Minnesota DMV Guide: Permit, License, and Road Test
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Getting your instruction permit in Minnesota follows a clear sequence once you know what Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) expects. This guide walks through eligibility, the documents you need, the knowledge test, and what happens after you pass, so you can arrive prepared and move through the process smoothly.
Requirements, fees, and accepted documents can change, so treat this as a general roadmap and confirm the current details with DVS or your local exam station before you go. Arriving with the right documents the first time is the easiest way to keep the process quick and avoid a return trip.
15
Permit age
40
Test questions
32 (80%)
To pass
$29.50
Permit fee
Step by step: getting your Minnesota permit
Step 1: Confirm your age and driver-education status
In Minnesota you can generally apply for an instruction permit at age 15. The permit is the first stage of the state's graduated driver licensing system. Younger applicants typically must be enrolled in or have completed an approved driver-education program, so check the requirement that applies to your age before you schedule a test.
Step 2: Gather your required documents
Bring documents that prove your identity, your Social Security number, and Minnesota residency. Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to provide consent.
- Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of your Social Security number
- Proof of Minnesota residency
- Parent or guardian consent if you are under 18
Step 3: Complete driver education as required
Minnesota places strong emphasis on driver education for new drivers. Depending on your age, you may need to complete classroom instruction, or be enrolled in it, before you can take the knowledge test. Keep your enrollment or completion records on hand for your DVS visit.
Step 4: Pass the knowledge test
Take the 40-question written knowledge test and score at least 80 percent, which means 32 correct answers. Because the test is long, practicing beforehand builds the stamina and familiarity that help you stay focused and pass on your first attempt.
Step 5: Pass the vision screening and pay the fee
You will complete a vision screening and pay the permit fee. Once you meet the requirements, DVS issues your instruction permit, which lets you begin supervised practice driving toward your provisional license.
After you pass the knowledge test
With a Minnesota instruction permit you may drive only while supervised by a qualified licensed adult. The graduated system generally includes a holding period and a substantial number of supervised practice hours, including night driving, before you can take the road test. Logging those hours and practicing in a range of conditions, including winter roads, prepares you for both the skills exam and real driving.
Tips for Minnesota new drivers
Build experience step by step: begin in quiet areas, then progress to busier roads and eventually highway driving. Make a point of practicing in snow and on ice with your supervising adult so winter conditions are not your first solo surprise. Always carry your permit, keep a licensed adult beside you, and follow any passenger and nighttime limits that apply to permit holders.
Minnesota permit and test fees
$29.50
Class D instruction permit, valid for 2 years. Renewal of the instruction permit is $24.50.
Retest: First two knowledge test attempts carry no extra charge; the third and each subsequent knowledge test after failing the first two costs $10.
Verified on the DPS DVS fee page: Class D Instruction Permit (valid for 2 years) $29.50, renewal $24.50. A Class A, B or C instruction permit is $26.75 and is available at driver exam stations only. Third and subsequent skills (road) tests after failing the first two cost $20.
Minnesota permit restrictions and supervised driving
While you hold the permit
Supervised practice: 50 hours of supervised driving including 15 hours at night (reduced to 40 hours with 15 at night if a parent or guardian completes the supplemental parent awareness class); applies to drivers under 18
Hold period: Instruction permit held at least 6 months before a provisional license for applicants under 18
- Must be accompanied by a certified driver education instructor, a parent or guardian, or a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat
- All occupants must wear seat belts
- Permit holder must have no alcohol or controlled substance violations
After you upgrade (provisional/intermediate)
- For the first 6 months, no more than one passenger under age 20 unless a parent or guardian is present (immediate family excepted)
- For the second 6 months, no more than three passengers under age 20 unless a parent or guardian is present (immediate family excepted)
- For the first 6 months, no driving between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. except travel between home and work, or home and a school event with no school transportation provided
Restriction details change. Confirm current rules with the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services.
Minnesota road test requirements
The road test evaluates the applicant's ability to operate the vehicle safely and follow Minnesota traffic laws under the examiner's observation.
What to bring
- Valid instruction permit
- Completed supervised driving log signed by a parent or guardian
- Proof of driver education completion
Vehicle requirements
- A vehicle that is properly registered and insured and in safe operating condition
Minnesota driver handbook summary
Minnesota's graduated system moves new drivers under 18 through an instruction permit, a provisional license, and finally full licensure. Teens must log supervised practice hours, including night driving, and the requirement drops when a parent attends a short awareness class. The provisional license phases in passenger limits and an overnight curfew that loosen after the first six months.
Practice for the Minnesota test
The fastest way to pass is to rehearse real test format. Our Minnesota questions are balanced across the categories the DVS tests.
Find a DVS office in Minnesota
Most permits are issued in person. Find your nearest DVS location before you go, and check whether you need an appointment.
Map results come from Google and may include third-party services. Always confirm the office location, hours, and whether an appointment is required on the official DVS website before visiting.
Official Minnesota sources
Minnesota licensing FAQ
How much does the Minnesota permit cost?
$29.50. Class D instruction permit, valid for 2 years. Renewal of the instruction permit is $24.50. Verified on the DPS DVS fee page: Class D Instruction Permit (valid for 2 years) $29.50, renewal $24.50. A Class A, B or C instruction permit is $26.75 and is available at driver exam stations only. Third and subsequent skills (road) tests after failing the first two cost $20. See the full Minnesota fee breakdown and official source on our permit cost page.
What score do I need to pass the Minnesota written test?
The Minnesota knowledge test has 40 questions and you must answer 32 correctly (80%) to pass.
How many supervised driving hours does Minnesota require?
50 hours of supervised driving including 15 hours at night (reduced to 40 hours with 15 at night if a parent or guardian completes the supplemental parent awareness class); applies to drivers under 18. Confirm the current requirement and any logging rules with the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services.
How old do I have to be for a Minnesota instruction permit?
Generally 15. Confirm the current age and driver-education requirements with Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services.
What documents do I need to apply?
Proof of identity, your Social Security number, proof of Minnesota residency, and parental consent if you are under 18.
Do I have to take a test for the permit?
Yes. You take a 40-question written knowledge test and a vision screening to qualify for the permit.
Is there a fee for the Minnesota permit?
Yes, a permit fee applies. Check the current amount with DVS or your local exam station before your visit.