How to Get Your Minnesota Learner’s Permit
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk
Methodology & Editorial PolicyHow to study (step by step)
- At age 15 or older, begin your application
Begin your application online with the Minnesota DVS. (Parental/guardian consent required if under 18.) Book an appointment for the written knowledge test.
- Take the Diagnostic Test
See what you know now and what needs review.
- Practice Tests (At least 2–3 sets)
Complete at least 2–3 sets. Short 10-minute sessions tend to work best.
- Clear your mistakes
Use the Challenge Bank to fix every missed question and keep moving.
- Practice exam simulator
Keep practicing until you’re consistently scoring 80% or higher.
If you're under 18, you must be enrolled in driver education to take the official written knowledge test.
- 3–5 short study sessions per week
- 80–120 total practice questions
MN DVS permit test - what to expect
The Minnesota permit test has 40 questions. You must get 32 correct (80%) to pass.
- Where: Any Minnesota DVS office (find locations)
- Bring: ID + SSN + residency proof + permit/license fee (see checklist)
- If you fail: Separate fee per each retake attempt.
- Commonly missed: yielding to pedestrians and bicyclists, roundabouts and lane usage.