Ridesharing and Driver’s License Requirements in Minnesota

1. Are ride-sharing services legal in Minnesota?


Yes, ride-sharing services are legal in Minnesota. The state’s Department of Transportation has issued operating authority to Lyft, Uber, and other transportation network companies (TNCs). These companies must comply with state regulations, including insurance and background check requirements.

2. Does Minnesota allow drivers to pick up passengers with ride-sharing services?


Yes, Minnesota does allow drivers to pick up passengers with ride-sharing services.

3. Are there age requirements for ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota?


Yes. To be a ride-sharing driver in Minnesota, a person must be at least 21 years old.

4. Are there any limits on the number of passengers a ride-sharing driver can transport in Minnesota?


Yes, in Minnesota, the limit on the number of passengers a ride-sharing driver can transport is four passengers including the driver. It is recommended that the driver consult with their local municipality to see if there are any additional restrictions in place.

5. Is there a minimum vehicle age requirement for ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota?


Yes, the minimum vehicle age requirement for ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota is 5 years.

6. Is there an insurance requirement for ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota?


Yes, ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota are required to carry commercial insurance with coverage of at least $1 million per incident.

7. Are there any restrictions on the types of vehicles a ride-sharing driver can use in Minnesota?


Yes, there are restrictions on the types of vehicles that can be used by ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota. Ride-sharing drivers must use a vehicle that is:

• Year model 2006 or newer
• No more than 15-passenger seating capacity, including the driver
• A four-door sedan, SUV, minivan, truck, or other vehicle type that meets the safety requirements of Minnesota State law
• Must have a valid registration and valid insurance for operation in Minnesota

8. Are there any special licensing requirements for ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota?


Yes, ride-sharing drivers in Minnesota must obtain a valid chauffeur license from the Department of Public Safety. This includes a background check and an application fee. In addition, ride-sharing drivers must also have a TNC permit from the Department of Transportation and adequate insurance.

9. Does Minnesota require drivers to have a valid driver’s license to operate a ride-sharing vehicle?


No, Minnesota does not require drivers to have a valid driver’s license to operate a ride-sharing vehicle. Ride-sharing companies must ensure that their drivers meet their own requirements, which may include a valid driver’s license.

10. Does Minnesota have any special regulations on the hours that ride-sharing drivers can operate?


Yes, Minnesota requires ridesharing drivers to comply with local and state regulations regarding hours of operation. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety requires that drivers must be “available to provide transportation services” for at least eight hours each day, seven days a week, between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Drivers must also comply with the applicable driving regulations, including the maximum hours of service limits set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation.

11. Does Minnesota require that ride-sharing drivers keep track of their driving record?


No, Minnesota does not require ride-sharing drivers to keep track of their driving record. However, some ride-sharing companies have policies in place that require drivers to maintain a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and to abide by all applicable laws.

12. Does Minnesota require that ride-sharing drivers pass a background check?


Yes, Minnesota requires ride-sharing drivers to pass a background check. The state requires that all driver applicants must pass a criminal history check, a DMV check, and a sex offender registry check.

13. Does Minnesota require that all ride-sharing vehicles undergo periodic inspections?


Yes, in Minnesota, all ride-sharing vehicles must undergo periodic inspections. The inspections are done by certified mechanics and the drivers must submit to an annual vehicle inspection.

14. Are there any additional fees required for operating a ride-sharing vehicle in Minnesota?


Yes, there are additional fees required for operating a ride-sharing vehicle in Minnesota. These fees include an annual renewal fee of $50 and a per-trip fee of $0.15, which must be paid to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Additionally, ride-sharing services must also pay a fee of $0.20 to the Minnesota Department of Revenue for each ride taken in the state.

15. Is there a minimum fare for ride-sharing services in Minnesota?


Yes, the minimum fare for ride-sharing services in Minnesota is $2.00.

16. Does Minnesota require that ride-sharing vehicles have certain safety features installed?


No. Minnesota does not require that ride-sharing vehicles have certain safety features installed. However, many ride-sharing companies do have their own safety requirements for vehicles that drivers use to pick up passengers. For example, Uber requires all vehicles to have functional windows and doors, working brakes, and seat belts.

17. Is there a maximum fare for ride-sharing services in Minnesota?


No, there is no maximum fare for ride-sharing services in Minnesota.

18. What types of driver’s license do you need to operate a ride-sharing vehicle in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, to operate a ride-sharing vehicle, you need a valid Class D driver’s license. All drivers must be at least 21 years of age and have no more than four points on their licenses. Drivers must also pass a background check.

19. Does Minnesota have any restrictions on the number of hours that can be spent driving for a ride-sharing service each day?


No, Minnesota does not have any restrictions on the number of hours that can be spent driving for a ride-sharing service each day.

20. Does Minnesota require that ride-sharing drivers obtain any special permits or licenses to operate their vehicle?


Yes, Minnesota requires ride-sharing drivers to obtain a Class D chauffeur’s license. To obtain the license, drivers must be at least 21 years old, pass an exam, and complete a background check.