To get a Minnesota instruction permit you pass the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) knowledge test and a vision screening. Teens take driver education first.
The test
- Questions on Minnesota traffic laws, road signs and safe driving, from the Minnesota Driver's Manual.
- You need 80% to pass. The free Minnesota mock tests on PassDriveTest use 40 questions with 32 needed.
- You can take the test at a DVS exam station, or online through a driver education program that takes part in DVS's web-based testing. Under 18, online testing needs an E-Card from that program.
- You can attempt the knowledge test once per calendar day.
A study plan that works
- Read the Minnesota Driver's Manual (free on the DVS website).
- Learn the signs on the Minnesota road signs tab.
- Take full mock tests and review every wrong answer.
- Aim for 36 or more out of 40 on several different mock tests.
Getting your permit (under 18)
- From age 15.
- Complete the 30 hours of driver education classroom instruction and be enrolled in behind-the-wheel training, or be in a concurrent course with the first 15 classroom hours done.
- Hold the permit at least six months before the road test.
- For the road test you need your supervised driving log and your driver education completion certificate.
Take a free Minnesota mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.