If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Minnesota then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you will be required to get your Minnesota DMV change of address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and an update to your vehicle’s registration documents, if applicable.
It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Minnesota requires that you file your change of address paperwork within just 60 days once you establish residency, there really isn’t a ton of time to waste.
Not sure where you should start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to know to complete your Minnesota DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office to get started.
Will you need to get a new driver’s license if you’re moving to Minnesota from another state?
Yes, unless you are a student who will not be permanently moving to the state or an active member of the U.S. military (or a dependent of either).
How do you get a new driver’s license in Minnesota?
To get a Minnesota driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you will have to go to a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office location in person, since unfortunately you can’t do a Minnesota DMV change of address online or over the phone as a new resident.
Per the rules in most states, expect that a Minnesota driver’s license for a new resident to the state is only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the Minnesota DMV or an outside court.
You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services:
Documents must be original, and no photocopies will be accepted unless otherwise noted.
Note that if your name on your primary proof of identity does not match the name on your current proof of identity then you will also have to bring along proof of a legal name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.
Find out more about required documents, including what’s acceptable as a primary and secondary document, here.
Does a Minnesota DMV change of address require a driving test?
Yes. You will be required to pass a knowledge test about Minnesota driving laws and regulations before you can apply for your new in-state driver’s license (here’s a manual to help you study). You will also be required to take a vision test. If your most recent driver’s license is expired by one year or more, be ready to take a road test as well.
Is there a fee?
Yes. The cost for a new driver’s license in Minnesota is $32. See the fees page for more information.
How long do you have to get a Minnesota driver’s license or ID card?
Minnesota requires that you complete your Minnesota DMV change of address information within just two months (60 days) of establishing residency in the state, so be sure to act fast.
So how do you know if you’re officially a resident of Minnesota? Head to an MN Driver and Vehicle Services if you plan to:
Do you need to register your out-of-state vehicle?
How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?
Minnesota requires that you register your out-of-state vehicle within 60 days of establishing residency.
How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Minnesota?
To register your out-of-state vehicle in Minnesota you’ll need to head to your local Minnesota Motor Vehicle Deputy Registrar office, since services are not available online. Bring along the following documentation when you go:
What is the registration fee?
You will need to pay a registration tax based on the type and age your vehicle, as well as a title fee that averages about $30. Visit the fees page to see how it all breaks down.
Minnesota requires that you update your driver’s license within just 30 days with your new address when moving within the state. (And no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it.)
How do you do a Minnesota change of address?
Sorry, but you’ll need to visit a Minnesota Driver’s License office in person, since Minnesota DMV change of address services are not available online. You can cut down on the length of your visit however by using their online pre-application feature before you head out to the DMV.
When you visit the DMV, be sure to bring along a primary proof of identity, such as your birth certificate or valid U.S. passport.
Will Minnesota issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?
Yes, you will get a duplicate license with your new address on it.
How much does a Minnesota change of address cost?
A Minnesota DMV change of address is $17 to account for the cost of an updated license.
Do you need to update your address on your vehicle registration?
Yes, and you have a couple options for how to do so:
How long do you have to update your vehicle registration with your new address?
You will have 30 days to update your address on your vehicle registration documents. We recommend doing it when you do your general Minnesota DMV change of address process so that you don’t forget later on.
Do you need to notify the state of Minnesota if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?
No. When you receive a driver’s license in your new state of residency Minnesota will automatically cancel your driver’s license, so there’s nothing specific for you to do on your end.
Do you need to notify the state of Minnesota if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?
Nope, you’re good to go.
Do you need to return your Minnesota license plates?
No, you can feel free to keep them.
If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Minnesota, contact the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services at (651) 297-3298. You can also fill out an online contact form if you would prefer to communicate by email.
If you are going to be reaching out by phone, you are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready when you call.
We can help you out with that! Use Moving.com to quickly and easily search for reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Minnesota move will cost, and happy moving!
Laura Mueller is a professional writer with nearly five years of experience writing about moving. She is particularly interested in topics around organization, home design, and real estate, and definitely has a few tricks up her sleeve after moving eight times in eight years during her 20s. Laura believes that moving should be as stress-free of an experience as possible, and is always working on new tips and shortcuts that she can share with readers on Moving.com.View all posts by Laura Mueller
