License Renewal for Seniors in Minnesota: What You Need to Know

Posted by admin May 9, 2025
License Renewal for Seniors in Minnesota What You Need to Know
  • All Minnesota drivers age 21 and older, including seniors, must renew their driver’s license every four years. Licenses expire on your birthday.
  • There is no special renewal cycle or shortened period for older drivers-seniors follow the same renewal rules as younger adults.

In-Person Renewal Required

  • Renewal must be completed in person at a local Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. You can start the process with an online pre-application to save time at the office.
  • A vision test is required for every renewal, regardless of age.
  • If your license has been expired for more than one year (but less than five), you must pass both a written knowledge and a vision test before applying for a new license.

Documentation Needed

  • Bring proper identification: typically, two primary documents, or one primary and one secondary document.
  • If your name has changed since your last renewal, bring legal proof of the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order).
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Fees

  • The standard renewal fee for a Class D license (the most common type) is typically $41–$46, depending on the county.
  • For identification cards, the renewal fee is $27 for those age 65 and older.
  • Enhanced and REAL ID licenses have higher fees (for example, $61 for an enhanced driver’s license).

Senior-Specific Details

  • There is no maximum driving age in Minnesota. Seniors can continue renewing their licenses as long as they meet vision and other standard requirements.
  • Seniors (age 65+) may request to have the word “SENIOR” printed on their license, but this is optional and only added upon request.
  • Minnesota law does not require additional testing or impose restrictions based solely on age.
  • However, if there is evidence that a person may be an “at risk” driver (such as medical or cognitive concerns), the DVS may require further evaluation regardless of age.

Important Reminders

  • There is no grace period for expired licenses. If your license expires, you must renew before driving to avoid penalties and possible retesting.
  • If you or a loved one are concerned about driving safety, consult with a physician or the DVS for guidance on safe driving and potential restrictions.
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Table

RequirementSeniors (65+)All Adults (21+)
Renewal period4 years4 years
In-person renewalYesYes
Vision test requiredYesYes
Written/road test requiredOnly if license expired >1 yearOnly if license expired >1 year
Renewal fee (Class D license)$41–$46$41–$46
Optional “SENIOR” labelUpon requestN/A

Minnesota currently treats senior drivers the same as other adults for license renewal, with no extra requirements or shorter renewal cycles. Always check with your local DVS office for the most current procedures and fees.

Sources

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[1] https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/license-and-id/common-transactions-all-dl-and-id-card-types/renew-your-dl-id-card
[2] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/minnesota-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[3] https://zutobi.com/us/mn-car/driver-guides/minnesota-drivers-license-renewal-guide
[4] https://hutchinsonmn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/driverslicfeechart.pdf
[5] https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals