How to Schedule the MN Knowledge Test
If you think you're ready to take the Knowledge Test and earn your Instruction Permit to Drive, make sure you have prepared for everything below BEFORE you schedule it:
Finish your 30 classroom hours with a State Approved Driver Education Program. You should have your Classroom Completion Letter from your driver ed school as proof. (You must have this letter before moving on to step 2.)
Enroll with a driving school (like South Metro Driving School) by providing your Classroom Completion Letter and paying the enrollment fee. This is required by MN State Law for anyone under age 18 who wants to earn an Instruction Permit — you cannot earn a permit without enrolling with a Behind-The-Wheel Driving Program unless you're 18 or older. Once you enroll, your driving school will enter your information into the State DMV system, and within 2–3 days you'll receive an E-Card (Blue Card) by email from the State of MN — your green light to take the Knowledge Test. Double-check your full legal name and birthdate are correct, and contact your driving school about any errors to avoid delays.
Go to DPS.MN.GOV, find the online services page, and Pre-Apply for a New/Renewed License or ID. This must be completed within 30 days of your Knowledge Test. It can sometimes be completed on paper at the DMV, but it's better to do it in advance.
Go to DPS.MN.GOV, find the online services page, then choose Schedule an Appointment → Driver Services → Knowledge Test. Pick your preferred location, date, and time. (Appointments can typically be scheduled up to 30 days in advance.)
Be at least 15 years old.
Take and pass the Knowledge Test with 80% or better (31< correct of 40 questions).
Free Practice Tests, from NorthStarDE.com
Once you pass the Knowledge Test, pass the Vision Test, finalize your application at the DMV, and pay the instruction permit fee, you'll receive a temporary paper instruction permit — and you can start driving with adult (21+) supervision. Yes, you can drive home from the DMV. Your Instruction Permit ID Card arrives by mail within 2 to 4 months.
Your next steps: log 50 hours of Supervised Driving (15 hours at night) with an adult 21+, and complete your 6 hours of Behind-The-Wheel Lessons with a driving instructor.
"Not sure you'll pass? Read [How to Pass the MN Knowledge Test].
Enroll with South Metro Driving School
Written by Chris Scanlon, Program Director & Owner of South Metro Driving School
SouthMetroDrivingSchool.com — Info@SouthMetroDS.com — 612-552-1929
South Metro Driving School is a Minnesota State-Certified Driving School serving the south Twin Cities Metro — with core markets in Apple Valley, Rosemount, and Eagan, and growing service in Farmington, Lakeville, and Hastings.
This article reflects Chris's personal experience running a licensed Minnesota driving school and independent research from official Minnesota state and city sources, current as of September 2026. It's meant as a helpful starting point, not legal advice - rules change and cities differ, so always confirm the current requirements with Minnesota DVS (dps.mn.gov) and your local city before you ride or drive.
Did you find this information helpful? Explore our other guides on permits, road tests, and getting your license — and if we've earned it, we'd be grateful for a 5-Star Google Review.
