How to Get Your Driver's License Back After a Minnesota DWI Conviction

 

If your driver’s license has been suspended in Minnesota because of a DWI conviction, you will have to take steps to get it reinstated when the time comes. Living without driving privileges can be difficult, so it’s important to understand what’s involved so you don’t have to wait even more time to get back on the road.

 

Steps to Take to Get Your Driver’s License Reinstated in Minnesota

 

When your license is suspended, the Department of Public Safety will send you a notice of withdrawal which lists the requirements to have your license reinstated. It may be different for different cases. If this is your third or subsequent impaired driving incident within 10 years, you will be required to attend chemical dependency rehabilitation. Once you have complied with the required penalties and punishments, you are eligible for reinstatement.

 

The fee for reinstatement is $250 plus a $430 surcharge for alcohol-related and CVO-related withdrawals. You will also need to pay a $24 driver’s license application fee.

 

If you are eligible for a public defender, you may also be eligible to pay the reinstatement fee and surcharge in two installments. You may be required to pay an additional handling fee though. The driver’s license will expire in two years unless the second installment is paid.

 

In some cases, you may be able to get your driver’s license back by installing an ignition interlock device on your car. Also, it may be a requirement for driver’s license reinstatement.

 

Limited Driver’s License Requirements in Minnesota

 

You may be eligible for a limited driver’s license before your suspension period has ended. For example, you might be allowed to drive to and from school, work, or a medical or chemical dependency treatment center, or to provide transportation for your children. You may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car. To learn more about applying for a limited license, call the driver’s license line at (651) 296-6911.

 

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements in Minnesota

 

An ignition interlock device works by requesting a breath sample before the engine starts and also occasionally as you drive. If you fail one of these “rolling” tests, an alarm will sound letting you know that you need to pull off and stop the car. If you are ordered to have an ignition interlock device on your car, you will be responsible for the cost of installing and maintaining it. Be aware that failing breath tests and tampering with the device can affect you ability to get your driver’s license fully instated or even result in your driver’s license or restricted license being taken away.

 

More Information about Getting Your Driver’s License Back in Minnesota

 

Getting your driver’s license reinstated can be more difficult if you have many previous DUI convictions or a fatality was involved. Every case is slightly different, so it can be useful to contact a Minnesota DUI attorney to learn more about your specific situation. He or she will understand the ins and outs of the system and be able to guide you through the process.

 

Additionally, you can learn more from this informational brief, An Overview of Minnesota’s DWI Laws, or the Driver and Vehicle Services website. You can also call Driver’s Services at (651) 297-3298 or email dvs.driverslicense@state.mn.us. The mailing address is as follows.

Driver and Vehicle Services – Central Office
445 Minnesota Street, Suite 190
Saint Paul, MN 55101-5190
 

Be aware that the Central Office is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm. You can get directions on the website here.