Yes, you can take your permit test online in Minnesota. The Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DPS-DVS) runs a remote version of the Class D knowledge test through drive.mn.gov, and you take it from home with a webcam and an adult proctor watching. You get your result the same day. If online testing doesn’t suit you, a DVS exam station or an authorized driving school will give you the same test in person.
What You Need at Home to Test
You need a computer or laptop with a working webcam. You also need a proctor physically in the room with you. The proctor has to be at least 21 years old and hold a valid Minnesota driver’s license. Their job is to confirm you’re the one taking the test; they can’t help you with answers.1Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Third-Party Online Knowledge Testing
How to Register and Take the Test
Go to drive.mn.gov and choose the option to take a Class D knowledge test. After you register, DPS-DVS emails you a link to the testing site, a test ticket number, a security code, and instructions.
Two clocks matter. You have 48 hours from registration to actually start the test. Once you begin, you have 30 minutes to finish.
What Happens If You Fail
You can only attempt the test once per day, whether online or in person. Fail two online attempts in a row and you lose the home-testing option. Your next try has to happen at a DVS exam station, and there’s a $10 retest fee.
What’s on the Test
The knowledge test is 40 multiple-choice questions pulled from the Minnesota Driver’s Manual. You need 32 right (80%) to pass. The manual is the only study material you need, and DPS-DVS puts it on its website for free.
The test is offered in English, Spanish, Hmong, Karen, Russian, Somali, Vietnamese, and American Sign Language. For any other language, contact DPS-DVS before registering to ask about accommodations.
Who Can Take the Test
You can apply for a Minnesota instruction permit starting at age 15, but what you have to bring with you depends on your age.2Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes. Minnesota Statutes 171.04 – Persons Not Eligible for Drivers Licenses
Under 18
If you’re 15, 16, or 17, you have to be enrolled in an approved driver education program with both classroom and behind-the-wheel components. The classroom portion is at least 30 hours. After you finish it, the Office of Driver Education sends a completion letter to your behind-the-wheel instructor, who issues a Blue Card (Certificate of Enrollment). Bring that Blue Card when you test.3Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Driver Education Home School Materials
A parent or legal guardian also has to sign your application. They can sign at the DVS office with you, or you can take the form home and have them sign in front of a notary. There’s no way around parental consent if you’re under 18.4Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Class D Drivers License for New Driver Under Age 18
18 and Older
Adults don’t need driver education, a Blue Card, or parental consent. If you’re 18 or older and otherwise eligible for a Class D license, you can register for the test, pass it, and move on to the permit.
Documents You’ll Need
At every age, you’ll need three categories of documentation ready for the follow-up DVS visit:
- Proof of identity, such as a certified birth certificate or valid passport.
- Your Social Security number, usually shown with an unlaminated Social Security card.
- Proof of Minnesota residency: a utility bill or bank or credit card statement from the last 90 days, a lease, insurance documents, or government mail from the last year.5Minnesota Department of Public Safety. REAL ID Document Requirements
Testing In Person Instead
Any DVS exam station will give you the knowledge test, and so will authorized third-party locations such as driving schools. Third-party testers may charge up to $10.1Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Third-Party Online Knowledge Testing The questions and the 80% passing standard are the same as the online version.
After You Pass
Passing the test doesn’t give you a permit. You still have to visit a DVS exam station in person to finish the application. At that visit, you’ll show your identity, residency, and Social Security documents, pass a vision screening (20/40 acuity and a 105-degree peripheral field, with glasses or contacts if you use them), and have your photo taken.6Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Driver Compliance Medical Conditions and Your License
The permit costs $29.50 and is valid for two years.7Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Drivers License and ID Card Fees