Renew your driver's license or ID card by mail
If you cannot visit a driver’s license office in person, you may be able to renew or replace your Minnesota driver’s license or ID by mail. This option is called a remote application.
Who qualifies
You may request a remote application if:
- You are temporarily outside Minnesota (for example, serving in the military or living in another state during the winter).
- Your current Minnesota driver’s license or ID card is valid.
You must renew in person (not eligible to renew online or by mail) if:
You must include a vision report (form PS30338) completed and signed by your eye doctor. The report must show your peripheral vision was tested.
How to request a remote application
To request an application:
- Complete the remote application request form or call us.
You must provide:
- Your full legal name
- Your date of birth
- Your mailing address
After you receive your application:
- Follow all instructions included in the packet. DVS will return incomplete applications.
- Provide your Social Security number on your application.
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Submit all required documents
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Notarized and signed application
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Active-duty paperwork (if applicable)
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Proof of passed exams (if applicable)
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Commercial driver's license documents (if applicable)
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- Submit payment
Submit payment with your application
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Include a check or money order payable to DVS.
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Add motorcycle endorsement fees to add or renew endorsement
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Add $20 for faster (expedited) processing
Get your new card
- Standard processing: Allow up to 6 weeks
- Expedited processing: Allow about 2 weeks
Expedited delivery requirements:
- Must be mailed to a street address
- Must be within the continental United States
- Must be signed for by an adult over the age of 18
- Cannot be mailed to a PO Box, APO address or foreign address
After returning to Minnesota
If you renewed by mail, you must visit a driver’s license office within 30 days of returning to Minnesota to have a new photo taken.
There is no additional fee unless:
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You change your name
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Your license is due for renewal