Require Periodic Driver’s License Re-Testing For All Minnesotans To Improve Road Safety

 

The purpose of this bill is to make Minnesota roads safer by requiring drivers to update their skills through periodic

re-testing. This helps reduce preventable crashes caused by outdated habits or changes in driving ability.

 

Minnesota drivers currently renew their licenses without retaking any driving or written test after their first exam at

age sixteen. But one test at sixteen cannot guarantee a lifetime of safe driving. People can forget laws, develop unsafe

habits, or experience changes in vision, reaction time, or judgment. Without periodic testing, these changes may go

unnoticed and put others at risk. Unsafe driving ability at any age can lead to preventable accidents. According to the

Minnesota Department of Public Safety, human error contributes to more than 90% of crashes in the state. Re-testing

every 20 years until age 65, and every 8 years after, ensures that all Minnesota drivers stay capable, aware, and

responsible behind the wheel.

 

“Re-test” means a written knowledge test and a short on-road driving evaluation, administered by the Department of

Public Safety.

“Driver” means any person holding a valid Minnesota driver’s license.

“Renewal period” means the time between driver’s license renewals.

“Department of Public Safety (DPS)” means the state agency that administers driver licensing, exams, suspensions, and

renewals.

A driver shall complete a re-test every 20 years from the date of the driver’s initial license issuance until the driver

reaches age 65. After age 65, a driver shall complete a re-test every 8 years.

 

 

This bill does not require any state spending. A $10 re-test fee shall be added to each driver’s license renewal. All

funds collected shall go to the Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division to support testing

staff and facilities.

 

A driver who fails to complete the required re-test within 60 days of the renewal date shall have the driver’s license

temporarily suspended until the test is completed and passed. The Department of Public Safety shall enforce this act.

Any person who operates a motor vehicle while their license is suspended under this act shall be guilty of a

misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days imprisonment and may include a fine not exceeding $1,000, abiding to Minnesota

Statute 171.24.

 

This act shall take effect on January 1, 2027, and will apply to all driver’s license renewals issued on or after that

date.