How many questions are on the Minnesota permit test?

The Minnesota written knowledge test contains 40 questions selected from a bank of 150 possible questions. The specific questions vary each time you take the test.

What's the passing score for the Minnesota written test?

You must answer at least 32 questions correctly out of 40 to pass, which equals an 80% passing score.

How much does the Minnesota written knowledge test cost?

The learner's permit fee is $29.50 (or $14.25 for the instruction permit), which includes your first two test attempts. Additional attempts after the second cost $10 each.

Can I take the Minnesota DMV test in Spanish or other languages?

Yes, Minnesota offers the written test in Spanish, Somali, Hmong, Vietnamese, Russian, Karen, and American Sign Language. Spanish is one of the most commonly tested languages in the state.

How many times can I retake the Minnesota written test?

You can retake the test as many times as needed. The first two attempts are included in the permit fee; each subsequent attempt costs $10.

Is the Minnesota permit test online or in person?

The test is taken in person at a DVS exam station, though it can be conducted on paper or computer depending on the location. You must schedule an appointment in advance.

What documents do I need to bring to the Minnesota DMV?

Bring two primary ID documents or one primary plus one secondary ID (such as a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card). If under 18, also bring proof of driver education completion (Blue Card or Pink Card) and parent/guardian signature on your permit application.

How to Get Your Minnesota Driver License: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Minnesota's driver licensing process is designed to ensure new drivers understand traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices before operating a vehicle on state roads. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DVS) administers driver and vehicle services throughout the state via exam stations in convenient locations. Minnesota offers testing in multiple languages, with Spanish being one of the most commonly tested languages after English. The state also provides tests in Somali, Hmong, Vietnamese, Russian, and Karen, reflecting the diversity of Minnesota communities. Minnesota requires applicants to be at least 15 years old to obtain a learner's permit, or 14 years old if enrolled in driver's education. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process from applying for your permit to passing your road skills test.

1. Eligibility — who can apply

Minnesota allows teenagers to begin the licensing process relatively early compared to many other states. You must be at least 15 years old to obtain a learner's permit (instruction permit), or 14 years old if you are enrolled in a driver's education course and are completing the behind-the-wheel component. You must be a Minnesota resident or be able to establish residency through proper documentation. All applicants must provide proof of identity and Social Security number. If you're under 18, you'll need parental or guardian signature on your permit application. Non-residents can also apply for Minnesota licenses if they meet the same requirements. Your age, completion of driver's education if applicable, and proof of residency are the key eligibility factors. Minnesota has a structured approach with clear progression from learner's permit to independent driving.

2. Documents you'll need

Bring two primary ID documents or one primary plus one secondary document to your DVS exam station. Primary documents include a passport, Minnesota driver's license, or national ID. Secondary documents include a certified birth certificate or permanent resident card. If you're under 18, you must also bring proof of driver education completion—either a Blue Card or Pink Card—and your parent or guardian must sign your permit application in person. Make sure all documents are in good condition and original or certified copies. Bring your Social Security card if you have it. Having all required documents ready will help your appointment move smoothly. If you're unsure whether a document qualifies, call your local DVS exam station in advance to confirm. You may also need proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement with your name and current address.

3. The Minnesota written knowledge test

Minnesota's written knowledge test consists of 40 questions drawn from a bank of 150 possible questions, so each test is unique. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass, which equals an 80% passing score. The test covers Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test is available on both paper and computer at DVS exam stations, depending on the location. The learner's permit costs $29.50 (or $14.25 for the instruction permit depending on the type), and your first two permit test attempts are included in this fee. Additional attempts after the second cost $10 each. You can retake the test the next business day if you fail. PassMyDMV offers a free 25-question practice test sampler to help you understand what to expect. Minnesota's test questions are drawn from a larger pool, so each person takes a slightly different exam.

4. Studying strategies that actually work

Begin by reading the official Minnesota Driver's Manual, which is available in English, Spanish, Somali, and Hmong. The manual covers all topics that appear on the written test and is your most reliable study resource. Focus on Minnesota-specific traffic laws and road sign recognition, as these are heavily tested. Study Minnesota's unique winter driving requirements and rules, which are particularly important given the state's climate conditions. Take advantage of free online Minnesota permit practice tests available through the DVS and third-party providers to familiarize yourself with the question format. Review Minnesota's mandatory seat belt laws, distracted driving regulations, and speed limits multiple times. Practice with sample questions repeatedly until you consistently score above 80% on practice tests. Use PassMyDMV's manual viewer to study chapter-by-chapter at your own pace. If you're taking the test in Spanish or another language, contact your local DVS office to confirm language availability before scheduling your appointment.

5. The behind-the-wheel road test

After passing your written test and obtaining your learner's permit, you'll be required to drive with a licensed adult supervisor for a minimum period before taking your road skills test. Minnesota's road test assesses your ability to safely operate a vehicle in real-world conditions. During the test, you'll be evaluated on vehicle control, proper lane positioning, turns, intersections, parking, and your response to traffic signals and road signs. The examiner will also observe how you handle unexpected situations on the road. Practice driving in various weather conditions, including rain and snow if possible, since Minnesota experiences all four seasons. Develop strong skills in merging, lane changes, and parking. Before your test date, have a parent, guardian, or driving instructor review your weaknesses and practice problem areas. Make sure you understand where all vehicle controls are located. Get plenty of rest the night before your test and arrive early on test day.

6. Costs & fees, broken down

Minnesota's learner's permit fee is $29.50, which includes your first two test attempts. If you need to take the test a third time or more, each additional attempt costs $10. The road skills test has a separate fee as well. Minnesota's overall licensing costs are moderate compared to other states. If you're pursuing a motorcycle endorsement, that involves additional test fees. Contact your local DVS office for specific current fees, as costs can change. Some applicants may qualify for fee waivers or reductions based on income, so ask when you schedule your appointment. Most people budget under $100 total for the entire permit and initial license process when all costs are combined.

7. Common reasons people fail

Many people fail Minnesota's written test because they don't study the state-specific traffic laws thoroughly enough. Questions about Minnesota's winter driving rules, speed limits in residential areas, and unique right-of-way situations appear frequently, and applicants often aren't prepared for these. Another common mistake is not practicing with enough sample questions before test day. Since Minnesota's test draws from a bank of 150 questions, the specific exam each person receives is different, so broad coverage is essential. Some test-takers fail because they rush through the exam or don't read questions carefully. Nervousness and test anxiety cause careless mistakes even among well-prepared applicants. If you fail, remember that you can retake the test the next business day and your first two attempts are included in your permit fee. Use your failure as motivation to identify weak topic areas and study those more thoroughly before your second attempt. Many people pass on their second or third try after learning from their first attempt.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Minnesota permit test?: The Minnesota written knowledge test contains 40 questions selected from a bank of 150 possible questions. The specific questions vary each time you take the test.
What's the passing score for the Minnesota written test?: You must answer at least 32 questions correctly out of 40 to pass, which equals an 80% passing score.
How much does the Minnesota written knowledge test cost?: The learner's permit fee is $29.50 (or $14.25 for the instruction permit), which includes your first two test attempts. Additional attempts after the second cost $10 each.
How old do I have to be to take the Minnesota permit test?: You must be at least 15 years old, or 14 years old if you are enrolled in a driver's education course and are completing the behind-the-wheel component.
Can I take the Minnesota DMV test in Spanish or other languages?: Yes, Minnesota offers the written test in Spanish, Somali, Hmong, Vietnamese, Russian, Karen, and American Sign Language. Spanish is one of the most commonly tested languages in the state.
How many times can I retake the Minnesota written test?: You can retake the test as many times as needed. The first two attempts are included in the permit fee; each subsequent attempt costs $10.
Is the Minnesota permit test online or in person?: The test is taken in person at a DVS exam station, though it can be conducted on paper or computer depending on the location. You must schedule an appointment in advance.
What documents do I need to bring to the Minnesota DMV?: Bring two primary ID documents or one primary plus one secondary ID (such as a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card). If under 18, also bring proof of driver education completion (Blue Card or Pink Card) and parent/guardian signature on your permit application.

Start practicing now

Open the Minnesota practice test — pick car, motorcycle, or CDL, then drill quick quizzes or full simulated exams. Free 25-question sample per track.

Read the official Minnesota driver manual with deep-link citations on every practice question.