How to Get Your Minnesota Learner's Permit (DVS Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Class D Instruction Permit through the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), Department of Public Safety (DVS) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Class D Instruction Permit in Minnesota, you must be at least 15 (with driver education) and apply in person at the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), Department of Public Safety (DVS). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Minnesota's DVS Class D knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving — including winter driving — from the Minnesota Driver's Manual. Teens complete driver education and supervised practice under graduated licensing.
Documents to bring to the DVS
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity, date of birth, and legal presence (for example a certified U.S. birth certificate or valid U.S. passport)
- Proof of your Social Security number, or documentation that you are not eligible for one
- Two proofs of Minnesota residency showing your current residential address (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease)
- Signed parental or guardian consent on the application if the applicant is under 18
- Certificate of driver education enrollment (the enrollment/'blue' card) or completion showing you have finished the classroom instruction and are enrolled in behind-the-wheel training
The knowledge test
In Minnesota, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A multiple-choice knowledge exam on Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, and safe-driving rules, plus a vision screening, taken online at home or in person at a proctored testing site.
Rehearse with our free Minnesota practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Minnesota Practice Test →Fees
The DVS charges $29.50 for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DVS before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Minnesota uses a graduated licensing system: applicants at least 15 who have completed classroom driver education may get the instruction permit, which must be held at least six months (with 50 hours of supervised driving, 15 of them at night) before a provisional license at 16, and the provisional license carries first-year nighttime and passenger restrictions.
Minnesota permit FAQ
How many questions is the Minnesota permit test?
The DVS knowledge test has about 40 questions, and you need 32 of 40 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Minnesota permit test online?
In Minnesota, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A multiple-choice knowledge exam on Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, and safe-driving rules, plus a vision screening, taken online at home or in person at a proctored testing site.
What do I need to bring to the DVS?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Minnesota residency, plus anything required for a Class D Instruction Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Minnesota permit?
You can apply for a Class D Instruction Permit at 15 (with driver education) in Minnesota, provided you meet the DVS's other requirements.
How much does a Minnesota permit cost?
The DVS charges $29.50 for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DVS.
What happens if I fail the Minnesota permit test?
The permit fee covers your first two attempts at the knowledge test. If you do not pass on the first try you may retake it, and third and later attempts are charged a $10 fee each.
Official sources: dps.mn.gov · dps.mn.gov · dps.mn.gov