Identification Cards in Minnesota

Who Needs ID

Minnesota residents do not need to drive motor vehicles in order to have valid, photo identification cards. ID cards are available to all of the state's residents who meet the requirements.

An ID card is widely accepted as proof of identity for flying and other situations when a Minnesota resident might not necessarily be a driver, but needs to show ID.

Proof of Identity

To obtain a Minnesota ID card, you must present one of the following forms of identity at a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office:

• Minnesota driver's license, instruction permit, or state identification card with photo that is current or expired less than five years.

• One primary form of identification, including your full legal name and the month, day and year of your birth.

• One secondary form of identification from the list of acceptable documents.

Proof of Legal Name Change

If your full, legal name, including first, middle and last, is different from the name on your driver's license, instruction permit, state ID card, or primary document, you must present proof of legal name change in order to get an ID card.

Acceptable proof includes a marriage certificate, certified copies of divorce papers, or other court documents that specify the name change. The identity and name change documents must clearly demonstrate the link between your names.

Fees

Identification card fees are $17.25 for people younger than 65, $11 for those ages 65 and older, and $.50 for those with a qualifying physical or developmental disability or qualified mental illness. If your card is damaged, lost or stolen and you need a duplicate (replacement), the fee is $12.75.

Renewing Your ID Card

Minnesota ID cards are issued for a period of four years, renewable on the cardholder's date of birth. Minnesota ID cards must be renewed in person at your local Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. Be sure to call in advance to verify that your local office is equipped to handle processing of ID card renewals; not all offices are set up to process these.

Renewal fees are $17.25 for those under age of 65; $11 for those 65 years of age and older.

Replacing Your ID Card

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged ID card, head to your local DVS office. The process is fairly seamless if your photograph remains on file. If not, be prepared to present proof of identity and residency with documentation approved by the state.

The fee for a duplicate ID is $12.75.

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