Most Minnesota DMV offices are not open on Saturday

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) does not operate Saturday hours at its main office locations. Standard hours across Minnesota are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some locations closing for lunch between noon and 1:00 p.m. If you need to visit a DVS office, you will need to plan for a weekday visit.

However, Minnesota offers several ways to handle DMV tasks without visiting an office at all, which may be more convenient than waiting for a weekday opening. Many common transactions can be completed online, by mail, or through third-party vendors who operate on different schedules. Understanding which route works for your specific task can save you a trip or let you complete the work on your own schedule.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota DVS offices are open Monday through Friday only, with no Saturday service at state-run locations.
  • You can renew your driver's license online at mn.gov/dvs if you meet renewal requirements, without visiting an office.
  • Private vehicle registration vendors and title agents in your area may have extended hours or Saturday availability for specific transactions.
  • If you cannot visit during weekday hours, calling your local DVS office can help you understand which tasks can be handled by mail or online.

What you can do online instead of visiting an office

Minnesota allows driver's license renewals entirely online through the state DVS website if your license is not expired and you have no medical conditions that require an in-person exam. You can also renew your vehicle registration online without visiting an office. Both processes take a few minutes and you receive your new documents by mail within one to two weeks.

Address changes for your driver's license or vehicle registration can also be completed online. If you are moving within Minnesota or out of state, you can update your address without an office visit. The online system accepts payment by debit or credit card, and you can complete the transaction at any time, including evenings and weekends.

Private vendors who may have Saturday hours

Minnesota has a network of private vehicle registration vendors and title agents who handle certain DMV transactions on behalf of the state. These vendors are independent businesses and set their own hours, which sometimes include Saturday mornings. They can process vehicle registrations, title transfers, and duplicate title requests.

To find a vendor near you, visit the Minnesota DVS website and search the vendor locator by city or ZIP code. Call ahead to confirm Saturday availability, because hours vary widely by location. Some vendors are open Saturday mornings but not afternoons, and not all vendors handle every type of transaction. A quick phone call can tell you whether your specific task is available on Saturday at that location.

Transactions that require a DVS office visit

Some tasks must be done at an official Minnesota DVS office and cannot be completed online, by mail, or through a private vendor. These include taking a written driver's test, passing a road test, obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), renewing a license that has expired for more than one year, or renewing a license when you have medical conditions that require an in-person evaluation.

If your task falls into this category, you will need to visit a DVS office during weekday hours. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter wait times than late afternoon or Friday visits. The DVS website shows real-time wait times for each location, so you can choose the best time to go.

How to plan your weekday visit

If you must visit a DVS office, check the Minnesota DVS website for the location nearest you and its specific hours before you go. Some offices have different closing times or lunch breaks. You can also check current wait times on the website, which updates throughout the day, so you can choose a time when the office is less busy.

Bring all required documents for your transaction — the website lists what you need by transaction type. Having everything ready before you arrive shortens your time in the office and reduces the chance you will need to return. The DVS website also shows which documents you can bring electronically versus in person.

Mail-in options for common transactions

If you cannot visit an office during business hours, some transactions can be handled by mail. Vehicle registration renewals, address changes, and duplicate license requests can often be mailed to the DVS with the required documents and payment. Processing times for mail submissions typically range from two to four weeks, so plan ahead if you need your documents by a specific date.

The Minnesota DVS website provides mail-in forms and instructions for each transaction type. Include a return envelope with postage and your contact information so the DVS can reach you if questions arise about your submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Minnesota driver's license on Saturday?

You cannot visit a DVS office on Saturday, but you can renew your license online at any time, including weekends, if you meet the requirements. Online renewal takes a few minutes and your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

Are there any Minnesota DMV locations open on weekends?

State-run DVS offices do not operate on weekends. However, some private vehicle registration vendors may be open Saturday mornings for registration and title work. Use the vendor locator on the Minnesota DVS website to find vendors near you and call to confirm their weekend hours.

What if I need to take a driver's test and can only go on Saturday?

Written and road tests are only offered at DVS offices during weekday hours. You will need to take time off work or school to visit during Monday through Friday business hours. Check the wait time tool on the DVS website to find the least busy time to visit.

Can I handle a title transfer on Saturday in Minnesota?

Some private title agents and vehicle registration vendors handle title transfers and may be open Saturday mornings. Use the Minnesota DVS vendor locator to find agents in your area, then call to confirm they handle title work and their Saturday hours.

How do I check wait times at Minnesota DMV offices?

The Minnesota DVS website displays current wait times for each office location throughout the day. You can check before you leave home to choose the office and time with the shortest wait.