Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota

1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in Minnesota?


The Minnesota Department of Public Safety issues both Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL). As of June 2021, Minnesota is compliant with the federal Real ID Act of 2005 and its citizens can use either a Real ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities. The Enhanced Driver’s License is available to Minnesota residents who wish to have the added security features that come with an EDL.

2. Is Minnesota compliant with the Real ID Act?


Yes, Minnesota is Real ID compliant.

3. Does Minnesota offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?


Yes, Minnesota offers a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program. The program is administered by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services division.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in Minnesota?


Yes, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is required to obtain a driver’s license in Minnesota.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


To obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota, you will need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of any name changes that have occurred. The documents that can be used to provide this proof include a valid passport or certificate of naturalization, a birth certificate, an unexpired driver’s license from another state, Social Security card, and official marriage records or divorce decrees.

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


The fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota are as follows:

Real ID – $25
Enhanced Driver’s License – $35
Note: These prices include the standard $18.50 state license fee.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in Minnesota?


Real IDs and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses in Minnesota are valid for four years.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


Yes, Minnesota requires proof of residency and identity to enter a DMV and apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. Applicants must provide one primary document, such as a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate, and three secondary documents, such as a Social Security card or marriage certificate, to verify identity and residency. Applicants must also pass the vision test, written test and driving test.

9. Does Minnesota accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?


Yes, Minnesota accepts Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


No, a person with a temporary visa cannot obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety states that applicants must provide a valid proof of identity, lawful status, and Social Security number in order to be eligible for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. A temporary visa is not considered a valid proof of lawful status in Minnesota.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Minnesota?


Yes, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) can be used for domestic air travel in Minnesota.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


Yes, in order to renew a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota, you must bring proof of your identity, Social Security Number, and Minnesota residency. You must also present payment for the renewal fee in the form of a check, money order, or cash.

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


To apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota, you must visit your local Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office with the required documents proving your identity, Social Security number and Minnesota residency. Acceptable documents may include a passport, birth certificate and proof of residency, such as a utility bill. You must also pay the appropriate fees.

14. Does Minnesota have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?


Yes, Minnesota has additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. Minnesota requires all applicants to present proof of identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and two documents to prove Minnesota residency. Applicants will also need to provide a valid passport, green card, military ID card, or other valid immigration document if the primary identity document is not from the United States.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Minnesota?


Yes, you can use your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Minnesota. The Enhanced Driver’s License is an acceptable form of ID for crossing the U.S.-Canadian and U.S.-Mexican borders.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


Yes, there is an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota. The minimum age requirement is 18 years old.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


Yes, a vision test is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


Yes, there is a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires applicants to wait at least 30 days after obtaining a valid Minnesota driver’s license before applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota?


Minnesota accepts payment in the form of cash, check, or credit/debit card.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Minnesota for military personnel and veterans?


Yes, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers special considerations for military personnel and veterans when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. These include waiving fees, allowing for expedited processing times, and waiving the six-month Minnesota residency requirement. Additionally, military personnel and veterans may be exempt from providing certain forms of identification, such as a Social Security card.