2007 Minnesota Statutes

CHAPTER 171. DRIVERS' LICENSES AND TRAINING SCHOOLS

171.001 APPLICATION OF LAWS 2005, CHAPTER 56, TERMINOLOGY CHANGES.
State agencies shall use the terminology changes specified in Laws 2005, chapter 56, section
1, when printed material and signage are replaced and new printed material and signage are
obtained. State agencies do not have to replace existing printed material and signage to comply
with Laws 2005, chapter 56, sections 1 and 2. Language changes made according to Laws 2005,
chapter 56, sections 1 and 2, shall not expand or exclude eligibility to services.
History: 2005 c 56 s 3

171.01 DEFINITIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Scope. Unless the language or context clearly indicates that a different
meaning is intended, the following words, terms, and phrases, for the purposes of this chapter,
shall be given the meanings subjoined to them.
    Subd. 2.[Renumbered subd 50]
    Subd. 3.[Renumbered subd 39]
    Subd. 4.[Renumbered subd 32]
    Subd. 5.[Renumbered subd 45]
    Subd. 6.[Renumbered subd 31]
    Subd. 7.[Repealed, 1971 c 644 s 17]
    Subd. 8.[Renumbered subd 43]
    Subd. 9.[Renumbered subd 42]
    Subd. 10.[Renumbered subd 48]
    Subd. 11.[Renumbered subd 28]
    Subd. 12.[Renumbered subd 30]
    Subd. 13.[Renumbered subd 29]
    Subd. 14.[Renumbered subd 37]
    Subd. 15.[Renumbered subd 47]
    Subd. 16.[Renumbered subd 34]
    Subd. 17.[Renumbered subd 40]
    Subd. 18.(a) (b) [Renumbered subd 49]
(c) [Renumbered subd 38]
    Subd. 19. Bus. "Bus" means every motor vehicle designed for carrying more than 15
passengers, including the driver, and used for the transportation of persons.
    Subd. 20.[Renumbered subd 41]
    Subd. 21.[Renumbered subd 46]
    Subd. 22. Commercial motor vehicle. "Commercial motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle
or combination of motor vehicles used to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle:
(1) has a gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds;
(2) has a towed unit with a gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds and the
combination of vehicles has a combined gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds;
(3) is a bus;
(4) is of any size and is used in the transportation of hazardous materials that are required to
be placarded under Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, parts 100-185; or
(5) is outwardly equipped and identified as a school bus, except for type III school buses
defined in section 169.01, subdivision 6, clause (5).
    Subd. 23.[Renumbered subd 44]
    Subd. 24.[Repealed, 1993 c 142 s 4]
    Subd. 25.[Renumbered subd 33]
    Subd. 26.[Renumbered subd 35]
    Subd. 27.[Renumbered subd 36]
    Subd. 28. Commissioner. The commissioner of public safety of the state of Minnesota,
acting directly or through duly authorized agents.
    Subd. 29. Conviction. The term "conviction" means a final conviction either after trial or
upon a plea of guilty. Also, a forfeiture of cash or collateral deposited to guarantee a defendant's
appearance in court, which forfeiture has not been vacated; the failure to comply with a written
notice to appear in court; or a breach of a condition of release without bail, is equivalent to a
conviction.
    Subd. 30. Department. The Department of Public Safety of the state, acting directly or
through its duly authorized officers and agents.
    Subd. 31. Driver. Every person, who drives or is in actual physical control of a motor vehicle.
    Subd. 32. Farm tractor. Every motor vehicle designed and used primarily as a farm
implement for drawing plows, mowing machines and other implements of husbandry.
    Subd. 33. Farm truck. For purposes of this chapter only, "farm truck" means a single-unit
truck, including a pickup truck as defined in section 168.011; truck-tractor; tractor; semitrailer; or
trailer, used by its owner:
(1) to transport from the farm to the market agricultural, horticultural, dairy, or other farm
products, including livestock, produced or finished by the owner of the farm truck;
(2) to transport the owner's other personal property from the farm to market; or
(3) to transport property and supplies to the farm of the owner.
    Subd. 34. Gross vehicle weight. "Gross vehicle weight" means the greater of:
(1) the unloaded weight of a vehicle or the unloaded weight of a truck-tractor and semitrailer
combination, plus the weight of the load; or
(2) the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum gross weight or gross vehicle
weight rating.
    Subd. 35. Hazardous materials. "Hazardous materials" means those materials found to be
hazardous for the purposes of the federal Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and that require
the motor vehicle to be placarded under Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, parts 100-185.
    Subd. 36. Head Start bus. "Head Start bus" means a motor vehicle used to transport children
or parents to or from a Head Start facility, or to or from Head Start-related activities, by the Head
Start grantee, or by someone under an agreement with the Head Start grantee. A Head Start bus
does not include a motor vehicle transporting children or parents to or from a Head Start facility
for which parents or guardians receive direct compensation from a Head Start grantee, a motor
coach operating under charter carrier authority, or a transit bus providing services as defined in
section 174.22, subdivision 7.
    Subd. 37. License. "License" means any operator's license or any other license or permit
to operate a motor vehicle issued or issuable under the laws of this state by the commissioner
of public safety including:
(1) any temporary license, instruction permit, or provisional license;
(2) the privilege of any person to drive a motor vehicle whether or not the person holds
a valid license; and
(3) any nonresident's operating privilege.
    Subd. 38. Manufactured home. "Manufactured home" means any trailer or semitrailer
which is designed, constructed, and equipped for use as a human dwelling place, living abode, or
living quarters except travel trailers.
    Subd. 39. Motor vehicle. Every vehicle that is self-propelled, other than an electric personal
assistive mobility device as defined in section 169.01, subdivision 90, and any vehicle propelled
or drawn by a self-propelled vehicle, and not deriving its power from overhead wires except
snowmobiles.
    Subd. 40. Motorcycle. "Motorcycle" means every motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for
the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the
ground, including motor scooters and bicycles with motor attached, but excluding tractors and
motorized bicycles.
    Subd. 41. Motorized bicycle. "Motorized bicycle" means a bicycle that is propelled by an
electric or a liquid fuel motor of a piston displacement capacity of 50 cubic centimeters or less,
and a maximum of two brake horsepower, which is capable of a maximum speed of not more
than 30 miles per hour on a flat surface with not more than one percent grade in any direction
when the motor is engaged. "Motorized bicycle" includes an electric-assisted bicycle as defined
in section 169.01, subdivision 4b.
    Subd. 42. Nonresident. Every person who is not a resident of this state.
    Subd. 43. Owner. Any person, firm, copartnership, association, or corporation who holds the
legal title to a vehicle, or in the event a vehicle is the subject of an agreement for the conditional
sale or lease thereof with the right of purchase upon performance of the conditions stated in the
agreement and with an immediate right of possession vested in the conditional vendee or lessee,
or in the event a mortgagor of a vehicle is entitled to possession, then such conditional vendee or
lessee or mortgagor shall be deemed the owner for the purposes of this chapter.
    Subd. 44. Passenger endorsement. "Passenger endorsement" means the driver's license
endorsement required of a person who operates a vehicle designed to transport more than 15
passengers, including the driver.
    Subd. 45. Person. Every natural person, firm, copartnership, association, or corporation.
    Subd. 46. School bus. "School bus" means a motor vehicle used to transport pupils to or
from a school defined in section 120A.22, or to or from school-related activities, by the school or
a school district or by someone under an agreement with the school or a school district. A school
bus does not include a motor vehicle transporting children to or from school for which parents
or guardians receive direct compensation from a school district, a motor coach operating under
charter carrier authority, a transit bus providing services as defined in section 174.22, subdivision
7 , or a vehicle otherwise qualifying as a type III vehicle under section 169.01, subdivision
6 , paragraph (5), when the vehicle is properly registered and insured and being driven by an
employee or agent of a school district for nonscheduled transportation.
    Subd. 47. State. "State" means a state of the United States, the District of Columbia,
Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, or any territory or insular possession subject to
the jurisdiction of the United States.
    Subd. 48. Street or highway. The entire width between property lines of every way or
place of whatever nature when any part thereof is open to the use of the public, as a matter of
right, for purpose of vehicular traffic.
    Subd. 48a. Tank vehicle. "Tank vehicle" means any commercial motor vehicle that is
designed to transport any liquid or gaseous materials within a tank, as defined in Code of Federal
Regulations, title 49, section 178.320, including a cargo tank or a portable tank as defined in Code
of Federal Regulations, title 49, section 171.8, that is either permanently or temporarily attached
to the vehicle or the chassis, except portable tanks having a rated capacity under 1,000 gallons.
    Subd. 49. Travel trailer. (a) "Travel trailer" means any trailer or semitrailer designed and
used for human living quarters that meets all of the following qualifications:
(1) is not used as the residence of the owner or occupant;
(2) is used for temporary living quarters by the owner or occupant while engaged in
recreational or vacation activities; and
(3) is towed on the public streets or highways incidental to such recreational or vacation
activities.
(b) The term "travel trailer" shall not include bunkhouses, so called, temporarily mounted on
trailers, and manufactured homes. Such bunkhouses, exclusive of the trailer and manufactured
homes, shall be listed and taxed as personal property as provided by law.
    Subd. 50. Vehicle. Every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be
transported or drawn upon any highway, excepting devices moved by human power or used
exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
History: (2720-142, 2720-145a) 1939 c 401 s 1,16, par (c); 1965 c 51 s 24-35; 1967 c 385 s
1; 1969 c 695 s 12; 1969 c 1129 art 1 s 18; 1971 c 644 s 2,3; 1973 c 421 s 3; 1975 c 29 s 6; 1977
c 214 s 10,11; 1978 c 570 s 3; 1978 c 783 s 5; 1981 c 365 s 9; 1984 c 403 s 7; 1986 c 444; 1987 c
269 s 6; 1988 c 681 s 14; 1989 c 209 art 2 s 1; 1989 c 228 s 2; 1989 c 307 s 14-16; 1989 c 342 s
20; 1990 c 529 s 3,4; 1991 c 298 art 7 s 1; 1991 c 333 s 21-23; 1993 c 78 s 3; 1994 c 465 art 3 s
62; 1994 c 603 s 16; 1994 c 647 art 13 s 17; 1Sp1995 c 3 art 2 s 40; 1996 c 435 s 17; 1998 c 388
s 7; 1998 c 397 art 11 s 3; 2002 c 285 s 5; 2005 c 135 s 7; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 55-58

DRIVERS' LICENSES

171.015 DRIVER'S LICENSE DIVISION.
    Subdivision 1. Created; director. A division in the Department of Public Safety to be
known as the Driver's License Division is hereby created, under the supervision and control of
a director. The commissioner may place the director's position in the unclassified service if the
position meets the criteria established in section 43A.08, subdivision 1a. The director shall be
assigned the duties and responsibilities prescribed in this section.
    Subd. 2. Powers and duties transferred. All the powers and duties now vested in or
imposed upon the Department of Transportation and the commissioner of transportation in regard
to drivers' licensing and safety responsibility as prescribed by this chapter and chapters 169 and
170, are hereby transferred to, vested in, and imposed upon the commissioner of public safety.
The duties and responsibilities of the Department of Transportation and the commissioner of
transportation, in relation to such matters as heretofore constituted, are hereby abolished.
    Subd. 3. Licensing chauffeur and school bus driver. The commissioner of public safety,
with the approval of the governor, may transfer and assign to the Driver's License Division duties
and responsibilities in relation to chauffeurs' licensing and school bus drivers' licensing as vested
in and imposed upon the Division of Motor Vehicles.
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1991 c 199 art 1 s 59]
    Subd. 5. Powers and duties transferred. All the powers and duties now vested in or imposed
upon the Department of Education and the Department of Transportation relating to drivers'
training as prescribed by section 171.04, are hereby transferred to, vested in, and imposed upon
the commissioner of public safety. The duties of the Department of Education and the Department
of Transportation with reference to such training as heretofore constituted are hereby abolished.
    Subd. 6. Facility for licensing activity. The commissioner of transportation shall provide
space as required for driver and chauffeur license activities at such locations and under such
contractual conditions as may be determined with the commissioner of public safety.
History: 1969 c 1129 art 1 s 18; 1976 c 166 s 7; 1982 c 560 s 50; 1986 c 444

171.02 LICENSES; TYPES, ENDORSEMENTS, RESTRICTIONS.
    Subdivision 1. License required; duplicate identification restricted. Except when
expressly exempted, a person shall not drive a motor vehicle upon a street or highway in this state
unless the person has a license valid under this chapter for the type or class of vehicle being
driven. The department shall not issue a driver's license to a person unless and until the person's
license from any jurisdiction has been invalidated. The department shall provide to the issuing
department of any jurisdiction, information that the licensee is now licensed in Minnesota. A
person is not permitted to have more than one valid driver's license at any time. The department
shall not issue to a person to whom a current Minnesota identification card has been issued a
driver's license, other than a limited license, unless the person's Minnesota identification card
has been invalidated. This subdivision does not require invalidation of a tribal identification card
as a condition of receiving a driver's license.
    Subd. 2. Driver's license classifications, endorsements, exemptions. (a) Drivers' licenses
are classified according to the types of vehicles that may be driven by the holder of each type
or class of license. The commissioner may, as appropriate, subdivide the classes listed in this
subdivision and issue licenses classified accordingly.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (c), clauses (1) and (2), and subdivision 2a, no class of
license is valid to operate a motorcycle, school bus, tank vehicle, double-trailer or triple-trailer
combination, vehicle transporting hazardous materials, or bus, unless so endorsed. There are four
general classes of licenses as described in paragraphs (c) through (f).
    (c) Class D drivers' licenses are valid for:
    (1) operating all farm trucks if the farm truck is:
    (i) controlled and operated by a farmer, including operation by an immediate family member
or an employee of the farmer;
    (ii) used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, or farm supplies, including
hazardous materials, to or from a farm;
    (iii) not used in the operations of a common or contract motor carrier as governed by Code of
Federal Regulations, title 49, part 365; and
    (iv) used within 150 miles of the farm;
    (2) notwithstanding paragraph (b), operating an authorized emergency vehicle, as defined in
section 169.01, subdivision 5, whether or not in excess of 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight;
    (3) operating a recreational vehicle as defined in section 168.011, subdivision 25, that is
operated for personal use;
    (4) operating all single-unit vehicles except vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of more
than 26,000 pounds, vehicles designed to carry more than 15 passengers including the driver,
and vehicles that carry hazardous materials;
    (5) notwithstanding paragraph (d), operating a type A school bus or a multifunctional school
activity bus without a school bus endorsement if:
    (i) the bus has a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less;
    (ii) the bus is designed to transport 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver; and
    (iii) the requirements of subdivision 2a are satisfied, as determined by the commissioner;
    (6) operating any vehicle or combination of vehicles when operated by a licensed peace
officer while on duty; and
    (7) towing vehicles if:
    (i) the towed vehicles have a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less; or
    (ii) the towed vehicles have a gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds and the
combination of vehicles has a gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or less.
    (d) Class C drivers' licenses are valid for:
    (1) operating class D motor vehicles;
    (2) with a hazardous materials endorsement, transporting hazardous materials in class
D vehicles; and
    (3) with a school bus endorsement, operating school buses designed to transport 15 or
fewer passengers, including the driver.
    (e) Class B drivers' licenses are valid for:
    (1) operating all class C motor vehicles, class D motor vehicles, and all other single-unit
motor vehicles including, with a passenger endorsement, buses; and
    (2) towing only vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less.
    (f) Class A drivers' licenses are valid for operating any vehicle or combination of vehicles.
    Subd. 2a. Exception for certain school bus drivers. Notwithstanding subdivision 2,
paragraph (c), the holder of a class D driver's license, without a school bus endorsement, may
operate a type A school bus described in subdivision 2, paragraph (b), under the following
conditions:
    (a) The operator is an employee of the entity that owns, leases, or contracts for the school
bus and is not solely hired to provide transportation services under this subdivision.
    (b) The operator drives the school bus only from points of origin to points of destination, not
including home-to-school trips to pick up or drop off students.
    (c) The operator is prohibited from using the eight-light system. Violation of this paragraph
is a misdemeanor.
    (d) The operator's employer has adopted and implemented a policy that provides for annual
training and certification of the operator in:
    (1) safe operation of the type of school bus the operator will be driving;
    (2) understanding student behavior, including issues relating to students with disabilities;
    (3) encouraging orderly conduct of students on the bus and handling incidents of misconduct
appropriately;
    (4) knowing and understanding relevant laws, rules of the road, and local school bus safety
policies;
    (5) handling emergency situations; and
    (6) safe loading and unloading of students.
    (e) A background check or background investigation of the operator has been conducted that
meets the requirements under section 122A.18, subdivision 8, or 123B.03 for teachers; section
144.057 or chapter 245C for day care employees; or section 171.321, subdivision 3, for all other
persons operating a type A school bus under this subdivision.
    (f) Operators shall submit to a physical examination as required by section 171.321,
subdivision 2 .
    (g) The operator's driver's license is verified annually by the entity that owns, leases, or
contracts for the school bus.
    (h) A person who sustains a conviction, as defined under section 609.02, of violating section
169A.25, 169A.26, 169A.27, 169A.31, 169A.51, or 169A.52, or a similar statute or ordinance of
another state is precluded from operating a school bus for five years from the date of conviction.
    (i) A person who has ever been convicted of a disqualifying offense as defined in section
171.3215, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), may not operate a school bus under this subdivision.
    (j) A person who sustains a conviction, as defined under section 609.02, of a fourth moving
offense in violation of chapter 169 is precluded from operating a school bus for one year from the
date of the last conviction.
    (k) Students riding the school bus must have training required under section 123B.90,
subdivision 2 .
    (l) An operator must be trained in the proper use of child safety restraints as set forth in the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's "Guideline for the Safe Transportation of
Pre-school Age Children in School Buses," if child safety restraints are used by the passengers.
    (m) Annual certification of the requirements listed in this subdivision must be maintained
under separate file at the business location for each operator licensed under this subdivision and
subdivision 2, paragraph (b), clause (5). The business manager, school board, governing body of a
nonpublic school, or any other entity that owns, leases, or contracts for the school bus operating
under this subdivision is responsible for maintaining these files for inspection.
    (n) The school bus must bear a current certificate of inspection issued under section 169.451.
    (o) The word "School" on the front and rear of the bus must be covered by a sign that reads
"Activities" when the bus is being operated under authority of this subdivision.
    Subd. 3. Motorized bicycle. (a) A motorized bicycle may not be operated on any public
roadway by any person who does not possess a valid driver's license, unless the person has
obtained a motorized bicycle operator's permit or motorized bicycle instruction permit from
the commissioner of public safety. The operator's permit may be issued to any person who has
attained the age of 15 years and who has passed the examination prescribed by the commissioner.
The instruction permit may be issued to any person who has attained the age of 15 years and who
has successfully completed an approved safety course and passed the written portion of the
examination prescribed by the commissioner.
    (b) This course must consist of, but is not limited to, a basic understanding of:
    (1) motorized bicycles and their limitations;
    (2) motorized bicycle laws and rules;
    (3) safe operating practices and basic operating techniques;
    (4) helmets and protective clothing;
    (5) motorized bicycle traffic strategies; and
    (6) effects of alcohol and drugs on motorized bicycle operators.
    (c) The commissioner may adopt rules prescribing the content of the safety course,
examination, and the information to be contained on the permits. A person operating a motorized
bicycle under a motorized bicycle permit is subject to the restrictions imposed by section 169.974,
subdivision 2 , on operation of a motorcycle under a two-wheel instruction permit.
    (d) The fees for motorized bicycle operator's permits are as follows:

(1)	Examination and operator's permit, valid for one year	$	6.75
(2)	Duplicate	$	3.75
(3)	Renewal permit before age 21 and valid until age 21	$	9.75
(4)	Renewal permit age 21 or older and valid for four years	$	15.75
(5)	Duplicate of any renewal permit	$	5.25
(6)	Written examination and instruction permit, valid for 30 days	$	6.75

    Subd. 4. Restricted commercial driver's license. (a) The commissioner may issue restricted
commercial drivers' licenses and take the following actions to the extent that the actions are
authorized by regulation of the United States Department of Transportation in Code of Federal
Regulations, title 49, section 383.3, paragraph (f):
(1) prescribe examination requirements and other qualifications for the license;
(2) prescribe classes of vehicles that may be operated by holders of the license;
(3) specify commercial motor vehicle operation that is authorized by the license, and prohibit
other commercial motor vehicle operation by holders of the license; and
(4) prescribe the period of time during which the license is valid.
(b) Restricted commercial drivers' licenses are subject to sections 171.165 and 171.166 in the
same manner as other commercial drivers' licenses.
(c) Actions of the commissioner under this subdivision are not subject to sections 14.05 to
14.47 of the Administrative Procedure Act.
    Subd. 5. Exemption for certain backup snowplow drivers. Pursuant to the waiver
authorization set forth in Public Law 104-59, section 345, subsection (a), paragraph (5), a person
who operates a commercial motor vehicle for the purpose of removing snow or ice from a roadway
by plowing, salting, or sanding is not required to hold a commercial driver's license if the person:
(1) is an employee of a local unit of government with a population of 3,000 or less;
(2) is operating within the boundaries of the local unit of government;
(3) holds a valid class D driver's license; and
(4) except in the event of a lawful strike, is temporarily replacing the employee who normally
operates the vehicle but either is unable to operate the vehicle or is in need of additional assistance
due to a snow emergency as determined by the local unit of government.
History: (2720-143) 1939 c 401 s 2; 1963 c 393 s 1; 1971 c 644 s 4; 1973 c 16 s 1; 1977 c
214 s 12; 1977 c 429 s 63; 1978 c 479 s 1; 1979 c 227 s 3; 1981 c 363 s 29; 1984 c 546 s 1; 1985 c
248 s 70; 1985 c 291 s 19; 1986 c 444; 1986 c 454 s 21; 1987 c 269 s 7; 1987 c 358 s 110; 1989 c
301 s 4,5; 1989 c 307 s 17; 1989 c 342 s 21; 1990 c 529 s 5; 1991 c 174 s 8; 1991 c 298 art 7 s 2;
1991 c 333 s 24-26; 1992 c 581 s 14; 1993 c 78 s 4; 1993 c 142 s 1; 1993 c 266 s 20; 1994 c 465
art 3 s 48; 1995 c 95 s 7; 1995 c 174 s 3; 1996 c 275 s 1,2; 1997 c 35 s 1; 2001 c 97 s 3,4; 1Sp2001
c 6 art 2 s 60; 2002 c 371 art 1 s 50,51; 2003 c 15 art 1 s 33; 1Sp2003 c 19 art 2 s 38,64; 2005 c
160 s 1; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 59; 2006 c 253 s 11; 2007 c 143 art 3 s 3; 2007 c 146 art 8 s 11,12

171.03 PERSONS EXEMPT.
The following persons are exempt from license hereunder:
(a) A person in the employ or service of the United States federal government is exempt while
driving or operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased to the United States federal government.
(b) A person in the employ or service of the United States federal government is exempt
from the requirement to possess a valid class A, class B, or class C commercial driver's license
while driving or operating for military purposes a commercial motor vehicle owned by or leased
to the United States federal government if the person is:
(1) on active duty in the U. S. Coast Guard;
(2) on active duty in a branch of the U. S. Armed Forces, which includes the Army, Air
Force, Navy, and Marine Corps;
(3) a member of a reserve component of the U. S. Armed Forces; or
(4) on active duty in the Army National Guard or Air National Guard, which includes (i) a
member on full-time National Guard duty, (ii) a member undergoing part-time National Guard
training, and (iii) a National Guard military technician, who is a civilian required to wear a
military uniform.
The exemption provided under this paragraph does not apply to a U. S. Armed Forces Reserve
technician.
(c) Any person while driving or operating any farm tractor or implement of husbandry
temporarily on a highway is exempt. For purposes of this section, an all-terrain vehicle, as
defined in section 84.92, subdivision 8, an off-highway motorcycle, as defined in section 84.787,
subdivision 7 , and an off-road vehicle, as defined in section 84.797, subdivision 7, are not
implements of husbandry.
(d) A nonresident who is at least 15 years of age and who has in immediate possession a
valid driver's license issued to the nonresident in the home state or country may operate a motor
vehicle in this state only as a driver.
(e) A nonresident who has in immediate possession a valid commercial driver's license
issued by a state or jurisdiction in accordance with the standards of Code of Federal Regulations,
title 49, part 383, and who is operating in Minnesota the class of commercial motor vehicle
authorized by the issuing state or jurisdiction is exempt.
(f) Any nonresident who is at least 18 years of age, whose home state or country does not
require the licensing of drivers may operate a motor vehicle as a driver, but only for a period of
not more than 90 days in any calendar year, if the motor vehicle so operated is duly registered for
the current calendar year in the home state or country of the nonresident.
(g) Any person who becomes a resident of the state of Minnesota and who has in possession
a valid driver's license issued to the person under and pursuant to the laws of some other state or
jurisdiction or by military authorities of the United States may operate a motor vehicle as a driver,
but only for a period of not more than 60 days after becoming a resident of this state, without
being required to have a Minnesota driver's license as provided in this chapter.
(h) Any person who becomes a resident of the state of Minnesota and who has in possession
a valid commercial driver's license issued by another state or jurisdiction in accordance with the
standards of Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 383, is exempt for not more than 30
days after becoming a resident of this state.
(i) Any person operating a snowmobile, as defined in section 84.81, is exempt.
History: (2720-144) 1939 c 401 s 3; 1943 c 331 s 2; 1955 c 496 s 1; 1969 c 695 s 13; 1971 c
644 s 5; 1986 c 444; 1989 c 307 s 18; 1989 c 331 s 23; 1991 c 333 s 27; 1993 c 311 art 1 s 14;
art 2 s 14; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 60

171.04 PERSONS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR DRIVERS' LICENSES.
    Subdivision 1. Persons not eligible. The department shall not issue a driver's license:
(1) to any person under 18 years unless:
(i) the applicant is 16 or 17 years of age and has a previously issued valid license from
another state or country or the applicant has, for the 12 consecutive months preceding application,
held a provisional license and during that time has incurred (A) no conviction for a violation of
section 169A.20, 169A.33, 169A.35, or sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, (B) no conviction for a
crash-related moving violation, and (C) not more than one conviction for a moving violation that
is not crash related. "Moving violation" means a violation of a traffic regulation but does not
include a parking violation, vehicle equipment violation, or warning citation;
(ii) the application for a license is approved by (A) either parent when both reside in the
same household as the minor applicant or, if otherwise, then (B) the parent or spouse of the parent
having custody or, in the event there is no court order for custody, then (C) the parent or spouse of
the parent with whom the minor is living or, if subitems (A) to (C) do not apply, then (D) the
guardian having custody of the minor or, in the event a person under the age of 18 has no living
father, mother, or guardian, or is married or otherwise legally emancipated, then (E) the minor's
adult spouse, adult close family member, or adult employer; provided, that the approval required
by this item contains a verification of the age of the applicant and the identity of the parent,
guardian, adult spouse, adult close family member, or adult employer; and
(iii) the applicant presents a certification by the person who approves the application under
item (ii), stating that the applicant has driven a motor vehicle accompanied by and under
supervision of a licensed driver at least 21 years of age for at least ten hours during the period of
provisional licensure;
(2) to any person who is 18 years of age or younger, unless the person has applied for, been
issued, and possessed the appropriate instruction permit for a minimum of six months, and, with
respect to a person under 18 years of age, a provisional license for a minimum of 12 months;
(3) to any person who is 19 years of age or older, unless that person has applied for, been
issued, and possessed the appropriate instruction permit for a minimum of three months;
(4) to any person whose license has been suspended during the period of suspension except
that a suspended license may be reinstated during the period of suspension upon the licensee
furnishing proof of financial responsibility in the same manner as provided in the Minnesota
No-Fault Automobile Insurance Act;
(5) to any person whose license has been revoked except upon furnishing proof of financial
responsibility in the same manner as provided in the Minnesota No-Fault Automobile Insurance
Act and if otherwise qualified;
(6) to any drug-dependent person, as defined in section 254A.02, subdivision 5;
(7) to any person who has been adjudged legally incompetent by reason of mental illness,
mental deficiency, or inebriation, and has not been restored to capacity, unless the department is
satisfied that the person is competent to operate a motor vehicle with safety to persons or property;
(8) to any person who is required by this chapter to take a vision, knowledge, or road
examination, unless the person has successfully passed the examination. An applicant who fails
four road tests must complete a minimum of six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with an
approved instructor before taking the road test again;
(9) to any person who is required under the Minnesota No-Fault Automobile Insurance Act
to deposit proof of financial responsibility and who has not deposited the proof;
(10) to any person when the commissioner has good cause to believe that the operation of a
motor vehicle on the highways by the person would be inimical to public safety or welfare;
(11) to any person when, in the opinion of the commissioner, the person is afflicted with or
suffering from a physical or mental disability or disease that will affect the person in a manner
as to prevent the person from exercising reasonable and ordinary control over a motor vehicle
while operating it upon the highways;
(12) to a person who is unable to read and understand official signs regulating, warning,
and directing traffic;
(13) to a child for whom a court has ordered denial of driving privileges under section
260C.201, subdivision 1, or 260B.235, subdivision 5, until the period of denial is completed; or
(14) to any person whose license has been canceled, during the period of cancellation.
    Subd. 2. Disqualified operators of commercial motor vehicles. During the period of
disqualification, the department shall not issue a class C, class B, or class A commercial driver's
license, including a limited license, to a person who has been disqualified from operating a
commercial motor vehicle under section 171.165.
History: (2720-144a) 1939 c 401 s 4; 1941 c 517; 1957 c 564 s 1; 1963 c 382 s 1; 1965 c
78 s 1; 1965 c 795 s 1; 1967 c 61 s 1; 1967 c 839 s 1; 1969 c 1129 art 1 s 18; 1971 c 644 s 6;
1974 c 408 s 32 subd 4; 1981 c 363 s 30; 1982 c 548 art 4 s 14; 1986 c 444; 1988 c 558 s 1;
1989 c 262 s 1; 1989 c 307 s 19; 1995 c 226 art 3 s 13; 1996 c 275 s 3; 1996 c 455 art 3 s 24;
1998 c 388 s 8; 1999 c 139 art 4 s 2; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 23; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2002 c 371
art 1 s 52; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 61

171.041 RESTRICTED LICENSE FOR FARM WORK.
Notwithstanding any provisions of section 171.04 relating to the age of an applicant to the
contrary, the commissioner may issue a restricted farm work license to operate a motor vehicle
to a person who has attained the age of 15 years and who, except for age, is qualified to hold a
driver's license. The applicant is not required to comply with the six-month instruction permit
possession provisions of sections 171.04, subdivision 1, clause (2), and 171.05, subdivision 2a,
or with the 12-month provisional license possession provision of section 171.04, subdivision 1,
clause (1), item (i). The restricted license shall be issued solely for the purpose of authorizing the
person to whom the restricted license is issued to assist the person's parents or guardians with
farm work. A person holding this restricted license may operate a motor vehicle only during
daylight hours and only within a radius of 20 miles of the parent's or guardian's farmhouse;
however, in no case may a person holding the restricted license operate a motor vehicle in a city of
the first class. An applicant for a restricted license shall apply to the commissioner for the license
on forms prescribed by the commissioner. The application shall be accompanied by:
(1) a copy of a property tax statement showing that the applicant's parent or guardian owns
land that is classified as agricultural land or a copy of a rental statement or agreement showing
that the applicant's parent or guardian rents land classified as agricultural land; and
(2) a written verified statement by the applicant's parent or guardian setting forth the
necessity for the license.
History: 1963 c 382 s 3; 1967 c 87 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1997 c 48 s 1; 1997 c 230 s 6; 1997 c
251 s 24,25; 1998 c 388 s 9

171.042 DRIVER'S LICENSE FOR MEDICAL REASON.
Notwithstanding any provisions of section 171.04, relating to the age of an applicant, the
commissioner may issue a driver's license to a person who has attained the age of 15 years but
is under the age of 16 years, who, except for age, is qualified to hold a driver's license and who
needs to operate a motor vehicle because of personal or family medical reasons. Applicants
shall apply to the commissioner for the license on forms prescribed by the commissioner. The
application shall be accompanied by written verified statements by the applicant's parent or
guardian and by a doctor setting forth the necessity for the license. The commissioner in issuing
such license may impose such conditions and limitations as in the commissioner's judgment are
necessary to the interests of the public safety and welfare.
History: 1975 c 23 s 1; 1986 c 444

171.043 NOTICE OF PERSONS UNDER DRIVER'S LICENSE CANCELLATION.
The commissioner of public safety shall develop a program under which the commissioner
provides a monthly notice to local law enforcement agencies of the names and addresses of persons
residing within the local agency's jurisdiction whose drivers' licenses or driving privileges have
been canceled under section 171.04, subdivision 1, clause (10). At the commissioner's discretion,
the commissioner may adopt necessary procedures so that the information is current and accurate.
Data in the notice are private data on individuals and are available to law enforcement agencies.
History: 1992 c 570 art 1 s 28; 1997 c 12 art 3 s 7; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 91

171.05 INSTRUCTION PERMIT.
    Subdivision 1. Person 18 or more years of age. (a) Any person who is 18 or more years
of age and who, except for a lack of instruction in operating a motor vehicle, would otherwise
be qualified to obtain a class D driver's license under this chapter, may apply for an instruction
permit and the department shall issue the permit. The instruction permit entitles the applicant
to drive a motor vehicle for which a class D license is valid upon the highways for a period
of two years if the permit holder:
(1) has the permit in immediate possession; and
(2) is driving the vehicle while accompanied by an adult licensed driver who is actually
occupying a seat beside the driver.
(b) Any license of a lower class may be used as an instruction permit to operate a vehicle
requiring a higher class license for a period of six months after passage of the written test or tests
required for the higher class and when the licensee is accompanied by and receiving instruction
from a holder of the appropriate higher class license. A copy of the record of examination taken
for the higher class license must be carried by the driver while using the lower class license as
an instruction permit.
    Subd. 1a. Minimum period to possess instruction permit. An applicant who has received
an instruction permit under subdivision 1 and has not previously been licensed to drive in
Minnesota or in another jurisdiction must possess the instruction permit for not less than six
months for an applicant who is 18 years of age, and not less than three months for all other
applicants, before qualifying for a driver's license. An applicant with an instruction permit from
another jurisdiction must be credited with the amount of time that permit has been held.
    Subd. 1b. Instruction permit not issued. Notwithstanding subdivision 1, the commissioner
shall not issue an instruction permit to a person under age 18 if the person has ever been convicted
of a violation of section 169A.20, 169A.33, or 169A.35; a violation of a provision of sections
169A.50 to 169A.53; or a crash-related moving violation.
    Subd. 2. Person less than 18 years of age. (a) Notwithstanding any provision in subdivision
1 to the contrary, the department may issue an instruction permit to an applicant who is 15, 16, or
17 years of age and who:
(1) has completed a course of driver education in another state, has a previously issued valid
license from another state, or is enrolled in either:
(i) a public, private, or commercial driver education program that is approved by the
commissioner of public safety and that includes classroom and behind-the-wheel training; or
(ii) an approved behind-the-wheel driver education program when the student is receiving
full-time instruction in a home school within the meaning of sections 120A.22 and 120A.24, the
student is working toward a homeschool diploma, the student's status as a homeschool student
has been certified by the superintendent of the school district in which the student resides, and
the student is taking home-classroom driver training with classroom materials approved by the
commissioner of public safety;
(2) has completed the classroom phase of instruction in the driver education program;
(3) has passed a test of the applicant's eyesight;
(4) has passed a department-administered test of the applicant's knowledge of traffic laws;
(5) has completed the required application, which must be approved by (i) either parent when
both reside in the same household as the minor applicant or, if otherwise, then (ii) the parent or
spouse of the parent having custody or, in the event there is no court order for custody, then (iii)
the parent or spouse of the parent with whom the minor is living or, if items (i) to (iii) do not
apply, then (iv) the guardian having custody of the minor or, in the event a person under the age of
18 has no living father, mother, or guardian, or is married or otherwise legally emancipated, then
(v) the applicant's adult spouse, adult close family member, or adult employer; provided, that the
approval required by this clause contains a verification of the age of the applicant and the identity
of the parent, guardian, adult spouse, adult close family member, or adult employer; and
(6) has paid the fee required in section 171.06, subdivision 2.
(b) The instruction permit is valid for two years from the date of application and may be
renewed upon payment of a fee equal to the fee for issuance of an instruction permit under
section 171.06, subdivision 2.
    Subd. 2a. Permit for six months. (a) An applicant who has applied for and received an
instruction permit pursuant to subdivision 2 must possess the instruction permit for not less than
six months before qualifying for a driver's license.
(b) [Expired]
    Subd. 2b. Instruction permit use by person under age 18. (a) This subdivision applies to
persons who have applied for and received an instruction permit under subdivision 2.
(b) The permit holder may, with the permit in possession, operate a motor vehicle, but must
be accompanied by and be under the supervision of a certified driver education instructor, the
permit holder's parent or guardian, or another licensed driver age 21 or older. The supervisor
must occupy the seat beside the permit holder.
(c) The permit holder may operate a motor vehicle only when every occupant under the age
of 18 has a seat belt or child passenger restraint system properly fastened. A person who violates
this paragraph is subject to a fine of $25. A peace officer may not issue a citation for a violation
of this paragraph unless the officer lawfully stopped or detained the driver of the motor vehicle
for a moving violation as defined in section 171.04, subdivision 1. The commissioner shall not
record a violation of this paragraph on a person's driving record.
(d) The permit holder may not operate a vehicle while communicating over, or otherwise
operating, a cellular or wireless telephone, whether handheld or hands free, when the vehicle is in
motion. The permit holder may assert as an affirmative defense that the violation was made for
the sole purpose of obtaining emergency assistance to prevent a crime about to be committed, or
in the reasonable belief that a person's life or safety was in danger. Violation of this paragraph is a
petty misdemeanor subject to section 169.89, subdivision 2.
(e) The permit holder must maintain a driving record free of convictions for moving
violations, as defined in section 171.04, subdivision 1, and free of convictions for violation of
section 169A.20, 169A.33, 169A.35, or sections 169A.50 to 169A.53. If the permit holder drives
a motor vehicle in violation of the law, the commissioner shall suspend, cancel, or revoke the
permit in accordance with the statutory section violated.
    Subd. 3. Motorized bicycle. Notwithstanding any provision in subdivision 1 to the contrary,
the department, upon application and payment of the fee prescribed in section 171.02, subdivision
3 , may issue a motorized bicycle instruction permit to an applicant who is 15 years of age
and who has successfully completed the written portion of the examination prescribed by the
commissioner. The holder of this instruction permit who has the permit in possession may operate
a motorized bicycle within one mile of the holder's residence for the purpose of practicing to take
the operator portion of the examination prescribed by the commissioner.
History: (2720-144b) 1939 c 401 s 5; 1949 c 91 s 1; 1961 c 33 s 1; 1963 c 382 s 2; 1971 c
644 s 7; 1973 c 95 s 1; 1980 c 446 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1986 c 454 s 22; 1987 c 384 art 1 s 19; 1990 c
529 s 6,7; 1996 c 275 s 4; 1996 c 455 art 3 s 25; 1997 c 250 s 8; 1998 c 388 s 10-12; 1999 c 238
art 2 s 24,25; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2000 c 489 art 6 s 31; 2002 c 371 art 1 s 53; 2004 c 177 s 2;
1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 62-64; 2006 c 260 art 2 s 15

171.055 PROVISIONAL LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Requirements for provisional license. (a) The department may issue
a provisional license, which must be distinctive in appearance from a driver's license, to an
applicant who:
(1) has reached the age of 16 years;
(2) during the six months immediately preceding the application for the provisional
license has possessed an instruction permit and has incurred (i) no convictions for a violation
of section 169A.20, 169A.33, 169A.35, or sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, (ii) no convictions
for a crash-related moving violation, and (iii) no convictions for a moving violation that is not
crash related;
(3) has successfully completed a course of driver education in accordance with department
rules;
(4) completes the required application, which must be approved by (i) either parent when
both reside in the same household as the minor applicant or, if otherwise, then (ii) the parent or
spouse of the parent having custody or, in the event there is no court order for custody, then (iii)
the parent or spouse of the parent with whom the minor is living or, if items (i) to (iii) do not
apply, then (iv) the guardian having custody of the minor or, in the event a person under the age of
18 has no living father, mother, or guardian, or is married or otherwise legally emancipated, then
(v) the applicant's adult spouse, adult close family member, or adult employer; provided, that the
approval required by this clause contains a verification of the age of the applicant and the identity
of the parent, guardian, adult spouse, adult close family member, or adult employer;
(5) presents certification by the person who approves the application under clause (4) stating
that the applicant has driven a motor vehicle accompanied by and under the supervision of a
licensed driver at least 21 years of age, for no less than 30 hours, at least ten of which were
nighttime hours; and
(6) pays the fee required in section 171.06, subdivision 2.
(b) For purposes of this section, "moving violation" has the meaning given it in section
171.04, subdivision 1.
(c) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), clause (2), the commissioner shall not issue a provisional
license to a person who has ever incurred a conviction for violation of section 169A.20, 169A.33,
or 169A.35; a violation of a provision of sections 169A.50 to 169A.53; or a crash-related moving
violation, and at the time of the conviction the person did not possess an instruction permit.
    Subd. 2. Use of provisional license. (a) A provisional license holder may operate a motor
vehicle only when every occupant under the age of 18 has a seat belt or child passenger restraint
system properly fastened. A person who violates this paragraph is subject to a fine of $25. A peace
officer may not issue a citation for a violation of this paragraph unless the officer lawfully stopped
or detained the driver of the motor vehicle for a moving violation as defined in section 171.04.
The commissioner shall not record a violation of this paragraph on a person's driving record.
(b) A provisional license holder may not operate a vehicle while communicating over, or
otherwise operating, a cellular or wireless telephone, whether handheld or hands free, when the
vehicle is in motion. The provisional license holder may assert as an affirmative defense that the
violation was made for the sole purpose of obtaining emergency assistance to prevent a crime
about to be committed, or in the reasonable belief that a person's life or safety was in danger.
Violation of this paragraph is a petty misdemeanor subject to section 169.89, subdivision 2.
(c) If the holder of a provisional license during the period of provisional licensing incurs
(1) a conviction for a violation of section 169A.20, 169A.33, 169A.35, or sections 169A.50 to
169A.53, (2) a conviction for a crash-related moving violation, or (3) more than one conviction
for a moving violation that is not crash related, the person may not be issued a driver's license
until 12 consecutive months have expired since the date of the conviction or until the person
reaches the age of 18 years, whichever occurs first.
History: 1998 c 388 s 13; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2002 c 371 art 1 s 54; 2004 c 177 s 3;
1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 65; 2006 c 260 art 2 s 16

171.06 APPLICATION FOR LICENSE, PERMIT, IDENTIFICATION CARD; FEES.
    Subdivision 1. Forms of application. Every application for a Minnesota identification card,
for an instruction permit, for a provisional license, or for a driver's license must be made in a
format approved by the department, and every application must be accompanied by the proper
fee. All first-time applications and change-of-status applications must be signed in the presence of
the person authorized to accept the application, or the signature on the application may be verified
by a notary public. All applications requiring evidence of legal presence in the United States must
be signed in the presence of the person authorized to accept the application, or the signature on
the application may be verified by a notary public.
    Subd. 2. Fees. (a) The fees for a license and Minnesota identification card are as follows:

Classified Driver's License		D-$22.25	C-$26.25	B-$33.25	A-$41.25
Classified Under-21 D.L.		D-$22.25	C-$26.25	B-$33.25	A-$21.25
Instruction Permit					$10.25
Provisional License					$13.25
Duplicate License or duplicate identification card					$11.75
Minnesota identification card or Under-21 Minnesota identification card, other than duplicate, except as otherwise provided in section 171.07, subdivisions 3 and 3a					$16.25

    (b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), an individual who holds a provisional license and has
a driving record free of (1) convictions for a violation of section 169A.20, 169A.33, 169A.35,
or sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, (2) convictions for crash-related moving violations, and (3)
convictions for moving violations that are not crash related, shall have a $3.50 credit toward
the fee for any classified under-21 driver's license. "Moving violation" has the meaning given
it in section 171.04, subdivision 1.
    (c) In addition to the driver's license fee required under paragraph (a), the commissioner
shall collect an additional $4 processing fee from each new applicant or individual renewing a
license with a school bus endorsement to cover the costs for processing an applicant's initial and
biennial physical examination certificate. The department shall not charge these applicants any
other fee to receive or renew the endorsement.
    Subd. 2a. Two-wheeled vehicle endorsement fee. (a) The fee for any duplicate driver's
license obtained for the purpose of adding a two-wheeled vehicle endorsement is increased by
$18.50 for each first such duplicate license and $13 for each renewal thereof. The additional fee
must be paid into the state treasury and credited as follows:
(1) $11 of the additional fee for each first duplicate license, and $7 of the additional fee
for each renewal, must be credited to the motorcycle safety fund, which is hereby created;
provided that ten percent of fee receipts in excess of $750,000 in a fiscal year must be credited
to the general fund.
(2) The remainder of the additional fee must be credited to the general fund.
(b) All application forms prepared by the commissioner for two-wheeled vehicle
endorsements must clearly state the amount of the total fee that is dedicated to the motorcycle
safety fund.
    Subd. 2b.Never effective. See Laws 1991, c 291 art 19 s 11
    Subd. 3. Contents of application; other information. (a) An application must:
(1) state the full name, date of birth, sex, and residence address of the applicant;
(2) as may be required by the commissioner, contain a description of the applicant and any
other facts pertaining to the applicant, the applicant's driving privileges, and the applicant's
ability to operate a motor vehicle with safety;
(3) state:
(i) the applicant's Social Security number; or
(ii) if the applicant does not have a Social Security number and is applying for a Minnesota
identification card, instruction permit, or class D provisional or driver's license, that the applicant
certifies that the applicant does not have a Social Security number;
(4) contain a space where the applicant may indicate a desire to make an anatomical gift
according to paragraph (b); and
(5) contain a notification to the applicant of the availability of a living will/health care
directive designation on the license under section 171.07, subdivision 7.
(b) If the applicant does not indicate a desire to make an anatomical gift when the application
is made, the applicant must be offered a donor document in accordance with section 171.07,
subdivision 5 . The application must contain statements sufficient to comply with the requirements
of the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (1987), sections 525.921 to 525.9224, so that execution of
the application or donor document will make the anatomical gift as provided in section 171.07,
subdivision 5 , for those indicating a desire to make an anatomical gift. The application must
be accompanied by information describing Minnesota laws regarding anatomical gifts and the
need for and benefits of anatomical gifts, and the legal implications of making an anatomical
gift, including the law governing revocation of anatomical gifts. The commissioner shall
distribute a notice that must accompany all applications for and renewals of a driver's license
or Minnesota identification card. The notice must be prepared in conjunction with a Minnesota
organ procurement organization that is certified by the federal Department of Health and Human
Services and must include:
(1) a statement that provides a fair and reasonable description of the organ donation process,
the care of the donor body after death, and the importance of informing family members of
the donation decision; and
(2) a telephone number in a certified Minnesota organ procurement organization that may
be called with respect to questions regarding anatomical gifts.
(c) The application must be accompanied also by information containing relevant facts
relating to:
(1) the effect of alcohol on driving ability;
(2) the effect of mixing alcohol with drugs;
(3) the laws of Minnesota relating to operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence
of alcohol or a controlled substance; and
(4) the levels of alcohol-related fatalities and accidents in Minnesota and of arrests for
alcohol-related violations.
    Subd. 3a. Middle name. For the purposes of subdivision 3, and section 171.07, subdivision
1 , the full name of a married applicant may include, at the option of the applicant, the applicant's
family name prior to marriage instead of the applicant's given middle name, notwithstanding the
middle name specified on the applicant's marriage certificate.
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1997 c 250 s 17]
    Subd. 5.[Repealed, 1979 c 150 s 2]
    Subd. 6. Compliance with selective service system registration requirements. (a) By
applying for an original, duplicate, or renewal instruction permit, provisional driver's license,
driver's license, commercial driver's license, or state identification card, an applicant under the age
of 26, who is a United States citizen or resident, consents to registration in compliance with the
requirements of the Military Selective Service Act, United States Code, title 50, appendix, section
453. The application form must state that submission of the application constitutes consent to
registration with the selective service system, if required by federal law.
(b) The commissioner shall forward to the selective service system in an electronic format
the necessary personal information required for registration of an applicant described in paragraph
(a). If the applicant is under the age of 18, and the license or card to be issued will expire after the
applicant's 18th birthday, then the commissioner shall forward the necessary information to the
selective service system when the applicant reaches the age of 18.
History: (2720-144c) 1939 c 401 s 6; 1949 c 689 s 1,2; 1955 c 798 s 1,2; 1957 c 564 s 2,3;
1959 c 634 s 1; 1965 c 36 s 1; 1971 c 129 s 1; 1971 c 625 s 2; 1971 c 644 s 8,9; 1971 c 659 s 1;
1973 c 59 s 1; 1973 c 698 s 1-3; 1978 c 628 s 1; 1981 c 363 s 31-35; 1982 c 583 s 1; 1985 c 291 s
20; 1986 c 330 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82; 1987 c 358 s 111; 1987 c 383 s 14; 1988 c
715 s 2; 1989 c 301 s 6; 1989 c 307 s 20,21; 1990 c 509 s 1; 1990 c 510 s 1; 1990 c 529 s 8; 1990
c 573 s 21; 1991 c 202 s 13; 1991 c 233 s 60; 1991 c 291 art 19 s 1,11; 1992 c 464 art 1 s 23;
1993 c 166 s 1; 1993 c 266 s 21,22; 1994 c 501 s 3; 1994 c 536 s 22; 1994 c 632 art 1 s 5; 1995 c
265 art 2 s 19; 1996 c 275 s 5,6; 1997 c 13 s 1; 1997 c 60 s 1; 1997 c 159 art 2 s 32; 1997 c 250 s
9,18; 3Sp1997 c 3 s 2; 1998 c 388 s 14-16; 1999 c 86 art 1 s 83; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2000 c
489 art 6 s 32; 2002 c 349 s 1; 2002 c 371 art 1 s 55,56; 1Sp2003 c 14 art 10 s 3; 2004 c 192
s 1; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 37; art 3 s 66; 2007 c 143 art 3 s 4

171.061 DRIVER'S LICENSE AGENT.
    Subdivision 1. Definitions. For purposes of this section:
(1) "applicant" means an individual applying for a driver's license, provisional license,
restricted license, duplicate license, instruction permit, Minnesota identification card, or motorized
bicycle operator's permit; and
(2) "application" refers to an application for a driver's license, provisional license, restricted
license, duplicate license, instruction permit, Minnesota identification card, or motorized bicycle
operator's permit.
    Subd. 2. Appointment and discontinuance. (a) The commissioner of public safety may
appoint an individual, and for cause discontinue the appointment of an agent, to serve as a
driver's license agent.
(b) A county board may appoint an individual, and for cause discontinue the appointment of
an agent, to serve as an agent, pursuant to sections 373.32 to 373.38, with the approval of the
commissioner. If a county board does not discontinue an agent's appointment, although cause for
discontinuance exists, the commissioner may discontinue the appointment. If a county board does
not appoint an individual, the commissioner may establish an office and appoint an individual to
accept applications as the public interest and convenience may require.
(c) The county board is responsible for the acts of an agent appointed by the board and
for forwarding to the department all applications accepted and fees collected by the agent as
required by the department.
    Subd. 3. Application. An applicant may file an application with an agent. The agent shall
receive and accept applications in accordance with the laws and rules of the Department of Public
Safety for a driver's license, restricted license, duplicate license, instruction permit, Minnesota
identification card, or motorized bicycle operator's permit.
    Subd. 4. Fee; equipment. (a) The agent may charge and retain a filing fee of $5 for each
application. Except as provided in paragraph (b), the fee shall cover all expenses involved in
receiving, accepting, or forwarding to the department the applications and fees required under
sections 171.02, subdivision 3; 171.06, subdivisions 2 and 2a; and 171.07, subdivisions 3 and 3a.
(b) The department shall maintain the photo identification equipment for all agents appointed
as of January 1, 2000. Upon the retirement, resignation, death, or discontinuance of an existing
agent, and if a new agent is appointed in an existing office pursuant to Minnesota Rules, chapter
7404, and notwithstanding the above or Minnesota Rules, part 7404.0400, the department shall
provide and maintain photo identification equipment without additional cost to a newly appointed
agent in that office if the office was provided the equipment by the department before January
1, 2000. All photo identification equipment must be compatible with standards established by
the department.
(c) A filing fee retained by the agent employed by a county board must be paid into the
county treasury and credited to the general revenue fund of the county. An agent who is not an
employee of the county shall retain the filing fee in lieu of county employment or salary and is
considered an independent contractor for pension purposes, coverage under the Minnesota State
Retirement System, or membership in the Public Employees Retirement Association.
(d) Before the end of the first working day following the final day of the reporting period
established by the department, the agent must forward to the department all applications and fees
collected during the reporting period except as provided in paragraph (c).
    Subd. 5. Discontinuance or transfer of appointment. (a) An agent shall notify the
department no less than 30 days before the discontinuance of service.
(b) In the event of the notice specified in paragraph (a); death or retirement of the
agent; or revocation or discontinuance of the appointment of the agent by the county board
or commissioner, the appointment terminates and all equipment provided by the department
reverts to the department.
    Subd. 6. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules that prescribe:
(1) criteria, procedures, and requirements for appointing an individual as an agent of the
commissioner;
(2) criteria for establishment, operation, management, location, and movement of a license
application office;
(3) standards for the uniform administration of laws and rules governing the receipt of
applications and fees for applications;
(4) number of applications to be processed;
(5) standards for submitting applications including valid forms of identification, depositing
funds, maintaining records, and holding proper bonds; and
(6) standards for discontinuing the individual's appointment and for enforcement action.
History: 1997 c 250 s 10; 1999 c 86 art 1 s 41; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 26; 2000 c 479 art 1 s
18; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 38

171.07 INFORMATION ON LICENSE AND IDENTIFICATION CARD.
    Subdivision 1. License; contents. (a) Upon the payment of the required fee, the department
shall issue to every qualifying applicant a license designating the type or class of vehicles the
applicant is authorized to drive as applied for. This license must bear a distinguishing number
assigned to the licensee; the licensee's full name, date of birth, and residence address; a description
of the licensee in a manner as the commissioner deems necessary; and the usual signature of the
licensee. No license is valid unless it bears the usual signature of the licensee. Every license must
bear a colored photograph or an electronically produced image of the licensee.
(b) If the United States Postal Service will not deliver mail to the applicant's residence
address as listed on the license, then the applicant shall provide verification from the United States
Postal Service that mail will not be delivered to the applicant's residence address and that mail
will be delivered to a specified alternate mailing address. When an applicant provides an alternate
mailing address under this subdivision, the commissioner shall use the alternate mailing address
in lieu of the applicant's residence address for all notices and mailings to the applicant.
(c) Every license issued to an applicant under the age of 21 must be of a distinguishing
color and plainly marked "Under-21."
(d) The department shall use processes in issuing a license that prohibit, as nearly as possible,
the ability to alter or reproduce a license, or prohibit the ability to superimpose a photograph or
electronically produced image on a license, without ready detection.
(e) A license issued to an applicant age 65 or over must be plainly marked "senior" if
requested by the applicant.
    Subd. 1a. Filing photograph or image; data classification. The department shall file, or
contract to file, all photographs or electronically produced images obtained in the process of
issuing drivers' licenses or Minnesota identification cards. The photographs or electronically
produced images shall be private data pursuant to section 13.02, subdivision 12. Notwithstanding
section 13.04, subdivision 3, the department shall not be required to provide copies of photographs
or electronically produced images to data subjects. The use of the files is restricted:
    (1) to the issuance and control of drivers' licenses;
    (2) to criminal justice agencies, as defined in section 299C.46, subdivision 2, for the
investigation and prosecution of crimes, service of process, enforcement of no contact orders,
location of missing persons, investigation and preparation of cases for criminal, juvenile, and
traffic court, and supervision of offenders;
    (3) to public defenders, as defined in section 611.272, for the investigation and preparation of
cases for criminal, juvenile, and traffic courts; and
    (4) to child support enforcement purposes under section 256.978.
    Subd. 1b. Commercial driver's license. Each class C, class B, or class A driver's license
must be clearly marked "Minnesota Commercial Driver's License."
    Subd. 2. Limitations on issuing license. The department shall not issue a class B or class A
license to anyone who does not have or has not qualified for a class D license. A class A license
shall not be issued to anyone under 18 years of age.
    Subd. 3. Identification card; fee. (a) Upon payment of the required fee, the department
shall issue to every qualifying applicant a Minnesota identification card. The department may
not issue a Minnesota identification card to an individual who has a driver's license, other than a
limited license. The card must bear a distinguishing number assigned to the applicant; a colored
photograph or an electronically produced image of the applicant; the applicant's full name, date of
birth, and residence address; a description of the applicant in the manner as the commissioner
deems necessary; and the usual signature of the applicant.
(b) If the United States Postal Service will not deliver mail to the applicant's residence
address as listed on the Minnesota identification card, then the applicant shall provide verification
from the United States Postal Service that mail will not be delivered to the applicant's residence
address and that mail will be delivered to a specified alternate mailing address. When an applicant
provides an alternate mailing address under this subdivision, the commissioner shall use the
alternate mailing address in lieu of the applicant's residence address for all notices and mailings
to the applicant.
(c) Each identification card issued to an applicant under the age of 21 must be of a
distinguishing color and plainly marked "Under-21."
(d) Each Minnesota identification card must be plainly marked "Minnesota identification
card - not a driver's license."
(e) The fee for a Minnesota identification card is 50 cents when issued to a person who is
developmentally disabled, as defined in section 252A.02, subdivision 2; a physically disabled
person, as defined in section 169.345, subdivision 2; or, a person with mental illness, as described
in section 245.462, subdivision 20, paragraph (c).
    Subd. 3a. Identification cards for seniors. A Minnesota identification card issued to an
applicant 65 years of age or over shall be of a distinguishing color and plainly marked "senior."
The fee for the card issued to an applicant 65 years of age or over shall be one-half the required
fee for a class D driver's license rounded down to the nearest quarter dollar. A Minnesota
identification card or a Minnesota driver's license issued to a person 65 years of age or over shall
be valid identification for the purpose of qualifying for reduced rates, free licenses or services
provided by any board, commission, agency or institution that is wholly or partially funded by
state appropriations.
    Subd. 4. Expiration. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, the expiration
date of Minnesota identification cards of applicants under the age of 65 shall be the birthday of
the applicant in the fourth year following the date of issuance of the card.
(b) Minnesota identification cards issued to applicants age 65 or over shall be valid for
the lifetime of the applicant.
(c) The expiration date for an Under-21 identification card is the cardholder's 21st birthday.
The commissioner shall issue an identification card to a holder of an Under-21 identification card
who applies for the card, pays the required fee, and presents proof of identity and age, unless the
commissioner determines that the applicant is not qualified for the identification card.
    Subd. 5. Anatomical gift; donor document. The department shall offer a donor document
to each person making application for a driver's license or a Minnesota identification card
who indicates a desire not to make a decision about making an anatomical gift at the time the
application is made. The commissioner of public safety shall prescribe the form of the donor
document and the application for a driver's license or a Minnesota identification card. The forms
must be designed so that execution by the applicant of the donor document or application will
make an anatomical gift under the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (1987), sections 525.921 to
525.9224. If the donor is 18 years of age or older, the donor document or application must
be signed by the donor. If the donor cannot sign, the donor document or application may be
signed for the donor at the donor's direction, in the donor's presence, and in the presence of two
witnesses who must sign the donor document or application in the donor's presence. If the donor
is a minor, the donor document or application must be signed by the minor donor, and one of
the minor donor's parents, a legal guardian, or a parent having legal custody. If the minor cannot
sign, the donor document or application may not be signed for the minor. The department shall
identify donors of anatomical gifts by the designation "donor" on the front side of the donor's
driver's license or Minnesota identification card. The issuance of a driver's license or Minnesota
identification card identifying the person as a "donor" completes the donation process and the
license or identification card constitutes the final donor record. The department is not required
to keep the physical record of the donor card or application after issuing the driver's license or
identification card for the donation to be valid. The department shall maintain a computer record
of donors. Revocation, suspension, expiration, or cancellation of the license does not invalidate
the anatomical gift. The designation "donor" constitutes sufficient legal authority for the removal
of all body organs or parts upon death of the donor for the purpose of transplantation. The donor
designation may be removed only upon written notice to the department. Delivery of the license
or Minnesota identification card during the donor's lifetime is not necessary to make the gift valid.
    Subd. 6. Medical alert identifier. Upon the written request of the applicant, the department
shall issue a driver's license or Minnesota identification card bearing a medical alert identifier.
The applicant must request the medical alert identifier at the time the photograph or electronically
produced image is taken. No specific medical information will be contained on the driver's license
or Minnesota identification card.
    Subd. 7. Living Will/Health Care Directive designation. (a) At the written request of
the applicant and on payment of the required fee, the department shall issue, renew, or reissue
a driver's license or Minnesota identification card bearing the designation "Living Will/Health
Care Directive" or an abbreviation thereof. The designation does not constitute delivery of a
health care declaration under section 145B.05.
(b) On payment of the required fee, the department shall issue a replacement or renewal
license or identification card without the designation if requested by the applicant.
(c) This subdivision does not impose any additional duty on a health care provider, as
defined in section 145B.02, subdivision 6, or 145C.01, subdivision 6, beyond the duties imposed
in chapter 145B or 145C.
(d) For the purposes of this subdivision:
(1) "living will" means a declaration made under section 145B.03; and
(2) "health care directive" means a durable power of attorney for health care under section
145C.02, or any other written advance health care directive of the applicant that is authorized
by statute or not prohibited by law.
    Subd. 8. Certification; school bus safety laws. Before a driver's license may be issued or
renewed, an applicant for a driver's license or renewal shall certify by signature that the applicant
is aware of the duties and responsibilities required of drivers under section 169.444 to guard
against jeopardizing the safety of school children around school buses and the penalties for
violating that section. A failure to make this certification does not bar a prosecution for violation
of section 169.444.
    Subd. 9. Improved security. The commissioner shall develop new drivers' licenses and
identification cards, to be issued beginning January 1, 1994, that must be as impervious to
alteration as is reasonably practicable in their design and quality of material and technology. The
driver's license security laminate shall be made from materials not readily available to the general
public. The design and technology employed must enable the driver's license and identification
card to be subject to two or more methods of visual verification capable of clearly indicating the
presence of tampering or counterfeiting. The driver's license and identification card must not be
susceptible to reproduction by photocopying or simulation and must be highly resistant to data or
photograph substitution and other tampering.
    Subd. 10. Agreement with other agency. (a) The commissioner of public safety is
authorized to enter into agreements with other agencies to issue cards to clients of those
agencies for use in their programs. The cards may be issued to persons who do not qualify for a
Minnesota driver's license or do not provide evidence of name and identity as required by rule
for a Minnesota identification card. Persons issued cards under this subdivision will meet the
identification verification requirements of the contracting agency.
(b) The interagency agreement may include provisions for the payment of the county fee
provided in section 171.061, subdivision 4, and the actual cost to manufacture the card.
(c) Cards issued under this subdivision are not Minnesota identification cards for the
purposes defined in sections 48.512, 201.061, 201.161, 340A.503, and 604.113.
    Subd. 11. Standby or temporary custodian. (a) Upon the written request of the applicant
and upon payment of an additional fee of $4.25, the department shall issue a driver's license or
Minnesota identification card bearing a symbol or other appropriate identifier indicating that the
license holder has appointed an individual to serve as a standby or temporary custodian under
chapter 257B.
    (b) The request must be accompanied by a copy of the designation executed under section
257B.04.
    (c) The department shall maintain a computerized records system of all individuals listed as
standby or temporary custodians by driver's license and identification card applicants. This data
must be released to appropriate law enforcement agencies under section 13.69. Upon a parent's
request and payment of a fee of $4.25, the department shall revise its list of standby or temporary
custodians to reflect a change in the appointment.
    (d) At the request of the license or cardholder, the department shall cancel the standby or
temporary custodian indication without additional charge. However, this paragraph does not
prohibit a fee that may be applicable for a duplicate or replacement license or card, renewal of a
license, or other service applicable to a driver's license or identification card.
    (e) Notwithstanding sections 13.08, subdivision 1, and 13.69, the department and department
employees are conclusively presumed to be acting in good faith when employees rely on
statements made, in person or by telephone, by persons purporting to be law enforcement and
subsequently release information described in paragraph (b). When acting in good faith, the
department and department personnel are immune from civil liability and not subject to suit for
damages resulting from the release of this information.
    (f) The department and its employees:
    (1) have no duty to inquire or otherwise determine whether a designation submitted under
this subdivision is legally valid and enforceable; and
    (2) are immune from all civil liability and not subject to suit for damages resulting from a
claim that the designation was not legally valid and enforceable.
    (g) Of the fees received by the department under this subdivision:
    (1) Up to $61,000 received must be deposited in the general fund.
    (2) All other fees must be deposited in the driver services operating account in the special
revenue fund specified in section 299A.705.
    Subd. 12. Snowmobile safety certificate. (a) The department shall maintain in its records
information transmitted electronically from the commissioner of natural resources identifying
each person to whom the commissioner has issued a snowmobile safety certificate. The records
transmitted from the Department of Natural Resources must contain the full name and date of
birth as required for the driver's license or identification card. Records that are not matched to a
driver's license or identification card record may be deleted after seven years.
(b) After receiving information under paragraph (a) that a person has received a snowmobile
safety certificate, the department shall include, on all drivers' licenses or Minnesota identification
cards subsequently issued to the person, a graphic or written indication that the person has
received the certificate.
(c) If a person who has received a snowmobile safety certificate applies for a driver's license
or Minnesota identification card before that information has been transmitted to the department,
the department may accept a copy of the certificate as proof of its issuance and shall then follow
the procedures in paragraph (b).
    Subd. 13. Firearms safety designation. (a) When an applicant has a record transmitted to
the department as described in paragraph (c) or presents:
(1) a firearms safety certificate issued for successfully completing a firearms safety course
administered under section 97B.015; or
(2) an advanced hunter certificate issued for successfully completing an advanced hunter
education course administered under section 97B.025,
and requests a driver's license or identification card described in paragraph (b), the department
shall issue, renew, or reissue to the applicant a driver's license or Minnesota identification card
described in paragraph (b).
(b) Pursuant to paragraph (a), the department shall issue a driver's license or Minnesota
identification card bearing a graphic or written indication that the applicant has successfully
completed a firearms safety course administered under section 97B.015, an advanced hunter
education course administered under section 97B.025, or both of the described courses.
(c) The department shall maintain in its records information transmitted electronically from
the commissioner of natural resources identifying each person to whom the commissioner has
issued a firearms safety certificate or an advanced hunter education certificate. The records
transmitted from the Department of Natural Resources must contain the full name and date of
birth as required for the driver's license or identification card. Records that are not matched to a
driver's license or identification card record may be deleted after seven years.
    Subd. 14. Use of Social Security number. An applicant's Social Security number must
not be displayed, encrypted, or encoded on the driver's license or Minnesota identification
card or included in a magnetic strip or bar code used to store data on the license or Minnesota
identification card. The Social Security number must not be used as a Minnesota driver's license
or identification number.
History: (2720-144d) 1939 c 401 s 7; 1957 c 564 s 4; 1963 c 800 s 1; 1971 c 129 s 2; 1971 c
644 s 10; 1971 c 659 s 2; 1973 c 35 s 39; 1973 c 698 s 4; 1973 c 725 s 23; 1975 c 393 s 1; 1977 c
361 s 1-3; 1980 c 446 s 2,3; 1981 c 311 s 39; 1981 c 363 s 36-38; 1982 c 545 s 24; 1983 c 135 s
1; 1983 c 272 s 1; 1Sp1985 c 4 s 8; 1986 c 444; 1986 c 454 s 23; 1987 c 248 s 1; 1987 c 329
s 1; 1989 c 301 s 7,8; 1989 c 307 s 22; 1990 c 510 s 2-6; 1990 c 568 art 2 s 30; 1991 c 202 s
14; 1991 c 277 s 13; 1991 c 333 s 28; 1992 c 571 art 13 s 1; 1992 c 581 s 15; 1993 c 266 s 23;
1995 c 207 art 2 s 3; 1995 c 259 art 1 s 36; 1996 c 275 s 7-9; 1996 c 455 art 6 s 2; 1997 c 13
s 2,3; 1997 c 60 s 2; 1997 c 65 s 1; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 52; 1998 c 388 s 17; 1999 c 86 art 1 s 42;
1999 c 231 s 167,168; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 27; 2000 c 404 s 1; 1Sp2001 c 8 art 2 s 46; 2002 c
371 art 1 s 57,58; 1Sp2003 c 14 art 10 s 4; 2005 c 56 s 1; 2005 c 146 s 49; 2005 c 163 s 76,77;
1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 39; 2007 c 129 s 49; 2007 c 143 art 3 s 5,6

171.0701 DRIVER EDUCATION; ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION.
The commissioner shall adopt rules requiring a minimum of 30 minutes of instruction,
beginning January 1, 2007, relating to organ and tissue donations and the provisions of section
171.07, subdivision 5, for persons enrolled in driver education programs offered at public schools,
private schools, and commercial driver training schools.
History: 2002 c 305 s 1; 2006 c 192 s 1

171.071 PHOTOGRAPH ON LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD.
    Subdivision 1. Religious objection. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 171.07, the
commissioner of public safety may adopt rules to permit identification on a driver's license or
Minnesota identification card in lieu of a photograph or electronically produced image where
the commissioner finds that the licensee has religious objections to the use of a photograph
or electronically produced image.
    Subd. 2. Certain head wear permitted. If an accident involving a head injury, serious
illness, or treatment of the illness has resulted in hair loss by an applicant for a driver's license
or identification card, the commissioner shall permit the applicant to wear a hat or similar head
wear in the photograph or electronically produced image. The hat or head wear must be of an
appropriate size and type to allow identification of the holder of the license or card and must not
obscure the holder's face.
History: Ex1971 c 3 s 95; 1985 c 248 s 70; 1990 c 510 s 7; 1995 c 7 s 1

171.072 TRIBAL IDENTIFICATION CARD.
(a) If a Minnesota identification card is deemed an acceptable form of identification
in Minnesota Statutes or Rules, a tribal identification card is also an acceptable form of
identification. A tribal identification card is a primary document for purposes of Minnesota
Rules, part 7410.0400, and successor rules.
(b) For purposes of this section, "tribal identification card" means an unexpired identification
card issued by a Minnesota tribal government of a tribe recognized by the Bureau of Indian
Affairs, United States Department of the Interior, that contains the legal name, date of birth,
signature, and picture of the enrolled tribal member.
(c) The tribal identification card must contain security features that make it as impervious to
alteration as is reasonably practicable in its design and quality of material and technology. The
security features must use materials that are not readily available to the general public. The tribal
identification card must not be susceptible to reproduction by photocopying or simulation and
must be highly resistant to data or photograph substitution and other tampering. The requirements
of this section do not apply to tribal identification cards used to prove an individual's residence for
purposes of section 201.061, subdivision 3.
History: 2006 c 253 s 12

171.08 LICENSEE TO HAVE LICENSE IN POSSESSION.
Every licensee shall have the license in immediate possession at all times when operating a
motor vehicle and shall display it upon demand of a peace officer, an authorized representative
of the department, or an officer authorized by law to enforce the laws relating to the operation
of motor vehicles on public streets and highways. Unless the person is the holder of a limited
license issued under section 171.30, no person charged with violating the possession requirement
shall be convicted if the person produces in court or the office of the arresting officer a driver's
license previously issued to that person for the class of vehicle being driven which was valid at
the time of arrest or satisfactory proof that at the time of the arrest the person was validly licensed
for the class of vehicle being driven. The licensee shall also, upon request of any officer, write the
licensee's name in the presence of the officer to determine the identity of the licensee.
History: (2720-144e) 1939 c 401 s 8; 1963 c 206 s 1; 1971 c 644 s 11; 1983 c 359 s 17;
1986 c 444; 1988 c 681 s 15

171.09 DRIVING RESTRICTIONS; AUTHORITY, VIOLATIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Authority; violations. (a) The commissioner, when good cause appears, may
impose restrictions suitable to the licensee's driving ability or other restrictions applicable to
the licensee as the commissioner may determine to be appropriate to assure the safe operation
of a motor vehicle by the licensee.
(b) Pursuant to Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, section 383.95, if an applicant for
a commercial driver's license either does not successfully complete the air brake component
of the knowledge test, or does not successfully complete the skills test in a vehicle equipped
with air brakes as such tests are prescribed in Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 384,
the department shall indicate on the class C, class B, or class A commercial driver's license, if
issued, that the individual is restricted from operating a commercial motor vehicle equipped
with air brakes.
(c) Upon receiving satisfactory evidence of any violation of the restrictions on the license,
the commissioner may suspend or revoke the license. A license suspension under this section is
subject to section 171.18, subdivisions 2 and 3.
(d) A person who drives, operates, or is in physical control of a motor vehicle while in
violation of the restrictions imposed in a restricted driver's license issued to that person under this
section is guilty of a crime as follows:
(1) if the restriction relates to the possession or consumption of alcohol or controlled
substances, the person is guilty of a gross misdemeanor; or
(2) if the restriction relates to another matter, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor.
    Subd. 2. [Expired, 2005 c 136 art 18 s 11]
History: (2720-144f) 1939 c 401 s 9; 1986 c 444; 1996 c 346 s 4; 1Sp2001 c 8 art 12 s 14;
2005 c 136 art 18 s 11; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 67

171.10 DUPLICATE LICENSE; VEHICLE ENDORSEMENT.
    Subdivision 1. Duplicate license. In the event that an instruction permit, provisional license,
or driver's license issued under the provisions of this chapter is lost or destroyed, or becomes
illegible, the person to whom the same was issued shall obtain a duplicate thereof, furnishing
proof satisfactory to the department that such permit or license has been lost or destroyed or has
become illegible, and make payment of the required fee.
    Subd. 2. Endorsement added. Any person, after applying for or receiving a driver's license
and prior to the expiration year of the license, who wishes to have a motorcycle, school bus, tank
vehicle, passenger, double-trailer or triple-trailer, or hazardous materials vehicle endorsement
added to the license, shall, after taking the necessary examination, apply for a duplicate license
and make payment of the proper fee.
History: (2720-144g) 1939 c 401 s 10; 1971 c 644 s 12; 1986 c 444; 1989 c 307 s 23; 1991
c 298 art 7 s 3; 1993 c 142 s 2; 1998 c 388 s 18

171.11 DUPLICATE LICENSE; CHANGE OF DOMICILE OR NAME.
When any person, after applying for or receiving a driver's license, shall change permanent
domicile from the address named in such application or in the license issued to the person, or shall
change a name by marriage or otherwise, such person shall, within 30 days thereafter, apply for a
duplicate driver's license upon a form furnished by the department and pay the required fee. The
application or duplicate license shall show both the licensee's old address and new address or the
former name and new name as the case may be.
History: (2720-144h) 1939 c 401 s 11; 1943 c 610 s 2; 1986 c 444; 1993 c 266 s 24

171.12 DRIVING RECORD; FILING; PRIVATE DATA; SURCHARGE.
    Subdivision 1. Licenses filed in alphabetical order. (a) The department shall file every
application for a driver's license received by it and shall maintain suitable indices containing,
in alphabetical order:
(1) all applications denied and the reason for denial;
(2) all applications granted; and
(3) the name of every person whose license has been suspended, revoked, or canceled or who
has been disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle by the department, and after
each name the reasons for the action.
(b) Notwithstanding section 260B.171 or 260C.171, data revealing that the reason for the
action under paragraph (a), clause (3) is an order of the juvenile court are accessible to the public.
    Subd. 2. Accident report and record of conviction filed. The department shall file all
accident reports and abstracts of court records of convictions and violations received by it
under the laws of this state and its political subdivisions, and in connection therewith maintain
convenient records or make suitable notations in order that an individual record of each licensee
showing the convictions of such licensee and the traffic accidents in which the licensee has been
involved shall be readily ascertainable and available for the consideration of the department upon
any application for renewal of license and the revocation, suspension, or limitation of licenses.
    Subd. 2a. Alcohol concentration on driving record. When a person's driver's license
or permit to drive is revoked or suspended pursuant to section 169A.52, or when a person is
convicted for violating section 169A.20, 169A.31, 169A.33, 360.0752, or 609.21, and a test of the
person's breath, urine, or blood has been made to determine the person's alcohol concentration,
the commissioner of public safety shall record the test results on the person's driving record
pertaining to that violation. The alcohol concentration is classified as public data on individuals,
as defined in section 13.02, subdivision 15, and must be kept for the period of time specified in
subdivision 3, clause (2).
    Subd. 3. Application and record, when destroyed. The department may cause applications
for drivers' licenses, provisional licenses, and instruction permits, and related records, to be
destroyed immediately after the period for which issued, except that:
(1) the driver's record pertaining to revocations, suspensions, cancellations, disqualifications,
convictions, and accidents is cumulative and must be kept for a period of at least five years;
(2) the driver's record pertaining to violations of a driver or vehicle out-of-service order must
be kept for a period of at least ten years; and
(3) the driver's record pertaining to felony convictions in the commission of which a motor
vehicle was used, to the alcohol-related offenses and licensing actions listed in section 169A.03,
subdivisions 20 and 21 , to violations of section 169.09, to violations of section 169A.31, and to
violations of section 171.24, subdivision 5, must be retained permanently.
    Subd. 3a. Record destroyed when order rescinded. Notwithstanding subdivision 3 or
section 138.163, when an order for revocation, suspension, or cancellation of a driver's license
or disqualification of a driver from operating a commercial motor vehicle is rescinded and all
rights of appeal have been exhausted or have expired, the commissioner shall remove the record
of that revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification from the computer records that are
disclosed to persons or agencies outside the Driver and Vehicle Services Division, Department
of Public Safety.
    Subd. 3b. Record of improper suspension destroyed. Notwithstanding subdivision 3 or
section 138.163, when an order for suspension of a driver's license issued pursuant to section
171.186 is rescinded because the license was improperly suspended and all rights of appeal have
been exhausted or have expired, the commissioner shall remove the record of that suspension
from the computer records that are disclosed to persons or agencies outside the Driver and Vehicle
Services Division of the Department of Public Safety.
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1976 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 5. Donor document. The department shall file all donor documents received by it, and
in connection therewith maintain convenient records in order that donor status shall be readily
ascertainable. On request of any interested party upon or after the donor's death, the department
shall produce the donor document for examination.
    Subd. 6. Certain convictions not recorded. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), the
department shall not keep on the record of a driver any conviction for a violation of a speed limit
of 55 or 60 miles per hour unless the violation consisted of a speed greater than ten miles per
hour in excess of a 55 miles per hour speed limit, or more than five miles per hour in excess
of a 60 miles per hour speed limit.
(b) This subdivision does not apply to (1) a violation that occurs in a commercial motor
vehicle, or (2) a violation committed by a holder of a class A, B, or C commercial driver's
license, without regard to whether the violation was committed in a commercial motor vehicle or
another vehicle.
    Subd. 7. Privacy of data. (a) Data on individuals provided to obtain a driver's license or
Minnesota identification card shall be treated as provided by United States Code, title 18, section
2721, as in effect on May 23, 2005, and shall be disclosed as required or permitted by that section.
(b) An applicant for a driver's license or a Minnesota identification card may consent, in
writing, to the commissioner to disclose the applicant's personal information exempted by
United States Code, title 18, section 2721, to any person who makes a request for the personal
information. If the applicant so authorizes disclosures, the commissioner shall implement the
request and the information may be used.
(c) If authorized by an applicant for a driver's license or a Minnesota identification card,
as indicated in paragraph (b), the applicant's personal information may be used, rented, or sold
solely for bulk distribution by organizations for business purposes, including surveys, marketing,
or solicitation.
(d) An applicant for a driver's license, instruction permit, or Minnesota identification card
may request that the applicant's residence address be classified as "private data on individuals," as
defined in section 13.02, subdivision 12. The commissioner shall grant the classification on receipt
of a signed statement by the individual that the classification is required for the safety of the
applicant or the applicant's family, if the statement also provides a valid, existing address where
the applicant consents to receive service of process. The commissioner shall use the service for
process mailing address in place of the residence address in all documents and notices pertaining to
the driver's license, instruction permit, or Minnesota identification card. The residence address and
any information provided in the classification request, other than the mailing address, are private
data on individuals and may be provided to requesting law enforcement agencies, probation and
parole agencies, and public authorities, as defined in section 518A.26, subdivision 18.
    Subd. 7a. Disclosure of personal information. The commissioner shall disclose personal
information where the use is related to the operation of a motor vehicle or to public safety. The
use of personal information is related to public safety if it concerns the physical safety or security
of drivers, vehicles, pedestrians, or property. The commissioner may refuse to disclose data under
this subdivision when the commissioner concludes that the requester is likely to use the data for
illegal, improper, or noninvestigative purposes.
    Subd. 8.[Repealed, 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 48]
    Subd. 9. Driving record disclosure to law enforcement. The commissioner shall also
furnish driving records, without charge, to chiefs of police, county sheriffs, prosecuting attorneys,
and other law enforcement agencies with the power to arrest.
History: (2720-144i) 1939 c 401 s 12; 1943 c 610 s 3; 1967 c 205 s 1; 1969 c 871 s 2; 1975
c 393 s 2; 1986 c 444; 1986 c 454 s 24; 1988 c 670 s 10; 1989 c 307 s 24; 1990 c 461 s 2;
1993 c 266 s 25; 1993 c 326 art 11 s 3,4; 1994 c 501 s 4-6; 1994 c 615 s 19; 1994 c 618 art 1 s
25; 1995 c 257 art 1 s 10; 1995 c 259 art 1 s 37; 1996 c 440 art 1 s 43,44; 1996 c 455 art 1 s
9; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 53; 1998 c 371 s 9; 1998 c 388 s 19; 1999 c 139 art 4 s 2; 2000 c 478 art 2 s
7; 2002 c 368 s 2; 2004 c 283 s 11,15; 2005 c 163 s 78; 2005 c 164 s 29; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s
68,69; 1Sp2005 c 7 s 28; 2007 c 54 art 3 s 3

171.121 USE OF ANOTHER'S RESIDENCE ADDRESS.
A person may notify the commissioner in writing to the effect that the person (1) is the owner
of a residence, and (2) does not consent to have that residence address identified on any driver's
license or identification card or driving record of the department as the residence address or
permanent mailing address of any person named in the notice. The notice may not name a spouse
of the notifying person. Upon receiving the notice the commissioner shall not issue any license or
identification card under this chapter, or accept an application for a license or identification card
under this chapter, that lists the residence address identified in the notice as the residence address
or permanent mailing address of any person named in the notice.
History: 1996 c 356 s 1

171.13 EXAMINATION.
    Subdivision 1. Examination subjects and locations; provisions for color blindness,
disabled veterans. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the commissioner shall
examine each applicant for a driver's license by such agency as the commissioner directs. This
examination must include a test of applicant's eyesight; ability to read and understand highway
signs regulating, warning, and directing traffic; knowledge of traffic laws; knowledge of the
effects of alcohol and drugs on a driver's ability to operate a motor vehicle safely and legally, and
of the legal penalties and financial consequences resulting from violations of laws prohibiting
the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; knowledge of
railroad grade crossing safety; knowledge of slow-moving vehicle safety; knowledge of traffic
laws related to bicycles; an actual demonstration of ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable
control in the operation of a motor vehicle; and other physical and mental examinations as the
commissioner finds necessary to determine the applicant's fitness to operate a motor vehicle safely
upon the highways, provided, further however, no driver's license shall be denied an applicant
on the exclusive grounds that the applicant's eyesight is deficient in color perception. Provided,
however, that war veterans operating motor vehicles especially equipped for disabled persons,
shall, if otherwise entitled to a license, be granted such license. The commissioner shall make
provision for giving these examinations either in the county where the applicant resides or at a
place adjacent thereto reasonably convenient to the applicant.
    Subd. 1a. Waiver when license issued by another jurisdiction. (a) The commissioner may
waive the requirement that the applicant demonstrate ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable
control in the operation of a motor vehicle on determining that the applicant possesses a valid
driver's license issued by a jurisdiction that requires a comparable demonstration for license
issuance.
(b) For purposes of this subdivision, "jurisdiction" includes, but is not limited to, both the
active and reserve components of any branch or unit of the United States armed forces, and "valid
driver's license" includes any driver's license that is recognized by that branch or unit as currently
being valid, or as having been valid at the time of the applicant's separation or discharge from
the military within a period of time deemed reasonable and fair by the commissioner, up to and
including one year past the date of the applicant's separation or discharge.
    Subd. 1b. Driver's manual; alcohol consumption. (a) The commissioner shall include in
each subsequent edition of the driver's manual published by the department a chapter relating to:
(1) the effect of alcohol consumption on highway safety and on the ability of drivers to
safely operate motor vehicles;
(2) a summary of the laws of Minnesota on operating a motor vehicle while under the
influence of alcohol or a controlled substance; and
(3) the legal penalties and financial consequences resulting from violations of laws
prohibiting the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
(b) This chapter shall also include information on the dangers of driving at alcohol
concentration levels below the legal limit for alcohol concentration, and specifically state that:
(1) there is no "safe" level or amount of alcohol that an individual can assume will not impair
one's driving performance or increase the risk of a crash;
(2) a driver may be convicted of driving while impaired whether or not the driver's alcohol
concentration exceeds the legal limit for alcohol concentration; and
(3) a person under the legal drinking age may be convicted of illegally consuming alcohol if
found to have consumed any amount of alcohol, and if that person was driving during or after the
consumption of alcohol is subject to driver's license suspension.
    Subd. 1c. Driver's manual; fleeing from peace officer. The commissioner shall include
in each edition of the driver's manual published by the department a section relating to the
criminal sanctions and forfeiture provisions applicable to persons who flee a peace officer in a
motor vehicle.
    Subd. 1d. Driver's manual; railroad crossing safety. The commissioner shall include
in each edition of the driver's manual published by the department a section relating to safe
operation of vehicles at railroad grade crossings.
    Subd. 1e. Slow-moving vehicle. The commissioner shall include in each examination
under subdivision 1 an examination of the applicant's knowledge of highway safety with
respect to approaching, following, and passing slow-moving vehicles and the significance of
the slow-moving vehicle emblem.
    Subd. 1f. Driver's manual; bicycle traffic. The commissioner shall include in each edition
of the driver's manual published by the department after August 1, 1995, a section relating to
bicycle traffic laws, including any changes in the law which affect bicycle traffic.
    Subd. 1g. Driver's manual; crosswalk right-of-way. The commissioner shall include in
each edition of the driver's manual published by the department after August 1, 1996, a section
relating to the circumstances under which a driver must stop to yield the right-of-way to a
pedestrian in a crosswalk and the penalties for failure to yield.
    Subd. 1h. Driver's manual; organ and tissue donation. The commissioner shall include in
each edition of the driver's manual published by the department after August 1, 2002, a section
that includes information on the shortage of organs and tissues for transplant, basic facts about
donation, use of the driver's license as an indication of donation intent, and the importance of
informing family members of the driver's decision.
    Subd. 2. Examination upon renewal. (a) The department shall issue a driver's license
upon renewal:
(1) when the applicant has passed an examination consisting of a screening of the applicant's
eyesight since the last previous license renewal or issuance;
(2) if applicable, when an applicant has passed a written examination since the last previous
license renewal or issuance and after receiving a warning letter or attending a preliminary hearing
as a habitual violator, within the meaning of rules adopted by the commissioner; and
(3) if applicable, when an applicant has passed a road examination since the last previous
license renewal or issuance and after having had driving privileges suspended as a habitual
violator, within the meaning of rules adopted by the commissioner.
(b) A screening of eyesight required by this subdivision does not constitute the practice of
optometry as defined in section 148.56.
(c) The commissioner may adopt rules to administer this subdivision.
    Subd. 3. Examination of licensed driver. The commissioner may require an examination
by such agency as the commissioner directs of any licensed driver, to determine incompetency,
physical or mental disability or disease, or any other condition which might affect the driver from
exercising reasonable and ordinary control over a motor vehicle, but no examination shall be
required only for the reason that any licensed driver has attained a certain age. If as a result of
the examination the commissioner believes that the driver is an unsafe person to operate a motor
vehicle upon the public highways, the commissioner may cancel the driver's license of the person.
The commissioner shall give the person written notice of the cancellation.
    Subd. 4. Cancellation for failure to submit to examination. If a licensee does not submit
to any examination required under the provisions of subdivision 3, the commissioner may cancel
the driver's license of the licensee. If such license is canceled, the licensee shall immediately
surrender to the department all driver's license certificates in possession.
    Subd. 5. Examination fee for vehicle endorsement. Any person applying to secure a
school bus, tank vehicle, passenger, double-trailer or triple-trailer, or hazardous materials vehicle
endorsement on the person's driver's license shall pay a $2.50 examination fee at the place
of application.
    Subd. 6. Initial motorcycle endorsement fee. A person applying for an initial motorcycle
endorsement on a driver's license shall pay at the place of examination a total fee of $21, which
includes the examination fee and endorsement fee, but does not include the fee for a duplicate
driver's license prescribed in section 171.06, subdivision 2. Of this amount, $11 must be credited
as provided in section 171.06, subdivision 2a, paragraph (a), clause (1), $2.50 must be credited
to the driver services operating account in the special revenue fund specified under section
299A.705, and the remainder must be credited to the general fund.
    Subd. 7. Repeat examination fee. (a) A fee of $10 must be paid by an individual to take a
third and any subsequent knowledge test administered by the department if the individual has
failed two previous consecutive knowledge tests on the subject.
(b) A fee of $20 must be paid by an individual to take a third and any subsequent skills or
road test administered by the department if the individual has previously failed two consecutive
skill or road tests in a specified class of motor vehicle.
(c) All fees received under this subdivision must be paid into the state treasury and credited to
the driver services operating account in the special revenue fund specified under section 299A.705.
History: 1939 c 401 s 13; 1947 c 479 s 1; 1949 c 128 s 1; 1971 c 644 s 13; 1971 c 846 s 1;
1973 c 698 s 5; 1981 c 357 s 64; 1983 c 53 s 1; 1986 c 330 s 2; 1986 c 444; 1988 c 712 s 1; 1989
c 307 s 25; 1991 c 298 art 2 s 3,4; art 7 s 4; 1993 c 142 s 3; 1993 c 187 s 20,21; 1993 c 347 s 13;
1995 c 72 s 3,4; 1995 c 104 s 2,3; 1996 c 333 s 2; 1997 c 159 art 2 s 33,34; 2002 c 305 s 2; 2002
c 371 art 1 s 59; 2005 c 53 s 1; 2005 c 56 s 1; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 40,41; art 3 s 70

171.131 PHYSICIAN REPORTING TO COMMISSIONER.
    Subdivision 1. Voluntary reporting by physicians. Any physician who diagnoses a physical
or mental condition which in the physician's judgment will significantly impair the person's ability
to operate safely a motor vehicle may voluntarily report the person's name and other information
relevant to the condition to the commissioner. The commissioner, upon receiving the report, shall
require the person so reported to be examined as provided in section 171.13, subdivision 3.
    Subd. 2. Physicians immune from liability. Any physician reporting in good faith and
exercising due care shall have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, that otherwise might
result by reason of actions pursuant to this section. No cause of action may be brought against
any physician for not making a report pursuant to this section.
History: 1982 c 479 s 1; 1983 c 216 art 1 s 32; 1986 c 444

171.14 CANCELLATION.
The commissioner shall have authority to cancel any driver's license upon determination
that the licensee was not entitled to the issuance thereof hereunder, or that the licensee failed to
give the required or correct information in the application, or committed any fraud or deceit in
making such application. The commissioner may also cancel the driver's license of any person
who, at the time of the cancellation, would not have been entitled to receive a license under the
provisions of section 171.04.
History: (2720-144k) 1939 c 401 s 14; 1959 c 506 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1989 c 307 s 26

171.15 NONRESIDENT'S DRIVING PRIVILEGE.
    Subdivision 1. Suspension or revocation. (a) The privilege of driving a motor vehicle on
the highways of this state given to a nonresident hereunder shall be subject to the suspension or
revocation by the commissioner in like manner and for like cause as a driver's license issued
hereunder may be suspended or revoked.
(b) The commissioner is further authorized, upon receiving a record of conviction in this
state of a nonresident driver of a motor vehicle of any offense under the motor vehicle laws of this
state, to forward a certified copy of such record to the motor vehicle administrator in the state
wherein the person so convicted is a resident.
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1986 c 454 s 37]
History: (2720-145) 1939 c 401 s 15; 1978 c 783 s 6

171.16 COURT MAY RECOMMEND SUSPENSION.
    Subdivision 1. Court to report to commissioner. Every court having jurisdiction over
offenses committed under any law of this state or ordinance of a political subdivision regulating
the operation of motor vehicles, shall forward to the department, within ten days, a record of the
conviction of any person in the court for a violation of any laws or ordinances, except parking
violations and defective vehicle equipment or vehicle size or weight violations.
    Subd. 2. Commissioner shall suspend. The court may recommend the suspension of the
driver's license of the person so convicted, and the commissioner shall suspend such license as
recommended by the court, without a hearing as provided herein.
    Subd. 3. Suspension for failure to pay fine. When any court reports to the commissioner
that a person: (1) has been convicted of violating a law of this state or an ordinance of a political
subdivision which regulates the operation or parking of motor vehicles, (2) has been sentenced to
the payment of a fine or had a surcharge levied against that person, or sentenced to a fine upon
which a surcharge was levied, and (3) has refused or failed to comply with that sentence or to pay
the surcharge, notwithstanding the fact that the court has determined that the person has the ability
to pay the fine or surcharge, the commissioner shall suspend the driver's license of such person
for 30 days for a refusal or failure to pay or until notified by the court that the fine or surcharge,
or both if a fine and surcharge were not paid, has been paid.
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1973 c 698 s 8]
    Subd. 5. Juvenile court. When any judge of a juvenile court, or any of its duly authorized
agents, shall determine formally or informally that any person under the age of 18 years has
violated any of the provisions of any law of this state, or ordinances of political subdivisions
thereof, regulating the operation of motor vehicles on streets and highways, except parking
violations, and except traffic offenses involving a violation of section 169A.20 that must be
reported under section 171.17, the judge, or duly authorized agent, shall immediately report the
determination to the department and may recommend the suspension of the person's license, and
the commissioner is hereby authorized to suspend the license, without a hearing.
    Subd. 6. Notice of suspension. A suspension under this section is subject to the notice
requirements of section 171.18, subdivision 2.
History: (2720-145a) 1939 c 401 s 16, except par (c); 1969 c 946 s 2; Ex1971 c 27 s 24;
1973 c 421 s 4,5; 1981 c 341 s 3; 1983 c 359 s 18; 1984 c 622 s 16; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 123 s 2;
1989 c 307 s 27; 1996 c 346 s 5; 1998 c 367 art 8 s 3; 1998 c 388 s 20; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7

171.162 COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, RECORDS CHECK.
As required by Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, section 383.73, before issuing a class
A, class B, or class C commercial driver's license, the department shall request the applicant's
complete driving record from all states where the applicant was previously licensed over the last
ten years to operate any type of motor vehicle.
History: 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 71

171.165 COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, DISQUALIFICATION.
    Subdivision 1. Federal standards. Subject to section 171.166, the commissioner shall
disqualify a person from operating commercial motor vehicles in accordance with the driver
disqualifications and penalties in Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 383, subpart D and
Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, section 384.219.
    Subd. 2. Implied consent revocation. The commissioner shall disqualify a person from
operating commercial motor vehicles for a revocation under section 169A.52 or a statute or
ordinance from another state or jurisdiction in conformity with it, in accordance with the driver
disqualifications and penalties in Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 383, subpart D.
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 108]
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 108]
    Subd. 4a.[Repealed, 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 108]
    Subd. 4b.[Repealed, 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 108]
    Subd. 5. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules to administer this section. The rules
must include procedures for issuing class D licenses to persons who have been disqualified
from operating commercial motor vehicles but whose drivers' licenses have not otherwise been
revoked, suspended, canceled, or denied.
    Subd. 6. Exemptions. (a) A disqualification shall not be imposed under this section on
a recreational vehicle operator, farmer, or authorized emergency vehicle operator operating a
commercial motor vehicle within the scope of section 171.02, subdivision 2, paragraph (b).
(b) A conviction for a violation that occurred before August 1, 2005, while operating a vehicle
that is not a commercial motor vehicle shall not be counted as a first or subsequent violation for
purposes of determining the period for which a driver must be disqualified under this section.
    Subd. 7. Scope. This section applies to offenses committed, and revocations imposed for
incidents occurring, on or after January 1, 1990.
History: 1989 c 307 s 28; 1991 c 333 s 29; 1994 c 501 s 7; 1996 c 275 s 10; 1999 c 93 s 1;
2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2002 c 371 art 1 s 60; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 72-74

171.166 REVIEW OF DISQUALIFICATION.
    Subdivision 1. Review of convictions. The commissioner shall review court records of
convictions subject to section 171.165, other than a violation of section 169A.20, 169A.31, or
sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, if the commissioner has reasonable cause to believe the information
is pertinent to the disqualification of an individual.
    Subd. 2. Notification to commercial driver's license holder or applicant. The
commissioner shall notify the applicant or license holder and the individual who is the subject of
a review, in writing, of the results of the review. The commissioner shall notify the individual
reviewed if the information contained in the review could cause license disqualification.
    Subd. 3. Reconsideration of license disqualification. (a) Within 30 days after receiving
notice of possible disqualification under subdivision 2, the individual who is the subject of the
review may request reconsideration of the notice of possible disqualification. The individual
must submit the request for reconsideration to the commissioner in writing. The individual must
present information to show that the information the commissioner relied upon is incorrect or not
applicable for disqualification of the individual being reviewed.
(b) The commissioner may set aside the disqualification if the commissioner finds that
the information the commissioner relied upon is incorrect or not applicable for disqualification
of the individual being reviewed.
(c) The commissioner shall notify the applicant or license holder in writing of the
reconsideration decision within 15 working days after receiving the request for reconsideration.
The disqualification takes effect 20 days after the person receives the reconsideration decision.
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1995 c 56 s 2]
History: 1989 c 307 s 29; 1995 c 56 s 1; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7

171.167 NOTICE TO COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE INFORMATION SYSTEM.
The department shall participate fully in the commercial driver's license information system
established under the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 at United States Code,
title 49, section 31309.
History: 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 75

171.17 REVOCATION.
    Subdivision 1. Offenses. (a) The department shall immediately revoke the license of a driver
upon receiving a record of the driver's conviction of:
(1) manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle or criminal vehicular
homicide or injury under section 609.21;
(2) a violation of section 169A.20 or 609.487;
(3) a felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle was used;
(4) failure to stop and disclose identity and render aid, as required under section 169.09, in
the event of a motor vehicle accident, resulting in the death or personal injury of another;
(5) perjury or the making of a false affidavit or statement to the department under any law
relating to the ownership or operation of a motor vehicle;
(6) except as this section otherwise provides, three charges of violating within a period of
12 months any of the provisions of chapter 169 or of the rules or municipal ordinances enacted
in conformance with chapter 169, for which the accused may be punished upon conviction by
imprisonment;
(7) two or more violations, within five years, of the misdemeanor offense described in
section 169.444, subdivision 2, paragraph (a);
(8) the gross misdemeanor offense described in section 169.444, subdivision 2, paragraph (b);
(9) an offense in another state that, if committed in this state, would be grounds for revoking
the driver's license; or
(10) a violation of an applicable speed limit by a person driving in excess of 100 miles per
hour. The person's license must be revoked for six months for a violation of this clause, or for a
longer minimum period of time applicable under section 169A.53, 169A.54, or 171.174.
(b) The department shall immediately revoke the school bus endorsement of a driver upon
receiving a record of the driver's conviction of the misdemeanor offense described in section
169.443, subdivision 7.
    Subd. 2. Offenses by juveniles. When a juvenile court judge or duly authorized agent
determines under a proceeding held under chapter 260 that a person under the age of 18 years has
committed an offense defined in this section, the judge or authorized agent shall immediately
report this determination to the department, and the commissioner shall immediately revoke
the person's license.
    Subd. 3. Notice. Upon revoking a license under this chapter, the department shall
immediately notify the licensee, in writing, by depositing in the United States post office a notice
addressed to the licensee at the licensee's last known address, with postage prepaid.
History: (2720-145b) 1939 c 401 s 17; 1951 c 483 s 1; 1961 c 32 s 1; Ex1971 c 27 s 25;
1981 c 363 s 39; 1985 c 248 s 70; 1985 c 291 s 21; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 123 s 3; 1991 c 270 s 2;
1991 c 277 s 14; 1993 c 78 s 5; 1998 c 388 s 21,22; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 76

171.171 SUSPENSION; ILLEGAL PURCHASE OF ALCOHOL OR TOBACCO.
The commissioner shall suspend for a period of 90 days the license of a person who:
(1) is under the age of 21 years and is convicted of purchasing or attempting to purchase
an alcoholic beverage in violation of section 340A.503 if the person used a license, Minnesota
identification card, or any type of false identification to purchase or attempt to purchase the
alcoholic beverage;
(2) is convicted under section 171.22, subdivision 1, clause (2), or 340A.503, subdivision
2 , clause (3), of lending or knowingly permitting a person under the age of 21 years to use the
person's license, Minnesota identification card, or other type of identification to purchase or
attempt to purchase an alcoholic beverage;
(3) is under the age of 18 years and is found by a court to have committed a petty
misdemeanor under section 609.685, subdivision 3, if the person used a license, Minnesota
identification card, or any type of false identification to purchase or attempt to purchase the
tobacco product; or
(4) is convicted under section 171.22, subdivision 1, clause (2), of lending or knowingly
permitting a person under the age of 18 years to use the person's license, Minnesota identification
card, or other type of identification to purchase or attempt to purchase a tobacco product.
History: 1985 c 305 art 1 s 1; 1989 c 301 s 9; 1997 c 227 s 1; 1998 c 388 s 23; 2000 c 472 s 1

171.172 REVOCATION; CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE OFFENSE.
The commissioner of public safety shall revoke the license of any person convicted of or any
juvenile adjudicated for a controlled substance offense if the court has notified the commissioner
of a determination made under section 152.0271 or 260B.198, subdivision 1. The period of
revocation shall be for the applicable time period specified in section 152.0271. If the person does
not have a license or if the person's license is suspended or revoked at the time of the conviction
or adjudication, the commissioner shall, upon the person's application for license issuance or
reinstatement, delay the issuance or reinstatement of the person's license for the applicable time
period specified in section 152.0271.
History: 1993 c 347 s 14; 1998 c 388 s 24; 1999 c 139 art 4 s 2

171.173 SUSPENSION; UNDERAGE DRINKING OFFENSE.
The commissioner of public safety shall suspend the license of any person convicted of or
any juvenile adjudicated for an offense under section 340A.503, subdivision 1, paragraph (a),
clause (2), if the court has notified the commissioner of a determination made under section
169A.33, subdivision 4. The period of suspension shall be for the applicable period specified in
section 169A.33. If the person does not have a license or if the person's license is suspended or
revoked at the time of the conviction or adjudication, the commissioner shall, upon the person's
application for license issuance or reinstatement, delay the issuance or reinstatement of the
person's license for the applicable time period specified in section 169A.33. Upon receipt of the
court's order, the commissioner is authorized to take the licensing action without a hearing.
History: 1993 c 347 s 15; 1998 c 388 s 25; 2001 c 7 s 44

171.174 REVOCATION; FLEEING PEACE OFFICER OFFENSE.
The commissioner of public safety shall revoke the license of a person upon receipt of a
certificate of conviction showing that the person has in a motor vehicle violated section 609.487,
subdivision 3 or 4, or an ordinance in conformity with those subdivisions. The commissioner
shall revoke the license as follows:
(1) for the first offense under section 609.487, subdivision 3, for not less than one year;
(2) for the second offense or subsequent offenses under section 609.487, subdivision 3,
for not less than three years;
(3) for an offense under section 609.487, subdivision 4, clause (a), for not less than ten years;
(4) for an offense under section 609.487, subdivision 4, clause (b), for not less than seven
years; and
(5) for an offense under section 609.487, subdivision 4, clause (c), for not less than five years.
A limited license under section 171.30 may not be issued for one-half of the revocation period
specified in clauses (1) to (5) and after that period is over only upon and as recommended
by the adjudicating court.
History: 1996 c 408 art 3 s 10; 1998 c 388 s 26

171.175 SUSPENSION; THEFT OF GASOLINE OFFENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Theft of gasoline. The commissioner of public safety shall suspend for 30
days the license of any person convicted or juvenile adjudicated delinquent for theft of gasoline
under section 609.52, subdivision 2, clause (1).
    Subd. 2. Definition. For the purposes of this section, "gasoline" has the meaning given it
in section 296A.01, subdivision 23.
History: 2005 c 136 art 17 s 3

171.176 REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION; SCHOOL ATTENDANCE.
The commissioner of public safety may not link or condition issuing, suspending, or
revoking a person's license to operate a motor vehicle to attendance at a secondary school.
History: 1Sp2005 c 5 art 2 s 79

171.18 SUSPENSION.
    Subdivision 1. Offenses. (a) The commissioner may suspend the license of a driver without
preliminary hearing upon a showing by department records or other sufficient evidence that
the licensee:
(1) has committed an offense for which mandatory revocation of license is required upon
conviction;
(2) has been convicted by a court for violating a provision of chapter 169 or an ordinance
regulating traffic, other than a conviction for a petty misdemeanor, and department records show
that the violation contributed in causing an accident resulting in the death or personal injury of
another, or serious property damage;
(3) is an habitually reckless or negligent driver of a motor vehicle;
(4) is an habitual violator of the traffic laws;
(5) is incompetent to drive a motor vehicle as determined in a judicial proceeding;
(6) has permitted an unlawful or fraudulent use of the license;
(7) has committed an offense in another state that, if committed in this state, would be
grounds for suspension;
(8) has committed a violation of section 169.444, subdivision 2, paragraph (a), within five
years of a prior conviction under that section;
(9) has committed a violation of section 171.22, except that the commissioner may not
suspend a person's driver's license based solely on the fact that the person possessed a fictitious or
fraudulently altered Minnesota identification card;
(10) has failed to appear in court as provided in section 169.92, subdivision 4;
(11) has failed to report a medical condition that, if reported, would have resulted in
cancellation of driving privileges;
(12) has been found to have committed an offense under section 169A.33; or
(13) has paid or attempted to pay a fee required under this chapter for a license or permit
by means of a dishonored check issued to the state or a driver's license agent, which must be
continued until the registrar determines or is informed by the agent that the dishonored check
has been paid in full.
However, an action taken by the commissioner under clause (2) or (5) must conform to the
recommendation of the court when made in connection with the prosecution of the licensee.
(b) The commissioner may not suspend the driver's license of an individual under paragraph
(a) who was convicted of a violation of section 171.24, subdivision 1, whose license was under
suspension at the time solely because of the individual's failure to appear in court or failure to
pay a fine.
    Subd. 2. Notice. The department may not suspend a driver's license until 14 days after the
date on which the department mails to the licensee a written notice of the department's intent to
suspend the license, addressed to the licensee at the licensee's last known address, with postage
prepaid. Suspension of a driver's license shall take effect immediately upon a finding by the
commissioner, based on department records or other sufficient evidence, that a delay in the
effectiveness of the suspension poses a threat to public safety. The department shall immediately
notify the licensee of the suspension by mail, addressed to the licensee's last known address,
with postage prepaid.
    Subd. 3. Hearing. (a) The licensee may request, in writing, a hearing. The department shall
afford the requesting licensee an opportunity for a hearing within 20 days after receipt of the
request in the county where the licensee resides, unless the department and the licensee agree that
the hearing may be held in some other county.
(b) For the hearing, the commissioner may administer oaths and issue subpoenas for the
attendance of witnesses and the production of relevant books and papers, and may require a
reexamination of the licensee.
(c) Following the hearing, the department shall either rescind its order of suspension or, for
good cause shown, may extend the suspension of the license or revoke the license.
(d) The department shall not suspend a license for a period of more than one year.
History: (2720-145c) 1939 c 401 s 18; 1955 c 713 s 1; 1973 c 698 s 6; 1978 c 783 s 7;
1986 c 444; 1989 c 307 s 30; 1990 c 510 s 8; 1991 c 277 s 15; 1994 c 636 art 2 s 4; 1Sp1995
c 3 art 2 s 41; 1996 c 346 s 6,7; 1996 c 442 s 21; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s
77; 2006 c 260 art 2 s 17

171.181 RESIDENT DRIVING PRIVILEGE.
    Subdivision 1. Foreign state conviction. (a) On revoking or suspending the driver's license
of a Minnesota resident as a result of a foreign state conviction, the commissioner shall notify that
foreign state when the driver's license is reinstated or a new license issued.
(b) For the purposes of this section, "foreign state" means a state as defined in section 171.01,
subdivision 47 , excluding the state of Minnesota.
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1983 c 127 s 2]
History: 1978 c 783 s 8; 1986 c 444; 2005 c 10 art 1 s 32

171.182 SUSPENSION; UNINSURED VEHICLE.
    Subdivision 1. Definition. For the purposes of sections 171.182 to 171.184, the term
"judgment" means a judgment which has become final by expiration without appeal within the
time which an appeal might have been perfected, or by final affirmation on appeal, rendered by a
court of competent jurisdiction, including county, municipal, or conciliation court, of any state of
the United States, upon a claim for relief arising out of ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor
vehicle, for damages, including damages for care and loss of services, because of bodily injury to
or death of a person, or for damages because of injury to or destruction of property, including the
loss of use thereof, or upon a claim for relief on an agreement of settlement for the damages.
    Subd. 2. Copy of judgment to commissioner. If a person fails within 30 days to satisfy
a judgment, the court administrator, upon affidavit of the judgment creditor that the judgment
has not been satisfied, shall immediately forward to the commissioner a certified copy of the
judgment and affidavit of identification.
If the judgment debtor named in a certified copy of a judgment reported to the commissioner
is a nonresident, the commissioner shall transmit a certified copy of the judgment to the official in
charge of the issuance of drivers' licenses of the state of which the judgment debtor is a resident.
    Subd. 3. Conditions. (a) The commissioner, upon receipt of a certified copy of a judgment,
shall suspend the license or the nonresident's operating privilege of the person against whom
judgment was rendered if:
(1) at the time of the accident the person did not maintain the reparation security required by
section 65B.48; and
(2) the judgment has not been satisfied.
(b) Suspensions under this section are subject to the notice requirements of section 171.18,
subdivision 2 .
    Subd. 4. Duration. A license or nonresident's operating privilege shall remain suspended and
shall not be renewed, nor shall a license be thereafter issued to the person until every judgment is
satisfied in full, or has expired, or to the extent hereinafter provided.
    Subd. 5. Affidavit of insurance coverage. A person whose license or nonresident's operating
privileges has been suspended or has become subject to suspension because of an unsatisfied
judgment may be relieved of the suspension by filing with the commissioner an affidavit stating
that at the time of the accident giving rise to the judgment the person was insured, that the
insurer is liable for the judgment, and the reason, if known, why the judgment has not been
paid. The affidavit shall be accompanied by a copy of the insurance policy and other documents
the commissioner requires to show that the loss, injury or damage giving rise to the judgment
was covered by the policy. If satisfied that the insurer was authorized to issue the policy and is
liable for the judgment, at least to the extent and for the amounts required in this chapter, the
commissioner shall not suspend the license, or reinstate the license if already suspended.
History: 1982 c 598 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82; 1996 c 346 s 8

171.183 SATISFACTION OF JUDGMENT.
    Subdivision 1. Requirements. For the purposes of sections 171.182 to 171.184, a judgment
is satisfied if:
(1) $30,000 has been credited upon any judgment or judgments rendered in excess of that
amount because of bodily injury to or death of one person as the result of any one accident;
(2) subject to the limit of $30,000 because of bodily injury to or death of one person, the sum
of $60,000 has been credited upon any judgment or judgments rendered in excess of that amount
because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons as the result of any one accident; or
(3) $10,000 has been credited upon any judgment or judgments rendered in excess of that
amount because of damage to or destruction of property of others as a result of any one accident.
    Subd. 2. Other payments credited. Payments made in settlement of claims because of
bodily injury, death or property damage arising from a motor vehicle accident shall be credited in
reduction of the amounts provided for in this section.
History: 1982 c 598 s 2; 1Sp2001 c 8 art 2 s 47

171.184 INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS.
    Subdivision 1. Authorization. A judgment debtor upon due notice to the judgment creditor
may apply to the court in which the judgment was rendered for the privilege of paying the
judgment in installments. The court, in its discretion and without prejudice to any other legal
remedies which the judgment creditor may have, may so order and fix the amounts and times of
payments of the installments.
    Subd. 2. Stay of suspension. The commissioner shall not suspend a license or a nonresident's
operating privilege if the judgment debtor gives proof of maintaining the reparation security
required by section 65B.48, obtains an order or enters into a written agreement with the judgment
creditor permitting the payment of the judgment in installments, and does not default on the
payment of any installment.
    Subd. 3. Termination of stay. If the judgment debtor fails to pay any installment as specified
by an order or agreement, then upon notice of default, the commissioner shall forthwith suspend
the license, or nonresident's operating privilege, of the judgment debtor until the judgment
is satisfied.
History: 1982 c 598 s 3

171.185 [Repealed, 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 48]

171.186 SUSPENSION FOR NONPAYMENT OF SUPPORT; LIMITED LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Suspension. The commissioner shall suspend a person's driver's license or
operating privileges without a hearing upon receipt of a court order or notice from a public
authority responsible for child support enforcement that states that the driver is in arrears in
court-ordered child support or maintenance payments, or both, in an amount equal to or greater
than three times the obligor's total monthly support and maintenance payments, and is not in
compliance with a written payment agreement pursuant to section 518A.69 that is approved
by a court, a child support magistrate, or the public authority responsible for child support
enforcement, in accordance with section 518A.65.
    Subd. 2. Notice. Upon suspending a driver's license or operating privileges under this
section, the department shall immediately notify the licensee, in writing, by mailing a notice
addressed to the licensee at the licensee's last known address.
    Subd. 3. Duration. A license or operating privilege must remain suspended and may not
be reinstated, nor may a license be subsequently issued to the person, until the commissioner
receives notice from the court, a child support magistrate, or public authority responsible for child
support enforcement that the person is in compliance with all current orders of support or written
payment agreements pursuant to section 518A.69. A fee may not be assessed for reinstatement of
a license under this section unless the person whose license was suspended under this section
has obtained a limited license during the period of suspension.
    Subd. 4. Limited license. (a) Notwithstanding subdivision 3, the commissioner may issue
a limited license to a person whose license has been suspended under this section if the person
qualifies for a limited license under section 171.30.
(b) A limited license issued to a person under this subdivision must expire 90 days after
the date it is issued.
History: 1995 c 257 art 1 s 11; 1999 c 196 art 2 s 3,4; 2002 c 344 s 1-3; 2005 c 164 s
29; 1Sp2005 c 7 s 28

171.19 PETITION FOR COURT HEARING ON LICENSE REINSTATEMENT.
Any person whose driver's license has been refused, revoked, suspended, canceled, or
disqualified by the commissioner, except where the license is revoked or disqualified under section
169A.52 or 171.186, may file a petition for a hearing in the matter in the district court in the county
wherein such person shall reside and, in the case of a nonresident, in the district court in any
county, and such court is hereby vested with jurisdiction, and it shall be its duty, to set the matter
for hearing upon 15 days' written notice to the commissioner, and thereupon to take testimony and
examine into the facts of the case to determine whether the petitioner is entitled to a license or is
subject to revocation, suspension, cancellation, disqualification, or refusal of license, and shall
render judgment accordingly. The petition for hearing must either be filed within 180 days of the
effective date of the order of revocation, suspension, cancellation, disqualification, or refusal to
license or be filed before expiration of the withdrawal period, whichever occurs first. The petition
shall be heard by the court without a jury and may be heard in or out of term. The commissioner
may appear in person, or by agents or representatives, and may present evidence upon the hearing
by affidavit personally, by agents, or by representatives. The petitioner may present evidence by
affidavit, except that the petitioner must be present in person at such hearing for the purpose
of cross-examination. In the event the department shall be sustained in these proceedings, the
petitioner shall have no further right to make further petition to any court for the purpose of
obtaining a driver's license until after the expiration of one year after the date of such hearing.
History: (2720-145d) 1939 c 401 s 19; 1982 c 423 s 11; 1986 c 444; 1992 c 571 art 14 s 10;
1997 c 245 art 1 s 2; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 54; 1998 c 405 s 6; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7

171.20 MINNESOTA LICENSE REQUIRED; CONDITIONS, FEES.
    Subdivision 1.[Repealed, 1993 c 266 s 34]
    Subd. 2. Operation after revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification. (a)
A resident or nonresident whose driver's license or right or privilege to operate a motor vehicle
in this state has been suspended, revoked, or canceled, shall not operate a motor vehicle in this
state under license, permit, or registration certificate issued by any other jurisdiction or otherwise
during the suspension, or after the revocation until Minnesota driving privileges are reinstated.
(b) A resident or nonresident who has been disqualified from holding a commercial driver's
license or been denied the privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle in this state shall not
operate a commercial motor vehicle in this state under license, permit, or registration certificate
issued by any other jurisdiction or otherwise during the disqualification period until Minnesota
commercial driving privileges are reinstated.
    Subd. 3. Driver improvement clinic. The commissioner may require, before reissuing a
license which has been revoked or suspended, that the licensee complete a course of study at
an approved driver improvement clinic or, in the case of a licensee who is age 18 or younger,
a youth-oriented driver improvement clinic. The commissioner may not require the licensee to
complete such a course unless an approved driver improvement clinic or youth-oriented driver
improvement clinic is located within 35 miles of the licensee's residence. For purposes of this
section "an approved driver improvement clinic" means a clinic whose curriculum and mode of
instruction conform to standards promulgated by the commissioner.
    Subd. 4. Reinstatement fee. (a) Before the license is reinstated, (1) an individual whose
driver's license has been suspended under section 171.16, subdivisions 2 and 3; 171.175; 171.18;
or 171.182, or who has been disqualified from holding a commercial driver's license under section
171.165, and (2) an individual whose driver's license has been suspended under section 171.186
and who is not exempt from such a fee, must pay a fee of $20.
    (b) Before the license is reinstated, an individual whose license has been suspended under
sections 169.791 to 169.798 must pay a $20 reinstatement fee.
    (c) When fees are collected by a licensing agent appointed under section 171.061, a
handling charge is imposed in the amount specified under section 171.061, subdivision 4. The
reinstatement fee and surcharge must be deposited in an approved state depository as directed
under section 171.061, subdivision 4.
    (d) Reinstatement fees collected under paragraph (a) for suspensions under sections 171.16,
subdivision 3 , and 171.18, subdivision 1, clause (10), must be deposited in the special revenue
fund and are appropriated to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board for peace officer
training reimbursement to local units of government.
    (e) A suspension may be rescinded without fee for good cause.
History: (2720-145e) 1939 c 401 s 20; 1961 c 44 s 1; 1965 c 711 s 6; 1969 c 9 s 32; 1969
c 118 s 2; 1980 c 520 s 3; 1983 c 127 s 1; 1985 c 291 s 22; 1989 c 228 s 3; 1989 c 307 s 31;
1995 c 265 art 2 s 20; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 55; 1998 c 388 s 27; 1998 c 405 s 7; 2000 c 426 s 28; 2002
c 344 s 4; 1Sp2003 c 19 art 2 s 39; 2004 c 295 art 1 s 13; 2005 c 136 art 18 s 12; 1Sp2005 c
6 art 2 s 42; 2007 c 143 art 3 s 7

171.21 COPY OF RECORD AS EVIDENCE.
Copies of any of the files or records of the department certified by the commissioner as
being true copies shall be received in evidence in any court in this state with the same force
and effect as the originals.
History: (2720-145f) 1939 c 401 s 21

171.22 UNLAWFUL ACTS RELATING TO DRIVER'S LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Violations. With regard to any driver's license, including a commercial
driver's license, it shall be unlawful for any person:
(1) to display, cause or permit to be displayed, or have in possession, any fictitious or
fraudulently altered driver's license or Minnesota identification card;
(2) to lend the person's driver's license or Minnesota identification card to any other person
or knowingly permit the use thereof by another;
(3) to display or represent as one's own any driver's license or Minnesota identification card
not issued to that person;
(4) to use a fictitious name or date of birth to any police officer or in any application for a
driver's license or Minnesota identification card, or to knowingly make a false statement, or to
knowingly conceal a material fact, or otherwise commit a fraud in any such application;
(5) to alter any driver's license or Minnesota identification card;
(6) to take any part of the driver's license examination for another or to permit another to
take the examination for that person;
(7) to make a counterfeit driver's license or Minnesota identification card;
(8) to use the name and date of birth of another person to any police officer for the purpose of
falsely identifying oneself to the police officer; or
(9) to display as a valid driver's license any canceled, revoked, or suspended driver's license.
A person whose driving privileges have been withdrawn may display a driver's license only
for identification purposes.
    Subd. 2. Penalties. Any person who violates subdivision 1, clause (7) or (8), is guilty of a
gross misdemeanor. Any person who violates any other provision of subdivision 1 is guilty of
a misdemeanor.
History: (2720-145g) 1939 c 401 s 22; 1957 c 564 s 5; 1961 c 64 s 1; 1969 c 9 s 33; 1971
c 163 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1988 c 681 s 16; 1989 c 301 s 10; 1989 c 307 s 32; 1993 c 266 s 26;
1994 c 501 s 8; 1994 c 636 art 2 s 5

171.23 RENTING VEHICLE TO UNLICENSED DRIVER.
No person shall rent or lease a motor vehicle to any other person unless the latter person is
then duly licensed hereunder, or, in the case of a nonresident, then duly licensed under the law
of the state or country of residence, except a nonresident whose home state or country does
not require that a driver be licensed.
History: (2720-145i) 1939 c 401 s 24; 1986 c 444

171.24 VIOLATIONS; DRIVING WITHOUT VALID LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Driving after suspension; misdemeanor. Except as otherwise provided in
subdivision 5, a person is guilty of a misdemeanor if:
(1) the person's driver's license or driving privilege has been suspended;
(2) the person has been given notice of or reasonably should know of the suspension; and
(3) the person disobeys the order by operating in this state any motor vehicle, the operation
of which requires a driver's license, while the person's license or privilege is suspended.
    Subd. 2. Driving after revocation; misdemeanor. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor if:
(1) the person's driver's license or driving privilege has been revoked;
(2) the person has been given notice of or reasonably should know of the revocation; and
(3) the person disobeys the order by operating in this state any motor vehicle, the operation
of which requires a driver's license, while the person's license or privilege is revoked.
    Subd. 3. Driving after cancellation; misdemeanor. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor if:
(1) the person's driver's license or driving privilege has been canceled;
(2) the person has been given notice of or reasonably should know of the cancellation; and
(3) the person disobeys the order by operating in this state any motor vehicle, the operation
of which requires a driver's license, while the person's license or privilege is canceled.
    Subd. 4. Driving after disqualification; misdemeanor. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor
if the person:
(1) has been disqualified from holding a commercial driver's license or been denied the
privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle;
(2) has been given notice of or reasonably should know of the disqualification; and
(3) disobeys the order by operating in this state a commercial motor vehicle while the person
is disqualified to hold the license or privilege.
    Subd. 5. Gross misdemeanor. A person is guilty of a gross misdemeanor if:
(1) the person's driver's license or driving privilege has been canceled or denied under
section 171.04, subdivision 1, clause (10);
(2) the person has been given notice of or reasonably should know of the cancellation or
denial; and
(3) the person disobeys the order by operating in this state any motor vehicle, the operation
of which requires a driver's license, while the person's license or privilege is canceled or denied.
    Subd. 6. Responsibility for prosecution. The attorney in the jurisdiction in which the
violation occurred who is responsible for prosecution of misdemeanor violations of this section is
also responsible for prosecution of gross misdemeanor violations of this section.
    Subd. 7. Sufficiency of notice. (a) Notice of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or
disqualification is sufficient if personally served, or if mailed by first class mail to the person's last
known address or to the address listed on the person's driver's license. Notice is also sufficient
if the person was informed that revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification would
be imposed upon a condition occurring or failing to occur, and where the condition has in fact
occurred or failed to occur.
(b) It is not a defense that a person failed to file a change of address with the post office,
or failed to notify the Department of Public Safety of a change of name or address as required
under section 171.11.
History: (2720-144h, 2720-145j) 1939 c 401 s 23,25; 1943 c 331 s 3; 1947 c 479 s 2;
Ex1971 c 27 s 26; 1980 c 520 s 4; 1984 c 622 s 17; 1989 c 307 s 33; 1993 c 347 s 16; 1994 c 615
s 20; 1994 c 636 art 2 s 6; 1997 c 12 art 3 s 8; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 91

171.241 CHAPTER VIOLATIONS; MISDEMEANORS.
It is a misdemeanor for any person to willfully violate any of the provisions of this chapter
unless the violation is declared by any law to be a felony or gross misdemeanor, or the violation
is declared by a section of this chapter to be a misdemeanor.
History: 1984 c 622 s 18

171.245 [Repealed, 1978 c 727 s 11]

171.25 ENFORCEMENT; DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY.
The commissioner shall be charged with the responsibility for the administration and
execution of this chapter.
Any duties required of or powers conferred on the commissioner under the provisions of this
chapter may be done and performed or exercised by any of duly authorized agents.
History: (2720-145k, 2720-146) 1939 c 401 s 26,27; 1986 c 444

171.26 MONEY CREDITED TO FUNDS.
    Subdivision 1. Driver services operating account. All money received under this chapter
must be paid into the state treasury and credited to the driver services operating account in the
special revenue fund specified under sections 299A.705, except as provided in subdivision 2;
171.06, subdivision 2a; 171.07, subdivision 11, paragraph (g); 171.20, subdivision 4, paragraph
(d); and 171.29, subdivision 2, paragraph (b).
    Subd. 2. Trunk highway fund. (a) Notwithstanding subdivision 1 or any other provision in
this chapter to the contrary, for the four fiscal years from July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2009, a
portion of the money collected by the department under this chapter in each fiscal year must be
deposited in the trunk highway fund as follows:
(1) for fiscal year 2006, the first $833,000 collected;
(2) for fiscal year 2007, the first $1,523,000 collected;
(3) for fiscal year 2008, the first $1,565,000 collected; and
(4) for fiscal year 2009, the first $1,825,000 collected.
(b) This subdivision expires July 1, 2009.
History: (2720-146a) 1939 c 401 s 28; 1943 c 610 s 4; 1947 c 607 s 1; 1971 c 644 s 14;
1976 c 163 s 37; 1983 c 293 s 70; 1991 c 233 s 61; 1993 c 266 s 27; 1996 c 455 art 6 s 3;
2005 c 136 art 18 s 13; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 43

171.27 EXPIRATION OF LICENSE.
The expiration date for each driver's license, other than under-21 licenses, is the birthday
of the driver in the fourth year following the date of issuance of the license. The birthday of the
driver shall be as indicated on the application for a driver's license. A license may be renewed on
or before expiration or within one year after expiration upon application, payment of the required
fee, and passing the examination required of all drivers for renewal. Driving privileges shall be
extended or renewed on or preceding the expiration date of an existing driver's license unless the
commissioner believes that the licensee is no longer qualified as a driver.
The expiration date for each under-21 license shall be the 21st birthday of the licensee. Upon
the licensee attaining the age of 21 and upon the application, payment of the required fee, and
passing the examination required of all drivers for renewal, a driver's license shall be issued unless
the commissioner determines that the licensee is no longer qualified as a driver.
The expiration date for each provisional license is two years after the date of application
for the provisional license.
Any valid Minnesota driver's license issued to a person then or subsequently on active duty
with the armed forces of the United States, or the person's spouse, shall continue in full force and
effect without requirement for renewal until 90 days after the date of the person's discharge from
such service, provided that a spouse's license must be renewed if the spouse is residing within
the state at the time the license expires or within 90 days after the spouse returns to Minnesota
and resides within the state.
History: (2720-146b) 1939 c 401 s 29; 1943 c 610 s 1; 1947 c 479 s 3; 1951 c 29 s 1; 1957
c 564 s 6; 1971 c 846 s 2; 1973 c 698 s 7; 1973 c 725 s 24; 1985 c 145 s 1; 1986 c 454 s 25;
1989 c 301 s 11; 1998 c 388 s 28

171.28 CITATION, DRIVER'S LICENSE LAW.
Sections 171.01 to 171.28 may be cited as the Driver's License Law.
History: 1939 c 401 s 30

171.29 REVOKED LICENSE; EXAMINATION FOR NEW LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Examination required. No person whose driver's license has been revoked
by reason of conviction, plea of guilty, or forfeiture of bail not vacated, under section 169.791,
169.797, or 171.17, or revoked under section 169.792 or 169A.52 shall be issued another
license unless and until that person shall have successfully passed an examination as required
by the commissioner of public safety. This subdivision does not apply to an applicant for early
reinstatement under section 169.792, subdivision 7a.
    Subd. 2. Reinstatement fees and surcharges allocated and appropriated. (a) An
individual whose driver's license has been revoked as provided in subdivision 1, except under
section 169A.52, 169A.54, or 609.21, must pay a $30 fee before the driver's license is reinstated.
(b) A person whose driver's license has been revoked as provided in subdivision 1 under
section 169A.52, 169A.54, or 609.21, must pay a $250 fee plus a $40 surcharge before the driver's
license is reinstated. Beginning July 1, 2002, the surcharge is $145. Beginning July 1, 2003, the
surcharge is $430. The $250 fee is to be credited as follows:
(1) Twenty percent must be credited to the driver services operating account in the special
revenue fund as specified in section 299A.705.
(2) Sixty-seven percent must be credited to the general fund.
(3) Eight percent must be credited to a separate account to be known as the Bureau of
Criminal Apprehension account. Money in this account may be appropriated to the commissioner
of public safety and the appropriated amount must be apportioned 80 percent for laboratory costs
and 20 percent for carrying out the provisions of section 299C.065.
(4) Five percent must be credited to a separate account to be known as the vehicle forfeiture
account, which is created in the special revenue fund. The money in the account is annually
appropriated to the commissioner for costs of handling vehicle forfeitures.
(c) The revenue from $50 of each surcharge must be credited to a separate account to be
known as the traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury account. The money in the account
is annually appropriated to the commissioner of health to be used as follows: 83 percent for
contracts with a qualified community-based organization to provide information, resources, and
support to assist persons with traumatic brain injury and their families to access services, and 17
percent to maintain the traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury registry created in section
144.662. For the purposes of this paragraph, a "qualified community-based organization" is a
private, not-for-profit organization of consumers of traumatic brain injury services and their
family members. The organization must be registered with the United States Internal Revenue
Service under section 501(c)(3) as a tax-exempt organization and must have as its purposes:
(1) the promotion of public, family, survivor, and professional awareness of the incidence
and consequences of traumatic brain injury;
(2) the provision of a network of support for persons with traumatic brain injury, their
families, and friends;
(3) the development and support of programs and services to prevent traumatic brain injury;
(4) the establishment of education programs for persons with traumatic brain injury; and
(5) the empowerment of persons with traumatic brain injury through participation in its
governance.
A patient's name, identifying information, or identifiable medical data must not be disclosed to the
organization without the informed voluntary written consent of the patient or patient's guardian
or, if the patient is a minor, of the parent or guardian of the patient.
(d) The remainder of the surcharge must be credited to a separate account to be known as
the remote electronic alcohol-monitoring program account. The commissioner shall transfer
the balance of this account to the commissioner of finance on a monthly basis for deposit in
the general fund.
(e) When these fees are collected by a licensing agent, appointed under section 171.061,
a handling charge is imposed in the amount specified under section 171.061, subdivision 4.
The reinstatement fees and surcharge must be deposited in an approved depository as directed
under section 171.061, subdivision 4.
    Subd. 3. Compliance with impoundment laws. A person whose license has been revoked
under section 169A.52 or 169A.54 may not be issued another license at the end of the revocation
period unless the person has complied with all applicable registration plate impoundment
provisions of sections 168.041 and 169A.60.
History: 1959 c 515 s 1,2; 1981 c 363 s 40; 1983 c 293 s 71; 1Sp1985 c 9 art 2 s 23; 1986 c
330 s 3; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 398 art 7 s 38; 1987 c 403 art 2 s 15; 1988 c 681 s 5; 1988 c 684 art
1 s 19; 1989 c 329 art 8 s 10; 1991 c 265 art 8 s 12; 1991 c 292 art 8 s 3; 1991 c 301 s 9; 1991 c
333 s 30; 1992 c 571 art 14 s 11; 1993 c 224 art 11 s 6; 1994 c 398 s 1; 1994 c 483 s 1; 1994 c
501 s 9; 1995 c 226 art 5 s 2; 1Sp1995 c 3 art 16 s 13; 1997 c 159 art 2 s 35; 1997 c 239 art 8 s 2;
1998 c 367 art 11 s 7; 1998 c 405 s 8; 1998 c 407 art 4 s 1; 1999 c 205 art 3 s 4; 2000 c 426 s 29;
2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 1Sp2001 c 8 art 2 s 48; art 11 s 12; art 12 s 15; 1Sp2001 c 9 art 19 s 13;
2002 c 220 art 7 s 10; 2002 c 379 art 1 s 113; 1Sp2003 c 19 art 2 s 40; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 44

171.30 LIMITED LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Conditions of issuance. (a) In any case where a person's license has been
suspended under section 171.18, 171.173, or 171.186, or revoked under section 169.792, 169.797,
169A.52, 169A.54, 171.17, or 171.172, the commissioner may issue a limited license to the
driver including under the following conditions:
(1) if the driver's livelihood or attendance at a chemical dependency treatment or counseling
program depends upon the use of the driver's license;
(2) if the use of a driver's license by a homemaker is necessary to prevent the substantial
disruption of the education, medical, or nutritional needs of the family of the homemaker; or
(3) if attendance at a postsecondary institution of education by an enrolled student of that
institution depends upon the use of the driver's license.
(b) The commissioner in issuing a limited license may impose such conditions and
limitations as in the commissioner's judgment are necessary to the interests of the public safety
and welfare including reexamination as to the driver's qualifications. The license may be limited to
the operation of particular vehicles, to particular classes and times of operation, and to particular
conditions of traffic. The commissioner may require that an applicant for a limited license
affirmatively demonstrate that use of public transportation or carpooling as an alternative to a
limited license would be a significant hardship.
(c) For purposes of this subdivision, "homemaker" refers to the person primarily performing
the domestic tasks in a household of residents consisting of at least the person and the person's
dependent child or other dependents.
(d) The limited license issued by the commissioner shall clearly indicate the limitations
imposed and the driver operating under the limited license shall have the license in possession at
all times when operating as a driver.
(e) In determining whether to issue a limited license, the commissioner shall consider the
number and the seriousness of prior convictions and the entire driving record of the driver and
shall consider the number of miles driven by the driver annually.
(f) If the person's driver's license or permit to drive has been revoked under section 169.792
or 169.797, the commissioner may only issue a limited license to the person after the person has
presented an insurance identification card, policy, or written statement indicating that the driver or
owner has insurance coverage satisfactory to the commissioner of public safety. The commissioner
of public safety may require the insurance identification card provided to satisfy this subdivision
be certified by the insurance company to be noncancelable for a period not to exceed 12 months.
(g) The limited license issued by the commissioner to a person under section 171.186,
subdivision 4 , must expire 90 days after the date it is issued. The commissioner must not issue
a limited license to a person who previously has been issued a limited license under section
171.186, subdivision 4.
(h) The commissioner shall not issue a limited driver's license to any person described in
section 171.04, subdivision 1, clause (6), (7), (8), (10), (11), or (14).
(i) The commissioner shall not issue a class A, class B, or class C limited license.
    Subd. 2. 60-day waiting period. A limited license shall not be issued for a period of 60
days to an individual whose license or privilege has been revoked or suspended for commission
of the following offenses:
(1) any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle was used; or
(2) failure to stop and disclose identity as required under section 169.09, in the event of a
motor vehicle accident resulting in the death or personal injury of another.
    Subd. 2a. Other waiting periods. Notwithstanding subdivision 2, a limited license shall not
be issued for a period of:
(1) 15 days, to a person whose license or privilege has been revoked or suspended for a
violation of section 169A.20, sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, or a statute or ordinance from another
state in conformity with either of those sections;
(2) 90 days, to a person who submitted to testing under sections 169A.50 to 169A.53 if the
person's license or privilege has been revoked or suspended for a second violation within ten years
or a third or subsequent violation of section 169A.20, sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, or a statute or
ordinance from another state in conformity with either of those sections;
(3) 180 days, to a person who refused testing under sections 169A.50 to 169A.53 if the
person's license or privilege has been revoked or suspended for a second violation within ten
years or a third or subsequent violation of sections 169A.20, 169A.50 to 169A.53, or a statute or
ordinance from another state in conformity with either of those sections; or
(4) one year, to a person whose license or privilege has been revoked or suspended for
committing manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle, committing criminal
vehicular homicide or injury under section 609.21, or violating a statute or ordinance from another
state in conformity with either of those offenses.
    Subd. 2b. Waiting period for youth under 18. If a person whose driver's license was
suspended or revoked for a violation listed under subdivision 2 or 2a is under the age of 18 years
at the time of that violation, the commissioner shall not issue a limited license to the person for a
period of time that is the longest of: (1) 90 days; or (2) twice the length of the period specified for
that violation in subdivision 2 or 2a.
    Subd. 2c. Extended waiting period. If a person's license or privilege has been revoked or
suspended for a violation of section 169A.20 or sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, or a statute or
ordinance from another state in conformity with either of those sections, and the person's alcohol
concentration was 0.20 or greater at the time of the violation, a limited license may not be issued
for a period of time equal to twice the time period specified in subdivision 2a or 2b.
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 2002 c 371 art 1 s 64]
    Subd. 4. Penalty. A person who violates a condition or limitation of a limited license
issued under subdivision 1 or fails to have the license in immediate possession at all times when
operating a motor vehicle is guilty of a misdemeanor. In addition, a person who violates a
condition or limitation of a limited license may not operate a motor vehicle for the remainder of
the period of suspension or revocation, or 30 days, whichever is longer.
History: 1959 c 632 s 1; 1971 c 217 s 1; 1971 c 644 s 15; 1978 c 727 s 10; 1982 c 423 s 12;
1984 c 622 s 19; 1984 c 655 art 2 s 24; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 136 s 2; 1987 c 171 s 1; 1989 c 307 s
34; 1989 c 321 s 16; 1991 c 270 s 3-5; 1991 c 333 s 31; 1992 c 570 art 1 s 23; 1992 c 571 art 14 s
12,13; 1993 c 347 s 17,18; 1994 c 501 s 10; 1995 c 230 s 10; 1996 c 275 s 11; 1996 c 442 s 22;
1997 c 12 art 3 s 9; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 56; 1998 c 388 s 30; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 91; 2000 c 478 art 2 s
7; 2002 c 344 s 5; 2005 c 136 art 18 s 14; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 3 s 78

171.302 LICENSE VIOLATIONS; CONSECUTIVE SENTENCING.
When sentencing an offender for violating section 171.20, subdivision 2; 171.24; or 171.30,
the court may impose consecutive sentences for offenses arising out of a single course of conduct
as permitted in section 609.035, subdivision 2.
History: 1996 c 442 s 23

171.305 IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE.
    Subdivision 1. Definition. "Ignition interlock device" or "device" means breath alcohol
ignition equipment designed to prevent a motor vehicle's ignition from being started by a person
whose alcohol concentration exceeds the calibrated setting on the device.
    Subd. 2.[Expired]
    Subd. 3. Performance standards. The commissioner shall specify performance standards
for ignition interlock devices, including standards relating to accuracy, safe operation of the
vehicle, and degree of difficulty rendering the device inoperative. The interlock ignition device
must be designed to operate from a 12-volt DC vehicle battery and be capable of locking a motor
vehicle's ignition when a minimum alcohol concentration of 0.020 grams of ethyl alcohol per
210 liters of breath is introduced into the device. The device must also require a breath sample
to determine alcohol concentration at variable time intervals ranging from five to 30 minutes
while the engine is running. The device must also be capable of recording information for later
review that includes the date and time of any use of the vehicle or any attempt to use the vehicle,
including all times that the vehicle engine was started or stopped and the alcohol concentration of
each breath sample provided.
    Subd. 4. Certification. The commissioner shall certify ignition interlock devices that
meet the performance standards and may charge the manufacturer of the ignition interlock
device a certification fee. A manufacturer who submits a device for certification must provide an
application for certification on a form prescribed by the department.
    Subd. 5. Issuance of limited license. The commissioner may issue a limited license to a
person whose driver's license has been canceled and denied due to an alcohol or controlled
substance-related incident under section 171.04, subdivision 1, clause (10), under the following
conditions:
(1) at least one-half of the person's required abstinence period has expired;
(2) the person has successfully completed chemical dependency treatment and is currently
participating in a generally recognized support group based on ongoing abstinence; and
(3) the person agrees to drive only a motor vehicle equipped with a functioning and certified
ignition interlock device.
    Subd. 6. Monitoring. The ignition interlock device must be monitored for proper use and
accuracy by an entity approved by the commissioner.
    Subd. 7. Payment. The commissioner shall require that the person issued a limited license
under subdivision 5 pay all costs associated with use of the device.
    Subd. 8. Proof of installation. A person approved for a limited license must provide proof
of installation prior to issuance of the limited license.
    Subd. 9. Misdemeanor. (a) A person who knowingly lends, rents, or leases a motor vehicle
that is not equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device to a person with a limited license
issued under subdivision 5 is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(b) A person who tampers with, circumvents, or bypasses the ignition interlock device, or
assists another to tamper with, circumvent, or bypass the device, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(c) The penalties of this subdivision do not apply if the action was taken for emergency
purposes or for mechanical repair, and the person limited to the use of an ignition interlock device
does not operate the motor vehicle while the device is disengaged.
    Subd. 10. Cancellation of limited license. The commissioner shall cancel a limited license
issued under this section if the device registers a positive reading for use of alcohol or the person
violates any conditions of the limited license.
    Subd. 11. Program standards. The program standards applicable to section 171.306 also
apply to this section.
History: 1991 c 270 s 6; 1992 c 570 art 1 s 24; 1993 c 347 s 19; 1997 c 12 art 3 s 10; 1999 c
238 art 2 s 91; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 1; 2007 c 54 art 3 s 4

171.306 IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE PILOT PROJECT.
    Subdivision 1. Pilot project established; reports. The commissioner shall conduct a
two-year ignition interlock device pilot project as provided in this section. The commissioner
shall select one metropolitan county and one rural county to participate in the pilot project. The
pilot project must begin on July 1, 2007, and continue until June 30, 2009. The commissioner
shall submit two preliminary reports by February 1, 2008, and by December 1, 2008, and a final
report by September 1, 2009, to the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house
of representatives committees having jurisdiction over criminal justice policy and funding. The
reports must evaluate the successes and failures of the pilot project, provide information on
participation rates, and make recommendations on continuing the project.
    Subd. 2. Performance standards; certification. The commissioner shall determine
appropriate performance standards and a certification process for ignition interlock devices for the
pilot project. Only devices certified by the commissioner as meeting the performance standards
may be used in the pilot project.
    Subd. 3. Pilot project components. (a) Under the pilot project, the commissioner shall issue
a driver's license to an individual whose driver's license has been revoked under chapter 169A
for a repeat impaired driving incident if the person qualifies under this section and agrees to
all of the conditions of the project.
    (b) The commissioner must denote the person's driver's license record to indicate the person's
participation in the program. The license must authorize the person to drive only vehicles having
functioning ignition interlock devices conforming with the requirements of subdivision 2.
    (c) Notwithstanding any statute or rule to the contrary, the commissioner has authority to and
shall determine the appropriate period for which a person participating in the ignition interlock
pilot program shall be subject to this program, and when the person is eligible to be issued:
    (1) a limited driver's license subject to the ignition interlock restriction;
    (2) full driving privileges subject to the ignition interlock restriction; and
    (3) a driver's license without an ignition interlock restriction.
    (d) A person participating in this pilot project shall agree to participate in any treatment
recommended by a chemical use assessment.
    (e) The commissioner shall determine guidelines for participation in the project. A person
participating in the project shall sign a written agreement accepting these guidelines and agreeing
to comply with them.
    (f) It is a misdemeanor for a person who is licensed under this section for driving a vehicle
equipped with an ignition interlock device to drive, operate, or be in physical control of a motor
vehicle other than a vehicle properly equipped with an ignition interlock device.
History: 2007 c 54 art 3 s 5

171.31 INFORMATION ON PERSON RECEIVING BLINDNESS BENEFITS.
The commissioner of public safety, in order to promote highway safety by restricting driving
privileges to those persons meeting accepted visual acuity standards, may request and shall
receive information concerning the identity and whereabouts of any person who has applied for or
received any type of welfare, licensing, or other benefits for the blind or nearly blind, from the
records of all departments, boards, bureaus, or other agencies of this state except the Department
of Revenue, and they shall provide such information notwithstanding the provisions of section
268.19 or any other existing law or rule to the contrary, except that section 270B.02, subdivision
1 , prohibits disclosure of information by the commissioner of revenue.
History: 1967 c 524 s 1; 1969 c 1129 art 1 s 18; 1984 c 514 art 3 s 1; 1985 c 248 s 70;
1989 c 184 art 2 s 7; 1997 c 66 s 79

171.32 ACTION UPON INFORMATION RELATING TO BLINDNESS.
    Subdivision 1. Actions by commissioner. The commissioner upon receipt of any such
information shall take such action as the commissioner deems necessary to insure that each such
person meets the accepted visual acuity standards required of all driver's license applicants and
such further action as required by law or rule. The driver's license of any person who has been
classified as legally blind shall be immediately canceled.
    Subd. 2. Visual acuity examination. Any person who is notified that the person's driver's
license may be canceled because of a defect of visual acuity pursuant to the provisions of this
section may demand and shall receive the standard visual acuity examination required of all
driver's license applicants, or may be examined by a qualified physician of the person's choice.
    Subd. 3. Use of examination data. The results of any visual acuity examination
administered because of information received pursuant to this section may be communicated by
the commissioner to the department from which the person received a benefit. The information
received by the commissioner pursuant to this section must not be divulged or otherwise made
known in any manner except in connection with the cancellation of drivers' licenses, and then
only to the person involved whose license is canceled, and except for statistical purposes which
do not reveal the identity of the individuals involved. The record of such person with respect to
visual acuity shall be maintained in the same manner as all other driver's license records.
History: 1967 c 524 s 2; 1985 c 248 s 70; 1986 c 444

171.321 QUALIFICATIONS OF SCHOOL BUS DRIVER.
    Subdivision 1. Endorsement. No person shall drive a school bus when transporting school
children to or from school or upon a school-related trip or activity without having a valid class A,
class B, or class C driver's license with a school bus endorsement except that a person possessing a
valid driver's license but not a school bus endorsement may drive a vehicle with a seating capacity
of ten or less persons used as a school bus but not outwardly equipped or identified as a school bus.
    Subd. 2. Rules. (a) The commissioner of public safety shall prescribe rules governing
the physical qualifications of school bus drivers and tests required to obtain a school bus
endorsement. The rules must provide that an applicant for a school bus endorsement or renewal is
exempt from the physical qualifications and medical examination required to operate a school
bus upon providing evidence of being medically examined and certified within the preceding
24 months as physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle, pursuant to Code of
Federal Regulations, title 49, part 391, subpart E, or rules of the commissioner of transportation
incorporating those federal regulations. The commissioner shall accept physical examinations for
school bus drivers conducted by medical examiners authorized as provided by Code of Federal
Regulations, title 49, chapter 3, part 391, subpart E.
(b) The commissioner of public safety, in conjunction with the commissioner of education,
shall adopt rules prescribing a training program for Head Start bus drivers. The program must
provide for initial classroom and behind-the-wheel training, and annual in-service training. The
program must provide training in defensive driving, human relations, emergency and accident
procedures, vehicle maintenance, traffic laws, and use of safety equipment. The program must
provide that the training will be conducted by the contract operator for a Head Start agency, the
Head Start grantee, a licensed driver training school, or by another person or entity approved by
both commissioners.
    Subd. 3. Records check of applicant. (a) Before issuing or renewing a school bus
endorsement, the commissioner shall conduct a criminal history and driver's license records check
of the applicant. The commissioner may also conduct the check at any time while a person is
so licensed. The check must consist of a criminal history check of the state criminal records
repository and a check of the driver's license records system. If the applicant has resided in
Minnesota for less than five years, the check must also include a national criminal history
check. The commissioner shall accept the national criminal history check request and the
fingerprints of the applicant and is authorized to exchange fingerprints with the Federal Bureau
of Investigation and request the Federal Bureau of Investigation to conduct a criminal history
check. The applicant's failure to cooperate with the commissioner in conducting the records
check is reasonable cause to deny an application or cancel a school bus endorsement. The
commissioner may not release the results of the records check to any person except the applicant
or the applicant's designee in writing.
(b) The commissioner may issue to an otherwise qualified applicant a temporary school bus
endorsement, effective for no more than 180 days, upon presentation of (1) an affidavit by the
applicant that the applicant has not been convicted of a disqualifying offense and (2) a criminal
history check from each state of residence for the previous five years. The criminal history check
may be conducted and prepared by any public or private source acceptable to the commissioner.
The commissioner may reissue the temporary endorsement if the national criminal records
repository check is timely submitted but not completed within the 180-day period.
    Subd. 4. Training. (a) No person shall drive a class A, B, C, or D school bus when
transporting school children to or from school or upon a school-related trip or activity without
having demonstrated sufficient skills and knowledge to transport students in a safe and legal
manner.
    (b) A bus driver must have training or experience that allows the driver to meet at least
the following competencies:
    (1) safely operate the type of school bus the driver will be driving;
    (2) understand student behavior, including issues relating to students with disabilities;
    (3) encourage orderly conduct of students on the bus and handle incidents of misconduct
appropriately;
    (4) know and understand relevant laws, rules of the road, and local school bus safety policies;
    (5) handle emergency situations; and
    (6) safely load and unload students.
    (c) The commissioner of public safety shall develop a comprehensive model school bus
driver training program and model assessments for school bus driver training competencies,
which are not subject to chapter 14. A school district, nonpublic school, or private contractor
may use alternative assessments for bus driver training competencies with the approval of the
commissioner of public safety. A driver may receive at least eight hours of school bus in-service
training any year, as an alternative to being assessed for bus driver competencies after the initial
year of being assessed for bus driver competencies. The employer shall keep the assessment or a
record of the in-service training for the current period available for inspection by representatives
of the commissioner.
    Subd. 5. Annual evaluation and license verification. (a) A school district, nonpublic
school, or private contractor shall provide in-service training annually to each school bus driver.
(b) A school district, nonpublic school, or private contractor shall annually verify the validity
of the driver's license of each employee who regularly transports students for the district in a
type A school bus, a type B school bus, a type C school bus, or type D school bus, or regularly
transports students for the district in a type III vehicle with the National Driver Register or with
the Department of Public Safety.
History: 1971 c 644 s 16; 1975 c 265 s 1; 1985 c 291 s 23; 1987 c 379 s 2; 1989 c 140 s
13; 1990 c 529 s 9; 1993 c 57 s 1; 1994 c 483 s 1; 1994 c 603 s 17; 1994 c 647 art 12 s 29-32;
1Sp1995 c 3 art 2 s 42-44; art 16 s 13; 1996 c 275 s 12; 1997 c 187 art 3 s 25; 1Sp1997 c 4 art 12
s 31; 2000 c 489 art 6 s 33-36; 2001 c 98 s 1; 2002 c 321 s 2; 1Sp2003 c 9 art 1 s 48; art 10 s 13;
2004 c 206 s 29; 2004 c 294 art 2 s 31; 2007 c 146 art 8 s 13

171.3215 CANCELING BUS ENDORSEMENT FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES.
    Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) As used in this section, the following terms have the
meanings given them.
(b) "School bus driver" means a person possessing a school bus driver's endorsement on a
valid Minnesota driver's license or a person possessing a valid Minnesota driver's license who
drives a vehicle with a seating capacity of ten or less persons used as a school bus.
(c) "Disqualifying offense" includes (1) any felony offense, (2) any misdemeanor, gross
misdemeanor, or felony violation of chapter 152, (3) any violation under section 609.3451,
609.746, subdivision 1, 617.23, 617.246, 617.247, or 617.293, or (4) while driving, operating, or
being in physical control of a school bus or a Head Start bus, a violation of section 169A.20 or a
similar statute or ordinance from another state.
(d) "Head Start bus driver" means a person possessing a valid Minnesota driver's license:
(1) with a passenger endorsement, who drives a Head Start bus;
(2) with a school bus driver's endorsement, who drives a Head Start bus; or
(3) who drives a vehicle with a seating capacity of ten or fewer persons used as a Head
Start bus.
    Subd. 2. Cancellation for disqualifying and other offenses. Within ten days of receiving
notice under section 631.40, subdivision 1a, or otherwise receiving notice for a nonresident driver,
that a school bus driver has been convicted of a disqualifying offense, the commissioner shall
permanently cancel the school bus driver's endorsement on the offender's driver's license and in
the case of a nonresident, the driver's privilege to operate a school bus in Minnesota. A school bus
driver whose endorsement or privilege to operate a school bus in Minnesota has been permanently
canceled may not apply for reinstatement. Within ten days of receiving notice under section
631.40, subdivision 1a, or otherwise receiving notice for a nonresident driver, that a school bus
driver has been convicted of a violation of section 169A.20, or a similar statute or ordinance from
another state, and within ten days of revoking a school bus driver's license under section 169A.52,
the commissioner shall cancel the school bus driver's endorsement on the offender's driver's
license or the nonresident's privilege to operate a school bus in Minnesota for five years. After
five years, a school bus driver may apply to the commissioner for reinstatement. Even after five
years, cancellation of a school bus driver's endorsement or a nonresident's privilege to operate a
school bus in Minnesota for a violation under section 169A.20, sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, or a
similar statute or ordinance from another state, shall remain in effect until the driver provides
proof of successful completion of an alcohol or controlled substance treatment program. For a first
offense, proof of completion is required only if treatment was ordered as part of a chemical use
assessment. Within ten days of receiving notice under section 631.40, subdivision 1a, or otherwise
receiving notice for a nonresident driver, that a school bus driver has been convicted of a fourth
moving violation in the last three years, the commissioner shall cancel the school bus driver's
endorsement on the offender's driver's license or the nonresident's privilege to operate a school
bus in Minnesota until one year has elapsed since the last conviction. A school bus driver who has
no new convictions after one year may apply for reinstatement. Upon canceling the offender's
school bus driver's endorsement, the commissioner shall immediately notify the licensed offender
of the cancellation in writing, by depositing in the United States post office a notice addressed to
the licensed offender at the licensed offender's last known address, with postage prepaid thereon.
    Subd. 2a. Cancellation for crime against minor. Within ten days of receiving notice that a
Head Start bus driver has committed a crime against a minor, the commissioner shall permanently
cancel the passenger endorsement on the offender's driver's license. Upon canceling the offender's
passenger endorsement, the commissioner shall immediately notify the licensed offender of the
cancellation in writing, by depositing in the United States post office a notice addressed to the
licensed offender at the licensed offender's last known address, with postage prepaid thereon. For
purposes of this subdivision, "crime against a minor" means an act committed against a minor
victim that constitutes a violation of section 609.185, 609.19, 609.195, 609.20, 609.205, 609.21,
subdivision 1a, paragraph (a) , 609.221, 609.222, 609.223, 609.342, 609.343, 609.344, 609.345,
609.352, or a felony violation of section 609.322, 609.324, or 609.377.
    Subd. 3. Background check. Before issuing or renewing a driver's license with a school
bus driver's endorsement, the commissioner shall conduct an investigation to determine if the
applicant has been convicted of committing a disqualifying offense, four moving violations in
the previous three years, a violation of section 169A.20 or a similar statute or ordinance from
another state, a gross misdemeanor, or if the applicant's driver's license has been revoked under
section 169A.52. The commissioner shall not issue a new bus driver's endorsement and shall not
renew an existing bus driver's endorsement if the applicant has been convicted of committing a
disqualifying offense. The commissioner shall not issue a new bus driver's endorsement and shall
not renew an existing bus driver's endorsement if, within the previous five years, the applicant has
been convicted of committing a violation of section 169A.20, or a similar statute or ordinance
from another state, a gross misdemeanor, or if the applicant's driver's license has been revoked
under section 169A.52, or if, within the previous three years, the applicant has been convicted
of four moving violations. An applicant who has been convicted of violating section 169A.20,
or a similar statute or ordinance from another state, or who has had a license revocation under
section 169A.52 within the previous ten years must show proof of successful completion of an
alcohol or controlled substance treatment program in order to receive a bus driver's endorsement.
For a first offense, proof of completion is required only if treatment was ordered as part of a
chemical use assessment. A school district or contractor that employs a nonresident school bus
driver must conduct a background check of the employee's driving record and criminal history in
both Minnesota and the driver's state of residence. Convictions for disqualifying offenses, gross
misdemeanors, a fourth moving violation within the previous three years, or violations of section
169A.20, or a similar statute or ordinance in another state, must be reported to the Department
of Public Safety.
    Subd. 4. Waiver of permanent cancellation. (a) The commissioner of public safety or
the commissioner's designee, in consultation with the Division of Driver and Vehicle Services,
may waive the permanent cancellation requirement of this section for a person convicted of a
misdemeanor, a gross misdemeanor, a nonfelony violation of chapter 152, or a felony that is
not a violent crime under section 609.1095.
(b) After notice to the requesting school district and contract provider of school bus
transportation, the commissioner may waive the permanent cancellation requirement after ten
years have elapsed since the person was convicted of a violation of section 609.582, subdivision
2 , 3, or 4.
History: 1991 c 265 art 9 s 60; 1994 c 603 s 18; 1994 c 647 art 12 s 33; 1Sp1995 c 3 art 2 s
45-47; 1Sp1997 c 4 art 12 s 32; 1998 c 367 art 2 s 32; art 6 s 15; 1999 c 241 art 9 s 42,43; 2000 c
478 art 2 s 7; 2001 c 25 s 1; 2007 c 54 art 3 s 14

171.3216 ACTIONS ON SCHOOL BUS ENDORSEMENT.
In addition to any authority granted under section 171.3215, the commissioner may cancel a
school bus driver's endorsement on a driver's license of any person if the commissioner determines
that the person has (1) been convicted of a gross misdemeanor that the commissioner determines
shows evidence that the person represents a risk to public safety, or (2) been convicted of a series
of violations of law that the commissioner determines shows evidence that the person represents
a risk to public safety. Upon canceling the offender's school bus driver's endorsement, the
commissioner shall immediately notify the offender of the cancellation in writing, by depositing
in the United States post office a notice, with postage prepaid, to the offender addressed to the
offender's last known address.
History: 2002 c 364 s 19

171.322 AGE LIMIT FOR OPERATOR OF VEHICLE FOR HIRE.
No person under 18 years of age shall operate a motor vehicle while it is in use as a carrier of
persons for hire, nor shall any person under 18 years of age drive a passenger carrying vehicle as
a hired driver.
History: 1971 c 644 s 16

171.323 [Repealed, 1993 c 142 s 4]

171.324 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS LICENSE ENDORSEMENT BACKGROUND
CHECKS.
    Subdivision 1. Endorsement; fee; account; appropriation. (a) Before being issued or
renewing a class C, class B, or class A driver's license with a hazardous materials endorsement, an
applicant must comply with the federal regulations incorporated in this section.
(b) The commissioner may charge the applicant a fee of up to $100 to cover the department's
actual costs of conducting the required background check of persons applying for a Minnesota
driver's license with a hazardous materials endorsement. The proceeds of the fee must be deposited
in an account in the special revenue fund. Money in the account is annually appropriated to the
commissioner to pay the actual costs associated with conducting the required background checks.
    Subd. 2. Adoption of federal regulations. Public Law 107-56, section 1012, as implemented
in Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 1572, is incorporated by reference except for
sections 1572.9 and 1572.11.
    Subd. 3. Rules. The commissioner may adopt rules pursuant to section 14.388, subdivision
1 , clause (1), in order to implement this section.
History: 2004 c 295 art 1 s 14

DRIVER TRAINING SCHOOLS

171.33 DRIVER TRAINING SCHOOL; DEFINITIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Commercial driver training school or school. "Commercial driver training
school" or "school" means a business enterprise conducted by an individual, association,
partnership, or corporation, which charges a fee, for the education and training of persons to drive
motor vehicles or for the preparation of an applicant for a driver's license examination given by
the state.
    Subd. 2. Instructor. "Instructor" means any person, whether acting as operator of a
commercial driver training school or as an employee of any such school, who teaches or
supervises persons learning to drive motor vehicles or preparing to take an examination for a
driver's license, and any person who supervises the work of any other instructor.
    Subd. 3. Commissioner. "Commissioner" means the commissioner of public safety.
History: 1967 c 880 s 1; 1969 c 1129 art 1 s 18; 1986 c 444

171.34 LICENSE FOR SCHOOL REQUIRED.
No commercial driver training school shall be established or operated after January 1,
1968, unless such school has applied for and obtained a license from the commissioner. The
commissioner shall issue or adopt rules governing the requirements for a license, which may
include requirements concerning location, equipment, courses of instruction, previous records of
the school and instructors, financial statements, filing of schedule of maximum fees and charges,
character and reputation of the instructors, insurance in such sum and with such provisions as
the commissioner deems necessary to protect the interests of the public, and such other matters
as the commissioner may prescribe, but the applicant shall not be required to have qualified for
a teacher's certificate as required in the public school system.
History: 1967 c 880 s 2; 1985 c 248 s 70

171.35 LICENSE FOR INSTRUCTOR REQUIRED.
No person shall act as an instructor after January 1, 1968, unless such person has applied
for and obtained a license from the commissioner. The commissioner shall issue or adopt
rules governing the requirements for an instructor's license, which may include requirements
concerning moral character, physical condition, knowledge of the courses of instruction and of
motor vehicle laws and safety principles and practices, previous personnel and employment
records, teaching experience and qualifications, and such other matters as the commissioner may
prescribe, but the applicant shall not be required to have qualified for a teacher's certificate as
required in the public school system.
History: 1967 c 880 s 3; 1985 c 248 s 70

171.36 LICENSE RENEWAL; FEES; PROCEEDS TO DRIVER SERVICES OPERATING
ACCOUNT.
All licenses expire one year from the date of issuance and may be renewed upon application
to the commissioner. Each application for an original or renewal school license must be
accompanied by a fee of $150 and each application for an original or renewal instructor's license
must be accompanied by a fee of $50. The license fees collected under sections 171.33 to 171.41
must be paid into the driver services operating account in the special revenue fund specified
under section 299A.705. A license fee must not be refunded in the event that the license is
rejected or revoked.
History: 1967 c 880 s 4; 1981 c 357 s 65; 1982 c 424 s 43; 1Sp2005 c 6 art 2 s 45

171.37 INSPECTION AND EXAMINATION.
The commissioner or an authorized representative shall inspect the school facilities and
equipment of applicants and licensees and shall examine applicants for instructor's licenses. The
commissioner shall issue or adopt such rules and do all things necessary and proper to accomplish
the purposes of this section.
History: 1967 c 880 s 5; 1985 c 248 s 70; 1986 c 444

171.38 SCHOOL OR INSTRUCTOR LICENSE DENIAL OR REVOCATION.
The commissioner may revoke or refuse to issue or renew a school or instructor's license in
any case on finding that the applicant or licensee has not complied with, or has violated any of
the provisions of sections 171.33 to 171.41 or any rule issued or adopted pursuant thereto. Any
revoked license shall be returned to the commissioner by the licensee, and its holder cannot
apply for a new license for a period as determined by the commissioner not to exceed one year
from the date of such revocation.
History: 1967 c 880 s 6; 1985 c 248 s 70; 1986 c 444

171.39 EXEMPTIONS.
(a) The provisions of sections 171.33 to 171.41 do not apply to any person giving driver
training lessons without charge; to employers maintaining driver training schools without charge
for their employees only; to a home-school within the meaning of sections 120A.22 and 120A.24;
or to schools or classes conducted by colleges, universities, and high schools as a part of the
normal program for those institutions.
(b) Any person who is a certificated driver training instructor in a high school driver training
program may give driver training instruction to persons over the age of 18 without acquiring a
driver training school license or instructor's license, and those instructors may make a charge for
that instruction, if there is no private commercial driver training school licensed under sections
171.33 to 171.41 within ten miles of the municipality where driver training instruction is given
and there is no adult drivers training program in effect in the schools of the school district in
which the trainee resides.
History: 1967 c 880 s 7; 1969 c 6 s 29; 1998 c 388 s 29; 1999 c 238 art 2 s 28; 1Sp2001 c 8
art 2 s 49

171.40 DRIVER TRAINING SCHOOL VIOLATION; PETTY MISDEMEANOR.
A violation of any provision of sections 171.33 to 171.41 or any rule issued or adopted
pursuant thereto shall be a petty misdemeanor.
History: 1967 c 880 s 8; 1969 c 6 s 30; Ex1971 c 27 s 27; 1985 c 248 s 70

171.41 COOPERATION OF STATE AGENCIES.
The commissioner shall request and receive the assistance of other state departments and
agencies in establishing rules pursuant to sections 171.33 to 171.41.
History: 1967 c 880 s 9; 1985 c 248 s 70

DRIVER LICENSE COMPACT

171.50 DRIVER LICENSE COMPACT.
The Driver License Compact is enacted into law and entered into with all other jurisdictions
legally joining in it, in the form substantially as follows:

DRIVER LICENSE COMPACT

ARTICLE I

Findings and Declaration of Policy
(a) The party states find that:
(1) The safety of their streets and highways is materially affected by the degree of compliance
with state and local ordinances relating to the operation of motor vehicles.
(2) Violation of such a law or ordinance is evidence that the violator engages in conduct
which is likely to endanger the safety of persons and property.
(3) The continuance in force of a license to drive is predicated upon compliance with laws
and ordinances relating to the operation of motor vehicles, in whichever jurisdiction the vehicle is
operated.
(b) It is the policy of each of the party states to:
(1) Promote compliance with the laws, ordinances, and administrative rules and regulations
relating to the operation of motor vehicles by their operators in each of the jurisdictions where
such operators drive motor vehicles.
(2) Make the reciprocal recognition of licenses to drive and eligibility therefor more just
and equitable by considering the overall compliance with motor vehicle laws, ordinances, and
administrative rules and regulations as a condition precedent to the continuance or issuance of
any license by reason of which the licensee is authorized or permitted to operate a motor vehicle
in any of the party states.

ARTICLE II

Definitions
As used in this compact:
(a) "State" means a state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of
Columbia, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
(b) "Home state" means the state which has issued and has the power to suspend or revoke
the use of the license or permit to operate a motor vehicle.
(c) "Conviction" means a conviction of any offense related to the use or operation of a motor
vehicle which is prohibited by state law, municipal ordinance, or administrative rule or regulation,
or a forfeiture of bail, bond, or other security deposited to secure appearance by a person charged
with having committed any such offense, and which conviction or forfeiture is required to be
reported to the licensing authority.

ARTICLE III

Reports of Convictions
The licensing authority of a party state shall report each conviction of a person from another
party state occurring within its jurisdiction to the licensing authority of the home state of the
licensee. Such report shall clearly identify the person convicted; describe the violation specifying
the section of the statute, code, or ordinance violated; identify the court in which action was
taken; indicate whether a plea of guilty or not guilty was entered, or the conviction was a result
of the forfeiture of bail, bond, or other security; and shall include any special findings made in
connection therewith.

ARTICLE IV

Effect of Conviction
(a) The licensing authority in the home state, for the purposes of suspension, revocation,
or limitation of the license to operate a motor vehicle, shall give the same effect to the conduct
reported, pursuant to article III of this compact, as it would if such conduct had occurred in
the home state, in the case of convictions for:
(1) manslaughter or negligent homicide resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle;
(2) driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or narcotic
drug, or under the influence of any other drug to a degree which renders the driver incapable
of safely driving a motor vehicle;
(3) any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used;
(4) failure to stop and render aid in the event of a motor vehicle accident resulting in the
death or personal injury of another.
(b) As to other convictions, reported pursuant to article III, the licensing authority in the
home state shall give such effect to the conduct as provided by the laws of the home state.
(c) If the laws of a party state do not provide for offenses or violations denominated or
described in precisely the words employed in subdivision (a) of this article, such party state shall
construe the denominations and descriptions appearing in the subdivision (a) hereof as being
applicable to and identifying those offenses or violations of a substantially similar nature and
the laws of such party state shall contain such provisions as may be necessary to ensure that
full force and effect is given to this article.

ARTICLE V

Applications for New Licenses
Upon application for a license to drive, the licensing authority in a party state shall ascertain
whether the applicant has ever held, or is the holder of a license to drive issued by any other party
state. The licensing authority in the state where application is made shall not issue a license
to drive to the applicant if:
(1) The applicant has held such a license, but the same has been suspended by reason, in
whole or in part, of a violation and if such suspension period has not terminated.
(2) The applicant has held such a license, but the same has been revoked by reason, in whole
or in part, of a violation and if such revocation has not terminated, except that after the expiration
of one year from the date the license was revoked, such person may make application for a new
license if permitted by law. The licensing authority may refuse to issue a license to any such
applicant if, after investigation, the licensing authority determines that it will not be safe to grant
to such person the privilege of driving a motor vehicle on the public highways.
(3) The applicant is the holder of a license to drive issued by another party state and currently
in force unless the applicant surrenders such license.

ARTICLE VI

Applicability of Other Laws

Except as expressly required by provisions of this compact, nothing contained herein shall be
construed to affect the right of any party state to apply any of its other laws relating to licenses to
drive to any person or circumstance, nor to invalidate or prevent any driver license agreement or
other cooperative arrangement between a party state and a nonparty state.

ARTICLE VII

Compact Administrator and Interchange of Information
(a) The head of the licensing authority of each party state shall be the administrator of this
compact for the state. The administrators, acting jointly, shall have the power to formulate all
necessary and proper procedures for the exchange of information under this compact.
(b) The administrator of each party state shall furnish to the administrator of each other
party state any information or documents reasonably necessary to facilitate the administration
of this compact.

ARTICLE VIII

Entry Into Force and Withdrawal
(a) This compact shall enter into force and become effective as to any state when it has
enacted the same into law.
(b) Any party state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute repealing the
same, but no such withdrawal shall take effect until six months after the executive head of the
withdrawing state has given notice of the withdrawal to the executive heads of all other party
states. No withdrawal shall affect the validity or applicability by the licensing authorities of states
remaining party to the compact of any report of conviction occurring prior to the withdrawal.

ARTICLE IX

Construction and Severability
This compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The
provisions of this compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence, or provision of
this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States,
or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the
validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency,
person, or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact shall be held contrary to the
constitution of any state party thereto, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the
remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters.
History: 1989 c 307 s 35

171.51 DEFINITIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Executive head. For purposes of sections 171.50 to 171.56, with reference to
this state, the term "executive head" means the governor of Minnesota.
    Subd. 2. Licensing authority. For purposes of sections 171.50 to 171.56, the term "licensing
authority" with reference to this state means the Driver's License Division of the Minnesota
Department of Public Safety.
History: 1989 c 307 s 36

171.52 TRANSFER OF INFORMATION.
The licensing authority shall furnish to the appropriate authorities of any other party state
information or documents reasonably necessary to facilitate the administration of section 171.50,
articles III, IV, and V.
History: 1989 c 307 s 37

171.53 COMPACT ADMINISTRATOR.
The compact administrator provided for in section 171.50, article VII, is not entitled to
additional compensation on account of service as administrator, but is entitled to expenses
incurred in connection with the duties and responsibilities as administrator, in the same manner
as for expenses incurred in connection with other duties or responsibilities of employment. The
compact administrator shall represent this state or shall appoint a representative for this state in
the Driver License Compact Commission, and that commission has the authority to formulate
procedures for exchanging information, as provided in section 171.50, article VII.
History: 1989 c 307 s 38

171.54 REPORTING TO LICENSING AUTHORITY.
A court or other agency or political subdivision of this state, that has jurisdiction to take
action regarding the suspension, revocation, cancellation, or other limitation of a license to drive,
shall promptly report the action and the circumstances upon which it is based to the licensing
authority on forms furnished by the department.
History: 1989 c 307 s 39

171.55 OUT-OF-STATE CONVICTIONS GIVEN EFFECT.
    The commissioner shall give the same effect for driver licensing purposes to conduct
reported from a licensing authority or court in another state or province or territory of Canada
that the commissioner would give to conduct reported from a court or other agency of this state,
whether or not the other state or province or territory of Canada is a party to the Driver License
Compact in section 171.50. The conduct to be given effect by the commissioner includes a report
of conviction for an offense enumerated in section 171.50, article IV, or an offense described in
sections 171.17 and 171.18.
History: 1989 c 307 s 40; 2007 c 54 art 3 s 6

171.56 FILING OF BYLAWS AND AMENDMENTS.
The Driver License Compact Commission shall file a copy of its bylaws and amendments to
the bylaws with the Minnesota secretary of state.
History: 1989 c 307 s 41