge test at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. These are physical locations run by the state, not third-party testing centers. You cannot take the test online or by mail — you must show up in person with your documents and take it on a computer terminal at the office.

Minnesota has DVS offices in most counties. The main office is in St. Paul, but there are branch locations throughout the state in cities like Minneapolis, Rochester, Duluth, Mankato, and Moorhead. You choose which location works for you when you schedule your test appointment.

You do not need to live in the county where you test. You can drive to any DVS office in the state that has an available appointment time that fits your schedule.

Key Takeaways

  • All Minnesota written knowledge tests are given at DVS offices during business hours, and you must schedule an appointment in advance.
  • You can find your nearest DVS office and check available appointment times on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.
  • Bring your current ID, Social Security number, and proof of residency to your test appointment.
  • The test is administered on a computer at the office, and you receive your score when ready after finishing.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least one day before scheduling your next attempt.

How to find and book a DVS office appointment

Go to the Minnesota Secretary of State website and use the DVS office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code, and the system shows all nearby offices with their addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Each office listing also shows whether appointments are currently available.

Click on the office you want to visit. You will see a calendar of available appointment dates and times. Select a date and time that works for you. You will need to provide your name, phone number, and email address to complete the booking. Minnesota sends you a confirmation email with your appointment details.

If no appointments are available at your preferred location, check offices in neighboring cities or counties. Appointment availability changes daily as people cancel or complete their tests. If you cannot find an opening, try checking again the next day or call the office directly to ask about cancellations.

What to bring to your test appointment

Bring your current valid ID — this can be a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. You also need your Social Security number (have it memorized or written down) and proof of Minnesota residency. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and current Minnesota address.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They must be present during the test appointment. Bring the original or certified copy of your birth certificate as well.

Do not bring your phone, smartwatch, or any other electronic device into the testing room. The DVS office provides a find locker or will hold your belongings while you test. Bring only what you need: your ID, residency proof, and any glasses or contacts you normally wear.

DVS office hours and what to expect on test day

Most DVS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some locations offering limited Saturday hours. A few offices close for lunch. Check your specific office's hours on the Secretary of State website before you go.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Check in at the front desk and give your name. A staff member will verify your documents, confirm your identity, and walk you to the testing computer. The test takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on how quickly you answer the questions. You sit alone at a computer terminal in a quiet room.

When you finish, the computer scores your test when ready. You see your score on the screen before you leave. If you pass (70 percent or higher), you receive a receipt. If you fail, the staff member tells you your score and explains that you can retake the test after waiting at least one day.

Retesting and scheduling your next attempt

If you do not pass on your first try, you must wait at least one calendar day before you can take the test again. You cannot retake it the same day. Schedule your next appointment through the same online system or by calling the DVS office directly.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test in Minnesota, but each attempt requires a new appointment and may have a fee. Check the current test fee on the Secretary of State website, as fees can change.

Between attempts, review the Minnesota Driver's Manual and focus on the questions you missed. Many people find it helpful to take practice tests online or use study apps to identify weak areas before their next appointment.

Special circumstances and accommodations

If you need testing accommodations because of a disability, contact the DVS office at least two weeks before your scheduled appointment. Minnesota provides extended time, large-print tests, audio versions of the test, and other supports. Call the office directly or note your accommodation request when you book your appointment online.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can bring an interpreter to your appointment. If you are blind or have low vision, you can use a screen reader or have the test read aloud to you. The DVS office works with you to set up whatever accommodation you need.

If you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, cancel it online or call the office as soon as you know. Canceling in advance opens that time slot for someone else and prevents a no-show on your record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test at a different DVS office than where I plan to get my license?

Yes. You can take your written test at any DVS office in Minnesota. Your test results are recorded in the state system, so any office can see that you passed when you come back to get your license photo taken and complete your road test.

What happens if I fail the test — do I have to pay again?

Yes, each test attempt has a fee. The fee amount varies and is set by the state. Check the Secretary of State website for the current cost before your appointment. Some offices accept cash, card, or check; confirm payment methods when you book.

Do I need to bring the Minnesota Driver's Manual to my test?

No. You cannot bring study materials into the testing room. The test is based on information in the manual, so study it beforehand. The DVS office provides the manual free online and in print at every office location.

How long does it take to get my test results?

You get your score when ready on the computer screen when you finish the test. If you pass, you walk out with a receipt that day. There is no waiting period for results.

What if I cannot find an appointment near me?

Check offices in neighboring counties or cities — you can test anywhere in Minnesota. If all nearby locations are booked, call the office directly and ask about cancellations, or check the online system again the next day. Appointments open up regularly as people cancel.