What you need to get a Minnesota learner's permit

A Minnesota learner's permit lets you drive under supervision before you take your road test. To get one, you must be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office, and show proof of identity and Minnesota residency. You'll also need a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Minnesota Driver's Manual, which DVS publishes free online. The test has 40 questions, and you need to answer at least 32 correctly to pass. Most people take the test on the same day they explore.

Once you pass, you'll receive your permit when ready. It's valid for one year from the date of issue. During that year, you must follow learner's permit restrictions: you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and pass a 40-question written test at a DVS office to receive a learner's permit.
  • Bring a valid photo ID, proof of Minnesota residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN to your appointment.
  • The Minnesota Driver's Manual, available free online from DVS, covers all topics on the written test.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for one year and requires a licensed adult 21 or older to be in the front seat whenever you drive.

Documents to bring to the DVS office

You need to bring several documents when you go to explore. A valid photo ID is required—this can be a passport, state ID, or tribal ID. If you don't have a photo ID yet, you can bring two forms of non-photo ID instead, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.

You also need proof that you live in Minnesota. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with a parent or guardian, their utility bill or lease is acceptable as long as you can show your connection to that address.

Bring your Social Security number or ITIN. If you don't have either, you can still get a learner's permit, but you'll need to fill out an additional form at the DVS office. The process takes a bit longer, but you won't be turned away.

How to schedule your appointment and take the test

You can schedule a DVS appointment online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website or by calling your local DVS office. Many offices accept walk-ins, but appointment slots often fill up, especially in busy areas. Scheduling ahead saves time and guarantees you a spot.

When you arrive, tell the staff you want to take the learner's permit test. They'll give you the written exam on a computer or on paper, depending on the office. You have 30 minutes to complete the 40 questions. The test is scored when ready, and if you pass, you move to the next step.

If you don't pass on your first try, you can retake the test. Most offices let you schedule another appointment right away, though some require you to wait a day or two. There's no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt costs the same fee.

The cost and how long your permit lasts

The fee for a learner's permit varies slightly by office but is typically around $20 to $25. Some DVS offices accept cash, check, or card; others may have different payment methods. Call ahead if you want to confirm what your local office accepts.

Your learner's permit is valid for one year from the date you receive it. You don't need to renew it during that year. However, if your permit expires before you pass your road test and get your full license, you'll need to explore for a new one and pay the fee again.

If you turn 18 before your permit expires, the permit remains valid until its expiration date. You can take your road test at any point during the permit's validity—you don't have to wait until it's about to expire.

Restrictions while driving with a learner's permit

With a learner's permit, you cannot drive alone. A licensed driver who is 21 years old or older must be in the front passenger seat at all times. This person should be alert and able to help if needed. The supervising driver is responsible for the vehicle, so choose someone you trust and who has a valid license.

You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. This restriction applies to all learner's permit holders, regardless of age. If you need to drive during these hours for work or school, you'll need to wait until you have your full license.

There are no restrictions on passengers in the back seat, and you can drive on highways and interstates. However, your supervising driver should be comfortable with the roads you're using. It's a good idea to practice on quieter streets first before moving to busier roads or highways.

What happens after you pass the written test

Once you have your learner's permit, you can begin practicing for your road test. Minnesota requires you to hold the permit for at least 30 days before you can take the road test. This waiting period gives you time to gain experience and confidence behind the wheel.

During these 30 days, practice in different conditions: daytime and evening driving, residential streets and busier roads, and if possible, highway driving. The more varied your practice, the better prepared you'll be for the road test. Your supervising driver can give you feedback and help you improve.

After 30 days, you can schedule your road test through the same DVS office. The road test takes about 30 minutes and includes driving on different types of roads and demonstrating skills like parking, turning, and stopping. You'll be tested on your ability to follow traffic laws and drive safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I'm homeschooled?

Yes. Homeschooled students follow the same requirements as other students: you must be at least 15 years old, pass the written test, and provide proof of identity and residency. There are no special rules for homeschooled drivers.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it as soon as your local DVS office has an available appointment. There's no waiting period between attempts, and you can take the test as many times as you need. Each attempt costs the same fee.

Do I need to take a driver's education course to get a learner's permit?

No. A driver's education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Minnesota. However, completing one before your road test may help you pass and could lower your insurance costs once you have your license.

Can someone with a learner's permit from another state use it in Minnesota?

No. If you move to Minnesota, you need to get a Minnesota learner's permit. You cannot use a permit from another state. Contact your local DVS office to begin the process.

What if I lose my learner's permit?

Contact your local DVS office to request a replacement. You'll need to pay a replacement fee, which is typically lower than the original permit fee. Bring the same documents you brought for your original process.