How to Schedule an Appointment at Minnesota DMV (DVS)

If you are new to Minnesota, the first thing you need to know is that we don’t really have a “DMV.” instead, we have two completely different types of offices:

1. State Exam Stations: Only for Written Tests and Road Tests. (State-run).
2. Deputy Registrar / License Centers: For License Renewal, Tabs, Titles, and Real ID applications. (County or privately run).

The Golden Rule: Do not go to a License Center for a road test—they cannot help you. Do not go to an Exam Station for license plates—they might not offer that service.

This guide explains how to use the MNDRIVE (e-Services) portal to book the right appointment at the right place.

How to Schedule a Minnesota DVS Appointment Online with the MNDRIVE Portal (drive.mn.gov)

The official scheduler is the MNDRIVE portal (formerly DVS e-Services).

• Website: drive.mn.gov
• Best For: Road Tests, Knowledge Tests, and Pre-Applications.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Visit: Go to drive.mn.gov.
2. Select Appointment: Click “Schedule or Reschedule an Exam.”
3. Pre-Apply (Recommended): The system will ask if you have “Pre-Applied.” I strongly recommend clicking “Pre-Apply for a Driver’s License” first. This lets you type in your Name, DOB, and SSN from home, generating a confirmation number that saves you 15 minutes of typing at the counter.
4. Search: Enter your Zip Code to find the nearest Exam Station.
5. Book: Select your date and time.
   • Note: You will receive a confirmation email. Keep this handy—you must show it to the examiner.

Minnesota Road Test Appointments: The 30-Day Release Rule and No-Show Fee Strategy

Booking a road test in Minnesota (especially the Metro area) is notoriously difficult. Slots fill up instantly.

The “30-Day” Release Rule: Minnesota DVS releases new road test appointments exactly 30 days in advance.

• Strategy: If you want a test on July 1st, log in to the portal on the morning of June 1st.
• No-Show Fee: If you fail to show up for your road test, you will be charged a $20.00 “No-Show Fee” before you can book another one.

Vehicle Requirements: You must provide your own car. It must have:

• Valid Insurance (Proof required).
• Working lights (brake, turn signals, headlights).
• Clean passenger seat (for the examiner).
• No “Check Engine” lights that affect safety.

Minnesota Knowledge Tests: Free First Two Attempts and $10 Retest Fee

• Cost: First 2 attempts are Free. Third attempt is $10.00.
• Appointment vs. Walk-In:
  • Metro Area: Appointments are highly recommended.
  • Greater Minnesota: Many exam stations accept walk-ins for knowledge tests, but check hours first.

What to Bring:

• “Blue Card” (if under 18): Proof you completed classroom education.
• Social Security Number.
• Birth Certificate/Passport.

License Renewal and Tabs in Minnesota: When You Can Walk In vs When You Need an Appointment

If you just need to renew your license, transfer a title, or buy tabs, you usually do NOT need an appointment.

Deputy Registrar Offices (License Centers): Most of these offices (like the ones in grocery stores or county buildings) run on a Walk-In basis. You take a number and wait.

• Check First: Some busy counties (like Hennepin or Ramsey) may offer specific appointment slots on their countywebsites, separate from the state website.

What to Bring for a Minnesota REAL ID or Enhanced ID

If you are applying for a Real ID or Enhanced ID (EDL), you cannot just bring your old license. You must bring the “Big Three”:

1. Proof of Identity: (Passport or Birth Certificate).
2. Proof of SSN: (Social Security Card or W-2).
3. Two (2) Proofs of Residency: (Utility bill, Credit Card statement, or License confirmation letter).
   • Must be less than 12 months old.

How to Cancel or Reschedule a Minnesota DVS Exam

If you cannot make your test, you must cancel at least 24 hours in advance to avoid the $20 fee.

1. Go back to drive.mn.gov.
2. Click “Schedule or Reschedule an Exam.”
3. Select “Cancel Appointment.”
4. Enter your Name, DOB, and Confirmation Number.

Phone Support: If the website is down, you can call the DVS Public Information Center:

• Driver Services: (651) 297-3298
• Vehicle Services: (651) 297-2126
• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

Conclusion

Navigating the Minnesota system comes down to one question: “Do I need a test?” If yes, book a slot at a State Exam Station 30 days in advance via drive.mn.gov. If you just need tags or a renewal, skip the appointment and walk into your local License Center. Always bring your Pre-Application confirmation number to speed up your visit.