How to Get Your Minnesota Learner's Permit

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

• Age 15 years old minimum — driver’s under 18: must complete 30 hrs classroom and be enrolled in behind-the-wheel training (18+ exempt)
• Must be a Minnesota resident
• Parent or legal guardian must accompany you if under 18

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You'll need to bring original documents (no photocopies) to prove:

• Identity — certified birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or permanent resident card
• Social Security number — Social Security card, W-2, or SSA-1099
• Minnesota residency (2 documents) — utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, school enrollment, etc.
• Driver's education enrollment — "Blue Card" or "Pink Card" certificate of enrollment required if under 18
• Parent/guardian consent — must be present and sign if under 18

Step 3: Study for the Knowledge Test

Minnesota DVS written test: you must score 80% to pass. Road signs questions are included — there is no separate signs test.

• Download the Minnesota Driver's License Manual (free from drive.mn.gov)
• Take our free practice test — aim for 90%+ before going in
• Focus on: road signs, DWI laws, right-of-way, speed limits, school bus rules

Step 4: Visit a Minnesota DVS Service Center

• Find a location: Use the Minnesota DVS Location Finder — services are available at DVS exam stations and deputy registrar offices
• Schedule online if your branch offers appointments (recommended to avoid wait times)
• Bring all documents from Step 2
• Pass the vision screening — 20/40 minimum with or without corrective lenses
• Pass the knowledge test — You must score 80% to pass. Road signs are included.
• Pay the fee — check drive.mn.gov for current permit fees

Step 5: After You Get Your Permit

Your permit comes with restrictions. Here's what you must do over the next 6 months:

• Always drive with a supervisor — under 18: a licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front passenger seat. Age 18+: a licensed driver aged 18 or older in the front seat.
• Log 40–50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 15 hours at night (40 hrs if parent/guardian takes approved parent class; 50 hrs if not)
• No phone use at all — under-18 permit holders may NOT use or talk on a cell phone while driving, with or without a hands-free device. Texting is banned for all drivers.
• Hold the permit for at least 6 months before you can apply for a license
• Stay violation-free — infractions can delay your license eligibility

Step 6: Get Your Provisional License

After 6 months with no violations, you can apply for a provisional license:

• Age requirement: at least 16 years old, held instruction permit for at least 6 months, completed Minnesota-approved driver education and 40 or 50 supervised hours (15 at night)
• Pass the driving skills (road) test — required for all applicants. Schedule at dps.mn.gov/mydvs or call 651-284-1234. If you fail, the examiner will assign practice time before your next test.
• Provisional license (age 16+): midnight–5:00 AM curfew first 6 months; max 1 passenger under 20 first 6 months; max 3 second 6 months (immediate family exempt). Full Class D license available at age 18 after 12 clean months on provisional license with no alcohol/crash-related violations.