Driver's Licenses & Official Identification Cards

Minnesota now has three driver's license/identification options:

Standard Driver's License


A standard driver's license is valid for identification and lawful driving privileges.  

Enhanced Driver's License


An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) is a dual-purpose, optional card that combines a standard driver’s license with a border crossing document. The card allows a Minnesota resident to re-enter the U.S. by land or seaport when returning from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean, speeding passage back across the border. There are specific requirements for obtaining an EDL. Learn more about the Enhanced Driver's License.

Real ID


REAL ID refers to an act passed by Congress in 2005 to set standards for the issuance of driver’s licenses and identification cards. It sets the requirements for state driver's licenses and identification cards to be accepted for federal purposes such as boarding an airplane for domestic travel or entering certain secure federal facilities.  Learn more about the Real ID.

Changes coming in 2020 to driver's licenses and state ID cards

Starting October 2020 standard driver’s licenses and state IDs will no longer be valid for domestic air travel. If you don’t have a passport, you will need to have one of the following:

  • Real ID compliant driver’s license
  • Enhanced driver’s license
  • Real ID compliant state ID
  • Enhanced state ID

Before traveling, always check with your destination for ID requirements. For those traveling now see MN driver’s license and ID options.

New Driver's License System Offers Pre-Application Feature


The new driver's license system pre-application feature will allow Minnesotans to enter a significant portion of their driver’s license or ID card application online – including REAL ID applications.  You will need to visit an office to complete the application process to get your Minnesota driver's license.  The new feature, also available on mobile devices, includes the list of required documents for each license type so applicants can have all the necessary documents ready when they visit a driver's license office.


Fees


Fees will vary depending on transaction.  Please click the link below for a current list of fees.