1. Obtain an instruction permit by completing a driver's education course and passing the written test at the Department of Public Safety.
            Limitations while driving with a permit:
                    - Drive with the supervision of a licensed 21 year old or licensed instructor
                    - No traffic violation for 6 months
                    - No driving drunk or under the influence
                    - Every occupant must wear a seat belt
                    - No cell phone use, with or without a hand free cell phone device

2. Obtain a provisional license if the above conditions are met, the student tests and obtains a provisional license. Provisional License revoked if:
                    - Conviction for crash related moving violation
                    - Conviction for drunk driving or driving under the influence

3. Obtain a full driver's license after a student holds a provisional license for 12 months and satisfies these requirements:
                    - No convictions for alcohol, controlled substance, or crash related violations
                    - No more than one moving violation that is not crash related
                    - Have driven for at least 10 hours under the supervision of a licensed driver who is at least
                       21 years of age



Nighttime Driving Limitation
-For the first six months of licensure: Driving is prohibited midnight - 5 a.m.
Exemptions: Driving when accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older; driving between home and place of employment; driving to/from home and a school event for which the school has not provided transportation; driving for employment purposes. The nighttime limitation is lifted after the first six months or licensure.


Teen Passenger Limitations
-For the first six-months of licensure; Only one passenger under the age of 20 is permitted, unless accompianed by a parent or guardian. For the second six-months of licensure: No more than three passengers under the age of 20 are permitted, unless accompianed by a parent or guardian.
Exemption: Passengers are under age 20 who are members of the immediate family are permitted.


Cell Phone and Text Messaging Restrictions
- It is illegal for drivers under age 18 to use a cellular/wireless phone, whether hand-held or hands-free, except to call 911 in an emergency.
- A new law has made it illegal for drivers of all ages to compose, read, or send text messages or access the Internet on a wireless device while on the road. This is a primary offense law, which means you can be pulled over if you are observed violating the new law; violation can cost up to $300.


Seat Belt Use
- Drivers and passengers of all ages must wear a seat belt or be properly secured in a child restraint. This is a primary offense law, which means you can be pulled over if you are observed violating the new law.


Note: You can visit the MN DPS website or contact the DPS directly by phone or email.