Get a Learner Permit in Minnesota

Regardless of age, all new drivers must pass vision and written tests to obtain an instruction permit. Only with a permit can you legally practice driving on Minnesota roads. You must be at least 15 years of age to apply.

A) Ace a Few DMV Practice Permit Tests

Prepare for the written exam by taking multiple online practice permit tests before heading to a nearby Minnesota branch. Sample test questions cover topics you’ll find on the actual MN instruction permit exam.

In addition to passing some practice tests, thoroughly study the Minnesota Driver’s Manual until you feel prepared enough to breeze through the actual Driver and Vehicle Services permit test.

B) Gather Required Documents

Make you sure you have the following before heading to a Minnesota driver examination station to take your vision and written tests. Teens younger than 18 must also be enrolled in behind-the-wheel driver training before applying.

• Certificate of enrollment (“Blue Card”) proving you completed classroom instruction and are enrolled in behind-the-wheel instruction (if younger than 18)

• A completed permit application (signed and certified by your parent or legal guardian if younger than 18)

• Proper ID (see the state’s full list of identification requirements

• Social Security number

• Proper fees (check, money order or cash; no credit or debit cards)

If you are younger than 18, your parent, court appointed guardian, county appointed foster parent or the director of your transitional living program where you reside must sign and approve your application.

C) Take the Minnesota Permit Test

With the above requirements in hand, go to a MN DPS exam station to take your vision and written tests. You must correctly answer 80% of the multiple choice and true/false questions. Once you pass, you’ll receive a renewable instruction permit valid for two years.

Written Test Retakes

If you fail, you can retest. The state will only allows you to take one knowledge test per day. After failing two consecutive tests, you’ll be charged a fee to take any subsequent knowledge tests thereafter.

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