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How do I get my driver's license reinstated in Minnesota?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Minnesota driver's license reinstatement is administered by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) Division.

1. Common Suspension Causes

  • DWI (Minn. Stat. § 169A.20): 90-day revocation (1st DWI BAC < 0.16); 1-year (BAC ≥ 0.16 or refusal); 1-year (2nd); cancellation for 3rd+.
  • Implied Consent revocation: separate from criminal DWI, processed administratively.
  • Habitual Traffic Violator: license cancellation as "inimical to public safety" (Minn. Stat. § 171.04).
  • No insurance: revocation under Minn. Stat. § 169.797.
  • Child support arrears: license suspension under Minn. Stat. § 518A.65.
  • Failure to appear/pay: indefinite suspension.

    • 2. Reinstatement Steps

  • Pay the $30 reinstatement fee plus $250 DWI surcharge — Minn. Stat. § 171.20, .29.
  • File SR-22 for 3 years from reinstatement.
  • Complete a DWI knowledge test (and road test for cancellations).
  • Participate in the Ignition Interlock Program — mandatory for BAC ≥ 0.16, refusal, or any 2nd+ DWI.
  • Submit chemical-dependency assessment and treatment for cancellation reinstatement.

    • 3. Limited License

    After serving the mandatory portion (typically 15 days for 1st DWI), DVS may issue a Limited License (Minn. Stat. § 171.30) for employment, school, medical, treatment, chemical-dependency programs, and home maintenance.

    4. Online Reinstatement

    DVS allows online reinstatement at dvs.dps.mn.gov for most suspensions once required compliance is met.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • License suspension after DUI, especially with prior offenses
    • Suspension for child support arrears requiring family-court action
    • CDL holder facing suspension affecting livelihood
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Minn. Stat. § 171.20
    • Minn. Stat. § 169A.20
    • Minn. Stat. § 171.30
    • Minn. Stat. § 169.797
    • Minn. Stat. § 518A.65

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.