Driver's Licenses

Save time and Pre-Apply

Pre-App online for a Driver's License or ID. You can also review where your license is in the approval process, check the status of your driving privileges, and much more.

Benton County is not a testing station. Our office does not offer written or "behind the wheel" driver's license testing. For information and locations see Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services Appointment Schedule

We do not process any Real ID/Enhanced Drivers License after 3:45 pm daily.

Real ID's: What to Know

Beginning May 7, 2025, a standard Minnesota Identification card will no longer work for air travel and for entering certain federal facilities.

List of documentation to bring to apply for a REAL ID compliant License

Renewal Notes

If you are under the age of 18 you will need a parent or legal guardian’s signature.
You will need to know your Social Security Number for any Driver’s License transaction.
Renewing for your 21st Birthday: You may renew your driver’s license no more than 60 days before your 21st birthday.

Name Change

The Social Security Administration Office must be notified and name change updated on file with their office no less than 72 hours prior to coming to our office.

If you legally change your name through marriage, divorce, or a court order, you must show proof of the change. You must present a certified marriage certificate, a certified court order specifying the name change, or a certified divorce decree or dissolution of marriage certificate specifying the name change.

If you have had a series of name changes, you must provide documentation of all of those changes (Real/Enhanced ID requirements).

Drivers License payment options

We accept the following types of payment for services:

Cash
Check (payable to Benton County, provide a daytime phone number)
Credit cards
- Accepted: Visa, MasterCard and Discover
- 2.15% convenience fee is charged for each transaction.

More Information

Click to view additional driver's license information online

Commercial Driver's License
CDL Self-Certification

Attention CDL/CLP Drivers!

Enforcement of Federal Code 383.71 begins March 20th, 2025. CDL/CLP drivers need to provide proof of citizenship/legal presence and Minnesota residency. This applies to CDL/CLP renewals and duplicates. Proving citizenship/legal presence is a one-time requirement. Minnesota residency is required every time.

Check the CDL/CLP document list for acceptable proofs.

Benton County office can only process renewals of Commercial Driver's (CDL). All testing must be done through a state office.