❗️Quick Info: Once moved to Minnesota, you have a tight 60-day window to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license and vehicle registrations.
Whether you moved to Minnesota for its untouched wilderness, dynamic city life, or a bit of both, there’s some administrative groundwork to cover. Before you embark on adventures to places like the Boundary Waters or catch a Twins game, getting your driving and vehicle documentation in order is essential. Here’s your handy guide to navigating through that!
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Process for Obtaining a License in Minnesota
- Application First: Start by filling out a Minnesota driver’s license application. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and your social security number is required.
- Head to Your Local DVS office: Bring along one primary and one secondary form of identification to a local DVS office.
- Goodbye, Old License: Present your former state’s driver’s license. You can skip the written and driving tests if it’s still valid. Your license will be invalidated but returned.
- Vision test: You may have skipped the challenging tests, but vision is mandatory. Bring corrective lenses if required while driving.
- Say Cheese! After passing a vision screening, smile for the camera.
- Cost Time: A class D licenses come with a fee of $38.
Vehicle Registration in Minnesota
- Registrar Office Visit: Hop over to any motor vehicle Deputy Registrar Office across the state, or if mailing is more your style, send your Application to Title and Register a Motor Vehicle (PS2000) to DVS.
- Check your Odometer: When you pull into the Registrar’s office, check and write down the mileage on your odometer.
- Ownership Proof: Bring along evidence of vehicle ownership. This could be the current certificate of title or the registration card. If you lease, a copy of your lease agreement or a power of attorney from the leasing company is required. You’ll need the leasing companies Tax ID number, too.
- Proof of Insurance: Minnesota requires all drivers to maintain “no-fault insurance.”
- Fees: Be prepared to pay a license plate fee of $15.50 and a $7 filing fee. Since Minnesota has an “ad valorem” registration tax system, registration depends on several factors, including base value and age. The minimum tax for vehicles older than ten years is $35.
Emission testing
Breathe easy; Minnesota does not require emission testing to register a vehicle.
Conclusion
Navigating the transition to Minnesotan life involves a touch of paperwork, but once finished, the state’s splendors await from Duluth’s harbor to the Twin Cities bustling streets. Here’s to smooth sailing on Minnesota’s roads and lakes. Safe travels and enjoy your new home!
