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License Requirements

Documents Needed for Minnesota License Application

3 min read

Before you head to the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office to apply for your driver's license, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Missing paperwork can delay your application and result in multiple trips. The state requires applicants to prove their identity, lawful presence, social security number, and residency.

Primary Identification Requirements

To begin your license application, you must present one primary document that verifies your full legal name and birthdate. Acceptable options include:

  • Valid, unexpired U.S. passport
  • Certified U.S. birth certificate
  • Valid foreign passport with U.S. visa and I-94
  • Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

For a full list, visit the Minnesota DVS Identification Requirements page.

Proof of Social Security Number

Minnesota law requires that you verify your Social Security number (SSN). You can do this with:

  • Social Security card
  • W-2 form
  • SSA-1099 or Non-SSA-1099
  • Pay stub with name and SSN

If you are ineligible for a Social Security number, you must provide documentation of lawful presence and sign a declaration form.

Two Proofs of Minnesota Residency

You must provide two different documents with your current Minnesota address. Both must be dated within the past 12 months. Examples include:

  • Utility bills
  • Rental or lease agreements
  • Bank or credit card statements
  • Valid Minnesota vehicle registration

Electronic documents printed from online accounts are acceptable.

Lawful Presence and Citizenship

To be issued a standard Minnesota driver’s license, you must be lawfully present in the U.S. This status is typically confirmed with your primary ID document. For Real ID-compliant licenses, stricter documentation rules apply. See the Minnesota Real ID License Requirements for more information.

Under 18? Additional Documents Are Required

Applicants under 18 must bring:

  • Certificate of Enrollment (if applying for a permit)
  • Supervised Driving Log (if applying for a provisional license)
  • Parent or guardian signature on the application

Learn more about the Minnesota Provisional License Process and Teen Permit Rules.

Application and Testing

Once all documents are submitted, applicants must pass vision, knowledge, and road tests. Find out How to Get a Minnesota Driver License to understand the full process.

To avoid delays, you can review the full list of acceptable documents using the official Minnesota License and ID Requirements PDF.

For forms you may need during the application, visit Minnesota Driver License Application Forms.