Minnesota's DMV is called the Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services Division

Minnesota does not have a separate Department of Motor Vehicles. Instead, the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Driver and Vehicle Services Division handles all driver licensing, vehicle registration, and title services across the state. This division operates from a central office in St. Paul and through a network of exam stations and deputy registrar offices in counties and cities statewide.

You can reach Driver and Vehicle Services by phone at 651-297-2126 during business hours, or visit their main office at 445 Minnesota Street, St. Paul, MN 55101. Many routine transactions — including address changes, license renewals, and registration updates — can also be completed online through the state's official website or at any of the deputy registrar locations in your county.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota's DMV functions are handled by the Department of Public Safety's Driver and Vehicle Services Division, not a standalone DMV agency.
  • You can complete many transactions online, by mail, or in person at deputy registrar offices throughout the state without visiting St. Paul.
  • Address changes for your driver's license and vehicle registration can be done together or separately depending on your situation.
  • Minnesota offers online services for license renewals, registration renewals, and title transfers, which often take less time than in-person visits.
  • Each county has at least one deputy registrar office, and many larger cities have multiple locations with extended hours.

Where to Find Your Local Deputy Registrar Office

Minnesota spreads DMV services across the state through deputy registrar offices rather than operating a single central location for most transactions. Every county has at least one office, and larger counties like Hennepin (Minneapolis) and Ramsey (St. Paul) have multiple locations with different hours. You can find your nearest office by county on the Department of Public Safety website or by calling 651-297-2126.

Deputy registrars handle driver's license renewals, address changes, vehicle registration, title work, and most other routine services. Wait times vary by location and time of day — early morning and mid-week visits are typically faster than afternoons or Saturdays. Some offices accept walk-ins only, while others use appointment systems; check your specific location's policy before you go.

Online Services and What You Can Do Without Visiting an Office

Minnesota's online portal lets you renew your driver's license, renew your vehicle registration, request a duplicate title, and change your address without leaving home. You can access these services through the Department of Public Safety website using your driver's license number and date of birth. Processing times for online transactions are typically faster than in-person visits — usually three to five business days for mailed documents.

Address changes can be completed online for both your driver's license and vehicle registration at the same time. If you only need to update one (for example, your license but not your vehicle), you can do that separately. Online renewal requires a valid credit or debit card, and you will receive confirmation when ready after submission.

Driver's License Renewal and Address Changes

Minnesota driver's licenses expire on your birthday and are valid for eight years. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at any deputy registrar office. Online renewal takes about five minutes and costs the same as in-person renewal. If you are renewing by mail, send your current license and the renewal form (available on the Department of Public Safety website) to the address provided with your renewal notice.

To change your address on your driver's license, you must do so within 30 days of moving. You can update your address online, by mail, or in person. If you change your address online or by mail, you do not need to take a new photo — your license will be reissued with your new address and the same photo. In-person address changes at a deputy registrar office are processed when ready.

Vehicle Registration and Title Services

Vehicle registration in Minnesota is handled by the same deputy registrar offices that issue driver's licenses. You can renew your registration online, by mail, or in person. Online renewal is the fastest option and typically takes three to five business days. Registration renewal notices are mailed about 30 days before your registration expires, and you can renew up to 60 days early.

Title transfers, duplicate titles, and corrections to title information must be handled in person or by mail. If you are buying or selling a vehicle, both parties must sign the title, and you will need to submit it to a deputy registrar office along with the bill of sale and proof of insurance. Processing times for title work vary but typically take one to two weeks by mail or are completed the same day if submitted in person.

What Documents You Will Need for Common Transactions

For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license or state ID. For an address change, bring your current license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works). For vehicle registration renewal, you will need your current registration card and proof of insurance.

If you are transferring a vehicle title, both the seller and buyer must sign the back of the title. You will also need a bill of sale (a straightforward form available from the Department of Public Safety), proof of insurance in the new owner's name, and payment for the title transfer fee. Fees vary depending on the vehicle's value and whether you are registering it for the first time in Minnesota or transferring an existing registration.

Hours, Fees, and Payment Methods

Deputy registrar offices are typically open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. The main office in St. Paul is located at 445 Minnesota Street and operates during standard business hours. Specific hours for your local office are available on the Department of Public Safety website or by calling 651-297-2126.

Fees for driver's license renewal, registration renewal, and address changes are set by the state and do not vary by location. Current fees are posted on the Department of Public Safety website. Most deputy registrar offices accept cash, check, and credit or debit cards. Online transactions require a credit or debit card. If you are paying by mail, include a check or money order — do not send cash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I just moved to Minnesota?

Yes, you can change your address online for both your driver's license and vehicle registration. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and proof of your new address. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in Minnesota, you will need to visit a deputy registrar office or mail in your title and registration documents.

How long does it take to get a new title after I buy a vehicle?

If you submit your title transfer in person at a deputy registrar office, it is usually processed the same day and you will receive your new title by mail within one to two weeks. If you mail in your documents, allow two to three weeks for processing. You can drive the vehicle during this time if you have proof of the pending transfer.

What if my driver's license or registration expires while I am waiting for a renewal?

If you renew online or by mail before your license or registration expires, you are covered during the processing period. If your license or registration expires before the new one arrives, you should not drive. Contact the Department of Public Safety at 651-297-2126 to confirm your renewal was received and to ask about temporary documentation if needed.

Do I need an appointment to visit a deputy registrar office?

Some offices accept walk-ins only, while others use appointment systems or a combination of both. Check your specific location's policy on the Department of Public Safety website before you visit. Calling ahead to confirm hours and whether an appointment is needed can save you a trip.

Can I renew my license or registration if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Minnesota does not automatically block license or registration renewal for unpaid traffic tickets, but you may face collection action or license suspension if a ticket goes to judgment. Contact the court that issued the ticket or the Department of Public Safety to confirm your status before renewing.