Check your license status through the Minnesota Secretary of State website

The Minnesota Secretary of State operates an online tool where you can see whether your driver's license is valid, suspended, or revoked. You do not need to visit a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office or call — the status check takes about two minutes from your computer or phone.

Go to mn.gov/sos and look for the "License Status Check" tool in the Driver and Vehicle Services section. You will need your Minnesota driver's license number and your date of birth. The system will tell you when ready whether your license is active, suspended, revoked, or expired.

If your license shows as suspended or revoked, the tool will not always tell you why. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, child support arrears, medical suspension, or a failed drug or alcohol test. You will need to contact DVS directly to learn the specific reason and what steps to take next.

Key Takeaways

  • The Minnesota Secretary of State website has a free online tool to check whether your license is valid, suspended, expired, or revoked.
  • You need only your license number and date of birth — the check takes two minutes and gives you an when ready answer.
  • If your license is suspended or revoked, the online tool may not explain why, and you will need to contact DVS by phone or in person to find out.
  • A suspended license means you cannot legally drive; a revoked license means the state has taken it away and you must meet specific conditions to get it back.

What each license status means

Active means your license is valid and you can legally drive. The expiration date shown is when you will need to renew.

Expired means your license passed its expiration date. You cannot legally drive on an expired license in Minnesota, even if it expired yesterday. You must renew before you drive again.

Suspended means the state has temporarily taken away your driving privilege. You cannot drive during a suspension. A suspension is usually tied to a specific reason — unpaid fines, child support debt, medical reasons, or a conviction — and it ends once you resolve that reason or after a set time period passes. Suspensions can be lifted.

Revoked means the state has permanently taken away your license. A revocation is more serious than a suspension and usually follows serious violations like multiple DWIs or reckless driving convictions. To drive again after a revocation, you must meet strict conditions set by the state, which may include a waiting period, a new written test, or a road test.

What to do if your license is suspended

Contact DVS to find out why your license was suspended. Call the DVS customer service line at 651-296-6911 or visit a DVS office in person. Have your license number and date of birth ready. The DVS staff member can tell you the reason for the suspension and what you need to do to get it lifted.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines or court costs, child support arrears, medical suspension (usually after a seizure or loss of consciousness), or a failed or refused chemical test. Each reason has a different path to lifting the suspension. For example, if the suspension is due to unpaid fines, you may need to pay the fines or set up a payment plan. If it is a medical suspension, you may need a doctor's clearance.

Do not drive while your license is suspended. Driving on a suspended license is a criminal offense in Minnesota and can result in additional fines, jail time, and a longer suspension.

What to do if your license is revoked

A revocation is permanent unless you meet the conditions the state sets for reinstatement. Contact DVS to learn what those conditions are — they vary depending on why your license was revoked. Call 651-296-6911 or visit a DVS office.

If your license was revoked due to DWI convictions, you will typically have to wait a set number of years before you can even request reinstatement. You may also need to complete a substance abuse assessment, install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, and pass a new written and road test. If your license was revoked for other reasons, such as multiple reckless driving convictions, the conditions will be different.

The reinstatement process can take several months. Start by calling DVS to get the exact list of what you need to do and in what order.

How to renew an expired license

If your license is straightforward expired and not suspended or revoked, you can renew it online, by mail, or in person at a DVS office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. Go to mn.gov/sos, find the Driver and Vehicle Services section, and look for the online renewal tool. You will need your license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.

If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail by sending your current license, a completed process form (available on the Secretary of State website), and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two weeks.

If you prefer to renew in person, visit any DVS office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment. You can also take a new photo at the office if you want an updated one on your new license.

When to contact DVS directly

Call DVS customer service at 651-296-6911 if the online status check shows your license is suspended or revoked and you need to know why, if you have questions about renewing an expired license, or if you believe the status shown online is incorrect.

DVS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can also visit a DVS office in person if you prefer to speak to someone face-to-face. Find the office nearest you on the Secretary of State website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require an appointment. Check the website or call ahead before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive if my license is expired but not suspended?

No. An expired license is not valid for driving in Minnesota, even if it expired just days ago. You must renew your license before you drive. Driving on an expired license can result in a citation and fine.

What is the difference between a suspension and a revocation?

A suspension is temporary — your driving privilege is taken away for a set period or until you resolve the reason for the suspension. A revocation is permanent unless you meet strict conditions for reinstatement. Revocations are usually for serious violations and take longer to resolve.

How long does it take to lift a suspension?

It depends on the reason. Some suspensions lift automatically after a set time period. Others require you to take action — pay fines, complete a program, or get medical clearance. Call DVS at 651-296-6911 to find out the timeline for your specific suspension.

Can I renew my license online if it is expired?

You may be able to renew online if your license is only expired and not suspended or revoked. The online renewal tool will tell you whether you are may be able to access. If you are not may be able to access to renew online, you can renew by mail or in person at a DVS office.

What if the status check says my license is suspended but I do not know why?

Call DVS at 651-296-6911 with your license number and date of birth. A staff member can tell you the reason and explain what you need to do to lift the suspension. You can also visit a DVS office in person for this information.