Midwest · Instruction Permit
How to get your learner’s permit in Minnesota
Minnesota issues instruction permits at 15 to teens enrolled in driver education. Families can reduce the practice requirement from 50 to 40 hours if a parent takes a supplemental awareness class.
Minnesota permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Instruction Permit |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, including 15 at night (40 hours if a parent completes a supplemental parent course) |
| Minimum holding period | 6 months |
| Issuing agency | Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Minnesota?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 6 months
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 43/100. Easiest in the Midwest: Nebraska (#3) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Maine requires 70 supervised hours — the most of any state. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Minnesota permit date · ⚔️ Compare Minnesota with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Minnesota
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Minnesota driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Minnesota’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Minnesota residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Minnesota requires 50 hours, including 15 at night (40 hours if a parent completes a supplemental parent course). Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Minnesota, that's 6 months. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Minnesota learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Minnesota?
The minimum age is 15. Minnesota calls this credential the Instruction Permit.
How many supervised driving hours does Minnesota require?
Minnesota requires 50 hours, including 15 at night (40 hours if a parent completes a supplemental parent course). A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Minnesota?
The minimum holding period is 6 months before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Minnesota?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Minnesota an easy state to get licensed in?
Minnesota ranks #21 of 50 on our Ease Score (43/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.