When the classroom portion has been successfully completed (meaning attending all class meeting times and assigned coursework), a "blue card" will be issued which entitles the student to take the written permit test once they are at least 15 years of age.
In Detroit Lakes, learner's permit written tests are given Monday through Friday at the Minnesota Department of Transportation located at 1000 Highway 10 West. Check their web site for the most up-to-date information and hours at dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/locations.
When you're ready to apply for your learner's permit, head to your local DVS office* and:
- Submit your birth certificate and social security card or other acceptable forms of identification Acceptable forms are listed on the DMV's web site.
- Submit your driver education certificate of enrollment (blue card).
- Pass the written test.
- Complete a permit/license application with a parental/legal guardian signature
- Pay the $15.50 learner's permit fee (cash or check)
- Your permit is valid for 2 years, and you may renew it if necessary.
*Appointments may be necessary. Check the website for current hours and instructions.
Once you have your learner's permit in hand, you're allowed to practice supervised driving under the following conditions:
- You must be accompanied by a certified driving instructor, your parent/guardian, or other licensed driver 21 years old or older.
- You and all of your passengers must be wearing a properly-fastened seat belt (or, if driving with children, they must use a properly-fastened child restraint system).
- You may not use a cell phone in any capacity while driving (not even with a hands-free device).
You will need to hold your learner's permit for at least 6 months and complete a minimum 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a professional instructor. (Please contact Carrie Cornwell at 218-847-4418, #6102 or ccornwell@detlakes.k12.mn.us to schedule your behind the wheel appointments, approximately 6-8 weeks before you plan to take your road test.)
You will also need to complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving practice, with 15 hours being at night, before you are eligible to apply for your provisional license. This must be tracked on a state-approved driving log. In addition to the Supervised Driving Log, Parents/guardians need to attend a supplemental parent class provided by a Driver's Education program (Detroit Lakes students will be notified of scheduled dates). Or, if parent/guardian chooses not to complete the supplemental parent class, the driving log must show at least 50 hours of supervised driving (15 of which are nighttime hours).
