What the Arden Hills location offers and who uses it
The Arden Hills DMV/DVS exam station is a Minnesota Department of Public Safety facility that administers written knowledge tests and behind-the-wheel driving tests for driver's license and permit holders. It is located in the north metro area and serves residents across a wide geographic region who need to complete their testing requirements. The station operates during standard business hours and handles both initial license tests and renewal-related exams.
This location is one of several exam stations across Minnesota. It is not the only place to test in the metro area, but it serves a specific geographic zone. If you live or work closer to another station, you may have the option to test there instead — the DMV website lists all active locations and their service areas.
Key Takeaways
- The Arden Hills station administers both written knowledge tests and behind-the-wheel driving tests for driver's licenses and permits.
- You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your permit or license documentation to your test appointment.
- Written tests and road tests are scheduled separately, and you must pass the written test before you can schedule a road test.
- The station operates during posted business hours, and you should arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in.
- If you fail a test, you can reschedule, but there may be a waiting period before you can test again at the same location.
How to schedule a test at Arden Hills
To schedule either a written test or a road test at the Arden Hills station, you must contact the Minnesota DMV directly. You cannot walk in without an appointment. The DMV accepts scheduling requests by phone, online through their website, or in person at any DMV office. When you call or visit online, tell the staff you want to test at the Arden Hills location, and they will tell you what dates and times are available.
You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the type of test you want to schedule — written, road, or both. If you are scheduling a road test, you must already have a valid permit or license. The DMV will confirm your appointment and give you a date, time, and any specific instructions for what to bring.
What documents to bring to your test
Bring a valid form of identification with your photo on it. A passport, state ID card, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two forms of non-photo ID instead, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card. You must also bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work.
For a written test, bring your permit or license if you already have one. For a road test, bring your valid permit or license, your Social Security number (or a document showing it), and proof of vehicle insurance. The vehicle you use for the road test must be registered in Minnesota and pass a safety inspection. Bring the registration and proof of insurance for that vehicle.
Do not bring prohibited items such as phones, cameras, or notes into the testing area. The station will have a find place to store your belongings during the test.
What happens during the written knowledge test
The written test covers Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test is multiple choice and is administered on a computer at the station. You will have a set amount of time to complete it — the DMV will tell you the time limit when you arrive. The passing score is typically 80 percent, though this can vary depending on the type of license you are testing for.
You may be allowed to take the test in a language other than English if you request it when you schedule. The station offers tests in several languages. If you need a language accommodation, ask about it when you book your appointment.
What happens during the behind-the-wheel road test
The road test takes place in a vehicle and lasts approximately 30 minutes. An examiner from the DMV will sit in the passenger seat and observe your driving. You will be asked to perform basic driving tasks such as starting the vehicle, turning, stopping, parking, and merging. The examiner will also ask you to demonstrate knowledge of traffic laws by answering questions while you drive.
You must provide the vehicle for the test. It must be a standard passenger car, truck, or van — not a motorcycle or commercial vehicle, unless you are testing for that specific license class. The vehicle must have valid registration, proof of insurance, and a current safety inspection sticker. The examiner will check these documents before the test begins. The vehicle must also be in safe working condition, with functioning brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.
If the vehicle fails the safety check, you will not be able to test that day. You will need to reschedule with a different vehicle.
What to do if you do not pass your test
If you fail the written test, you can reschedule and test again. There is usually a waiting period — typically a few days to a week — before you can take the same test at the same location. The DMV will tell you when you can schedule your next attempt. You will need to pay the test fee again.
If you fail the road test, the same waiting period applies. The examiner will give you a written report explaining what you did not do correctly. Review that report before you test again. Many people find it helpful to practice the specific skills the examiner noted before scheduling a second attempt.
Hours, location, and contact information
The Arden Hills DMV/DVS exam station is located in the north metro area. The exact street address, phone number, and current hours of operation are listed on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. Hours may change seasonally or due to staffing, so check the website before you go.
You can reach the station by phone to ask questions about scheduling, what to bring, or what to expect. You can also visit the main DMV website to schedule your test online. If you need to reschedule or cancel an appointment, contact the station as soon as possible — canceling in advance allows another person to use that time slot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test at Arden Hills if I live in a different part of Minnesota?
You can test at any station that has availability, though the DMV may direct you to the station closest to your address or where you hold your current license. If you prefer Arden Hills and it has open appointments, you can schedule there. Call the DMV to confirm whether the station serves your area.
What if I fail the written test — how long do I have to wait before I can test again?
You can usually reschedule within a few days to a week, depending on station availability. The DMV will tell you the earliest date you can test again when you receive your results. You will need to pay the test fee for each attempt.
Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the road test?
Yes. The vehicle must be registered in Minnesota, have valid insurance, pass a safety inspection, and be in working condition. If you do not have access to a vehicle that meets these requirements, you will not be able to test that day and will need to reschedule.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The Arden Hills station offers tests in multiple languages. You must request a language accommodation when you schedule your appointment, not on the day of the test. Ask the DMV which languages are available.
What should I do if I arrive late to my test appointment?
Call the station when ready. Arriving more than 15 minutes late may result in your appointment being cancelled. If that happens, you will need to reschedule and pay the test fee again. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in.