Renewing your MN driver’s license no longer involves waiting in line at a DVS office. With the state’s online driving license renewal in Minnesota, qualified drivers can now renew their license from home, with less time and unnecessary hassle. This is step by step on who qualifies, what you will need, and each step in the process to renew your MN driving license online—so you can stay legal and drive confidently.
Eligibility requirements for Minnesota online renewal
Before initiating Minnesota driving license renewal online, it is important to verify that you are eligible based on the state. Below is what you should know to determine whether or not you qualify for the online process.
Age and residency requirements
You need to be 21 years or older and a Minnesota resident. Your new Minnesota address needs to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). United States citizens and lawfully admitted aliens with proper status are only accepted. If you’ve recently changed addresses, change your address prior to starting the renewal. Name changes or address changes take a stop in person.
License status and past renewal method
Your license must be current or have been expired for less than one year. If your license has been canceled, revoked, suspended, or expired for more than one year, you cannot use the online system. Minnesota only allows every other cycle online renewal—if you renewed online or by mail previously, you must renew in person this time. You are not allowed to use the online system if you want to amend your photo, alter your name, or make any other drastic changes.
Commercial licence and first-time upgrade restrictions
Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, first-time REAL ID applicants, and permit or probationary license holders are required to renew in person. You can renew online if you possess an existing REAL ID Minnesota and your data has not been modified. In case of a photo update, name change, or other modifications, you need to go to a DVS office.
Documents needed for driving license renewal in Minnesota
Though the process is done online, you will need to have some data and documents to hand to make the renewal process easier.
Current or recently expired Minnesota License
You may use your current Minnesota driver’s license or ID card. The data should be current—no name, address, or class changes can be processed online. If your license has been out of date for over a year, you will need to renew in person.
Social Security Number
You’ll need to have the last four digits of your Social Security Number available to confirm your identity. If your SSN isn’t listed on file or isn’t correct, you’ll need to update your records in person prior to online renewal.
Proof of Minnesota residency
Your current address must be on file. If you’ve moved, update your address online before renewing. Acceptable documents for address updates include a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement in your name.
Vision screening
Minnesota requires a vision screening for each renewal. You will be prompted to affirm that you have the state’s minimum vision requirements during the online renewal process. If you have a vision or medical limitation, you might have to complete a vision form or go to a DVS office.
Payment method
You need to use a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee online. The fees differ based on the type of license and its duration.
How to renew the Minnesota driving license
After verifying eligibility and collecting your documents, follow these instructions to renew your license online:
Step 1: Access the official Minnesota DVS online renewal website
- Proceed to the Minnesota DVS renewal webpage to know the Minnesota DMV renewal requirements and begin applying.
Step 2: Log in with your credentials
- Enter your license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your SSN.
Step 3: Check eligibility
- The system will verify if you are eligible to renew CA driver’s license online. If not, it will provide you with instructions for renewing in person.
Step 4: Update your information
- Check or update your address and personal information. If you’ve moved, ensure that your new address is recorded.
Step 5: Pay the renewal fee
- Pay using a debit or credit card. The system will indicate the total before you are able to send it in.
Step 6: Receive confirmation
- You will be sent an email of confirmation when you have paid. Your new license is sent to your address of record 6-8 weeks after you have paid. You will also get a paper receipt, and this is your temporary license for 60 days.
Minnesota driving license renewal costs
| Renewal Type | Fee (Approx.) | Validity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Driver’s License | $38.25 | 4 years | Most adult licenses issued at this term |
| Duplicate License | $17 | Matches original | For lost or stolen licenses |
| Vision Certificate | Free–$25 | N/A | Cost varies by provider |
| Processing & Mailing | Included | 6–8 weeks | Card delivered by mail |
Tips for a smooth online renewal experience
To ensure the renewal of your Minnesota driver’s license is as smooth as possible, double-check that you have a reliable internet connection and a secure computer. Have your documents in front of you, such as your existing license, Social Security Number, and payment method, before beginning. If you wear corrective lenses, be sure to have your prescription available in case you will need to verify vision requirements.
Review the expiration date of your license well in advance. Minnesota lets you renew your license a year before its date, so don’t wait. Early renewal saves you from any gap in driving privileges and provides sufficient time for you to receive your new card by mail.
If the system won’t take your information, ensure that you typed your Social Security Number, birth date, and license number correctly. If your payment is rejected, what you need to do is check that your card information matches and that your card is accepted for online payments.
Frequently asked questions about Minnesota driving license renewal
- Do you have the option of renewing your license online in case it is expired?
Yes, you will be able to renew online in case your license has expired for longer than one year. In case it is more expired, you have to make a personal renewal. - What is the processing time for obtaining my new license?
Mailing of your new license will take 6-8 weeks to your address as shown in your records. After 8 weeks, if you have not received it, contact the DVS. - Is it possible to renew a commercial driver’s license (CDL) on a web-based service?
No, CDL holders have to renew face-to-face because it is a federal requirement.
The Minnesota DMV online renewal is such that it simplifies the lives of the qualifying drivers. Renewing your license without the hassle of physically going to an office is possible by getting your paperwork ready, ensuring that you meet the requirements, and following the online instructions. Be before the mode expiration periods, renew your details, and never miss an opportunity to drive in any part of Minnesota. For more information and to start your renewal, visit the official Minnesota DVS renewal page.
