Driver’s Licenses and State IDs For U.S. Legal Residents and Green Card Holders in Minnesota

How do I apply for a driver’s license as a U.S. legal resident or green card holder in Minnesota?

To apply for a driver’s license as a U.S. legal resident or green card holder in Minnesota, you must first gather the necessary documents. You will need to provide proof of identity and U.S. immigration status, such as an unexpired foreign passport or U.S. Permanent Resident Card (green card). You will also need to provide proof of Minnesota residence, such as a utility bill, rental agreement or other form of mail sent to your address.

Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you can go to a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office to apply for your driver’s license. You will need to fill out an application, present your documents and pass written and practical tests. You may also be required to provide a Social Security number and have your photo taken for the license. After you have passed all tests and paid the necessary fees, you will receive your license.

What documents do I need to provide as proof of identity and legal residency when applying for a driver’s license in Minnesota?

When applying for a driver’s license in Minnesota, you must provide proof of identity and legal U.S. residency with documents such as a valid U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), employment authorization card, or foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94 form. You must also provide two additional documents that prove your name and date of birth such as a social security card, school ID, health insurance card, or marriage license.

Are there any age restrictions or requirements for obtaining a driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota?

Yes, there are age restrictions and requirements for obtaining a driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota. To obtain a driver’s license, you must be at least 16 years old and must have completed the required classroom and behind-the-wheel driver’s education courses. For a state ID, you must be at least 16 years old and have valid proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of residency. Additionally, applicants under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian present to sign the application.

Can I use my foreign driver’s license to drive , or do I need to apply for a new one in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, you must have a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle, and it must be issued by the state. If you are a resident of Minnesota, you must apply for a Minnesota driver’s license in order to legally drive in the state.

What is the process for renewing my driver’s license or state ID, and how often do I need to renew it in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, you can renew your driver’s license or state ID up to one year prior to its expiration date. It is recommended that you renew your driver’s license or state ID every four years. To renew, you will need to bring proof of identity, such as your current driver’s license, a valid passport or other government-issued photo ID, and proof of your Social Security number. You will also need to bring any required documents for address, name and Social Security number changes or corrections. You can renew in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office or by mail using the renewal form and the documents listed above.

Are there any additional requirements, such as written or driving exams, when applying for a driver’s license as a legal resident or green card holder in Minnesota?

Yes, there are additional requirements when applying for a driver’s license as a legal resident or green card holder in Minnesota. In addition to providing proof of identity, legal status, and residency, applicants must also take and pass the written and driving exams before they can obtain their license.

What is the duration of validity for a state-issued driver’s license or ID card, and how early can I renew it in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, a valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card is valid for four years. You can renew it up to one year before the expiration date.

Do I need to provide proof of insurance when applying for or renewing my driver’s license in Minnesota?

Yes. Minnesota law requires drivers to provide proof of insurance when applying for or renewing a driver’s license. Proof of insurance includes a copy of your current insurance policy or an insurance binder.

What should I do if I change my address or personal information while holding a driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota?

If you change your address or personal information while holding a driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota, you must update your information with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DPS-DVS). You can do this by visiting the online license and ID updating service at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/online-services/Pages/drivers-license-id-information-update.aspx. You can also update your information in person at a DVS office or by mailing in an application form with the appropriate fee.

Can I use my state-issued driver’s license or ID card as proof of identity for federal purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight in Minnesota?

Yes, as long as your Minnesota driver’s license or ID card complies with REAL ID standards. If your license or ID does not bear a star in the upper right corner, you will need to present an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, for federal purposes, including boarding a domestic flight.

Are there different types of driver’s licenses or IDs available, and what are their purposes and eligibility requirements in Minnesota?

Yes, there are different types of driver’s licenses and IDs available in Minnesota. The type of license or ID and eligibility requirements vary based on the purpose of the license or ID.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) offers four types of driver’s licenses:

1. Standard Driver’s License: This license is used for operating a motor vehicle and is required by all drivers in Minnesota. It is valid for four years and requires applicants to pass a written and road test.

2. Real ID Driver’s License or ID Card: This license/ID complies with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. It can be used as a form of identification for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities, military bases, and nuclear power plants. It is valid for eight years and requires applicants to provide proof of identity and residence in Minnesota, as well as pass a written and road test.

3. Enhanced Driver’s License or ID Card: This license/ID complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and is accepted by customs when traveling between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It is valid for eight years and requires applicants to provide proof of identity and residence in Minnesota, as well as pass a written and road test.

4. Provisional Driver’s License: This license is only available to 16- and 17-year-olds who have successfully completed a driver’s education course. It is valid for two years but can be renewed when the driver turns 18 years old. It requires applicants to pass a written test, road test, and have 30 hours of supervised driving experience.

In addition, Minnesota also offers an Enhanced Identification Card (EID). This card is a valid form of government-issued photo identification that can be used as an alternative to a driver’s license or passport for domestic air travel. It is valid for eight years and requires applicants to provide proof of identity and residence in Minnesota, as well as pass a written test.

Can I apply for a driver’s license or ID card on behalf of a minor child who is a U.S. legal resident or green card holder in Minnesota?

No. In Minnesota, a parent or guardian must accompany the minor when applying for a driver’s license or identification card. Minors must also bring parental consent and proof of their legal presence in the U.S. such as a birth certificate, passport or resident alien card.

What is the process for replacing a lost or stolen driver’s license or state ID card in Minnesota?

1. Visit your local Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services (DVS) office. You can find the closest one to you by visiting the DVS website at http://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/.

2. Submit the required documents to the DVS office. You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate, proof of your Social Security Number (SSN), and two proofs of Minnesota residency, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

3. Pay the applicable fee. The fee for a duplicate driver’s license or state ID card in Minnesota is $12.

4. Receive your duplicate card. Your new card will be sent to you in the mail within 7-10 days.

Can I use my driver’s license or state ID as proof of legal residency for employment or other purposes in Minnesota?

Yes. You can use your driver’s license or state ID as proof of legal residency for employment or other purposes in Minnesota. To do so, you must present a valid, unexpired driver’s license or state-issued identification card that meets the Minnesota Real ID requirements. Please note that a driver’s license from another state is not accepted as proof of legal residency.

Is there a fee associated with applying for or renewing a driver’s license or state ID card, and what payment methods are accepted in Minnesota?



Yes, there is a fee associated with applying for or renewing a driver’s license or state ID card in Minnesota. The fee for an original or renewal driver’s license is $25. The fee for an original or renewal state ID card is $19.50. Payment methods accepted in Minnesota include cash, check, and credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover).

Are there any special provisions or accommodations for individuals with disabilities when obtaining a driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota?

Yes, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers special accommodations for individuals with disabilities when obtaining a driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota. Individuals can request an accessible driver’s license or ID card by submitting the appropriate form to the DVS office. Accommodations may include providing assistance with the application process, providing an alternate location for the test, and providing an interpreter for individuals with language barriers.

Can I obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, and what are the benefits of having one in Minnesota?

Yes, you can obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID in Minnesota. The benefits of having a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID are that it will meet federal requirements for boarding domestic flights, gaining access to federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants. Additionally, it will provide additional security features that make it more difficult to forge or counterfeit.

Is there an option to schedule appointments for driver’s license or ID card services, and how can I do so in Minnesota?

Yes, you can schedule an appointment for driver’s license or ID card services in Minnesota. To do so, go to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s website and select the “Driver and Vehicle Services” option. On the next page, select the “Schedule an Appointment” option. You will then be prompted to enter in your personal information and the desired service you would like to make an appointment for. After submitting your information, you will be directed to a page that will show you available appointment times.

Do I need to pass a vision test or provide a medical certification to obtain or renew my driver’s license in Minnesota?

Yes. Minnesota requires all drivers to pass a vision test and provide a Medical Certificate if they are over the age of 70. Drivers between the ages of 21 and 70 are only required to provide a Medical Certificate if they have certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy.

Where can I find the most up-to-date information on driver’s license and state ID requirements in Minnesota?

The most up-to-date information on driver’s license and state ID requirements in Minnesota can be found on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/Pages/default.aspx.