How to Replace a Motorcycle License in Minnesota
Minnesota drivers must replace motorcycle license credentials when they misplace, damage or have their card stolen. Once a driver loses possession of his or her license, he or she can no longer operate a motor vehicle. Requesting a duplicate motorcycle license through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) the only way drivers can preserve their driving privileges.
Those who are caught driving without a license face steep fines, penalties and even a notice of license suspension. The replacement process can be completed in person at any DPS branch located throughout Minnesota.
Before they are eligible for a new license, motorists must satisfy all requirements, submit the proper identification documents and pay the cost of replacement. For more information about this process, continue reading the topics discussed below.
When is a motorcycle license replacement required in Minnesota?
Replacing motorcycle license documents in Minnesota is mandatory whenever a driver loses his or her license, whether by misplacement, theft or damage. Changing the personal information displayed on a license also requires drivers to request a license replacement. For example, changing their legal name or correcting information on the license is reason enough to update their credentials with the DPS.
Riders must perform a motorcycle license replacement as soon as they are no longer in possession of their license. Driving any vehicle, including a motorcycle, without a license is against the law.
Fortunately, the replacement process is simple and straightforward. Once drivers submit all proper documents and identity verification, they can receive a new license and get back out on the roads.
Note that the motorbike license replacement process is not the same as renewing a license. Motorcycle license renewals are common and are required every few years before the driver’s endorsement expires.
Requesting a duplicate license is only necessary when a rider loses or misplaces his or her license. There are different fees and documents required for both, so it is important to understand the difference before starting either process.
Documents Required to Replace a Motorcycle License in Minnesota
Requesting a duplicate motorcycle license in Minnesota requires motorists to provide a handful of documents proving their identify and other personal information. The documents required for replacement vary depending on the reason for replacement. The DPS determines which documents are necessary for drivers to receive a new license.
To receive a replacement motorcycle license, motorists need to present a primary form of identification. This includes any one of the following documents:
- Certified birth record/certificate
- Certificate of Birth Abroad (FS-545 or DS-1350)
- Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen (FS-240) issued by a U.S. embassy
- Certified adoption certificate from a U.S. court
- Valid, unexpired U.S. passport book or card
- Unexpired Minnesota tribal ID card
- Unexpired active duty, reserve or retired U.S. military ID
- Valid, unexpired foreign passport plus I-94 form or an unexpired I-551 stamp
- Canadian birth/naturalization certificate with an unexpired I-94
They must also present one of the following secondary forms of identification:
- Another primary document
- Valid, current photo driver’s license, state identification card or permit
- U.S. Social Security card
- Certified government-issued marriage certificate
- Certified U.S. or Canadian court order with full name and date of birth
- Certified secondary or post-secondary school transcript containing legal full name and date of birth
- Government employee photo ID card from a jurisdiction in the U.S. or Canada
- DD-1173 or DD-214 cards
- Unexpired color-photo gun permit
How to Replace a Minnesota Motorcycle License in Person
A motorcycle license replacement in Minnesota must be performed in person at a DPS office located in the state. The state does not allow online or over-the-phone license replacements. Those who have a license photo on file with the DPS may only need to present one primary form of identification, but it is always recommended to bring more than what is necessary.
Riders who changed their name are required to bring the documents listed in the previous section.
To replace a motorcycle license, drivers must find their nearest DPS office and call to schedule an appointment. Appointments are always recommended to cut down on wait times and long lines.
Drivers must be sure to bring all required documents and identification with them to the DPS. Failing to bring proper ID results in a delayed replacement process.
Out-of-State Motorcycle License Replacement in Minnesota
Drivers with a lost motorcycle license not currently residing in Minnesota may replace their credentials using a mail-in method with the MN Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). They must submit an Out-Of-State Driver’s License/ID Card Renewal Packet to the DVS, which will use the photo and signature on file.
To replace a motorbike license out of state, drivers must request the Out-Of-State Driver’s License/ID Card Renewal Packet by contacting the MN DVS by phone at (651) 297-3298 or by email at dvs.driverslicense@state.mn.us. Those who choose to use email must provide:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Current mailing address
After receiving the packet, motorists must be sure to follow the instruction sheet and completely answer all questions. They will be asked to sign the application, have it notarized and retain the yellow copy for their personal records.
The packet also requires drivers to provide a form of payment. They must attach a check or money order when mailing it back.
All packets should be mailed to:
Driver and Vehicle Services – Central Office Town Square Building 445 Minnesota Street, Ste. 190 Saint Paul, MN 55101-5190
Drivers will receive their duplicate motorcycle license within six weeks of mailing the packet. They have the option of expediting the new license for a fee of $20. Those who choose this option can expect to receive their new credential within two weeks.
Minnesota Motorcycle License Replacement Fees
Paying the motorcycle license replacement fee is the last step in the process. If you are wondering, “How much does it cost to replace a motorcycle license?” you may be glad to learn that there is one flat rate for all replacements, regardless of age or license type.
The current duplicate motorcycle license fee is $14.75. Note that prices are always subject to change, so it is suggested that all motorcyclists contact the DPS to inquire about fees before making payments. As soon as the driver provides payment, meets all required identification conditions and submits all necessary applications and documents, he or she will receive the new license and be permitted to hit the road.
Sources
- Driver’s License Class D, Get a Duplicate License from MN.gov
- Identification Requirements from MN.gov
- Driver’s License Class D, Out of State by Mail from MN.gov