Getting a Minnesota instruction permit
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Enroll in an approved driver education program and finish the classroom phase.
Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Be at least 15 and enrolled in behind-the-wheel training.
Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Have a parent or guardian approve your application.
Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pass the eyesight test and the department's knowledge test on traffic laws.
Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pay the $11.25 instruction permit fee plus surcharge.
Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Minimum age for an instruction permit
- 15, once enrolled in behind-the-wheel driver education and the classroom phase is done.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Fees
- Instruction permit $11.25; provisional license $14.25; Class D license $27.75 (REAL ID or noncompliant); enhanced versions cost more. A $2.25 surcharge and an agent filing fee are added.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Parental approval
- Applicants under 18 need the application approved by a parent (or custodial parent, guardian, foster parent, or in some cases an adult spouse, close family member or employer).Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit validity
- Two years from the date of application; it can be renewed for the same fee.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit restrictions (under 18)
- Drive only with a certified driver ed instructor, parent or guardian, or another licensed driver 21+ in the seat beside you; no cell phone use, even hands-free.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long to hold the permit
- Under 18: at least 6 months. Adults never licensed before: 6 months at age 18, 3 months at 19 and older.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Knowledge test topics
- Road signs and traffic laws, alcohol and drug effects, railroad crossings, slow-moving vehicles, school bus laws, bicycle laws, carbon monoxide and work zones.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Failing tests repeatedly
- After failing two knowledge tests in a row, the third and later attempts cost $10 each; after two failed road tests, $20 each.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Online knowledge test
- Licensed driver education programs can give students the knowledge test online at no charge to the program.Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Full license under 18
- A 16- or 17-year-old can move to a full license after 12 months on the provisional license with a clean record (at most one non-crash moving violation).Source: revisor.mn.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Minnesota guide
Official Minnesota links
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