ST. PAUL, MN- State Representative Linda Runbeck, R-Circle Pines, has introduced legislation to allow drivers who have completed classroom and supervised driving requirements and those who are at the point of scheduling a behind-the-wheel exam, to obtain a provisional driver’s license without taking a driving exam.
“Minnesota had significant issues scheduling driver exam tests before the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rep. Runbeck. “Closures and social distancing guidelines have made this problem worse, leading to the cancellation of hundreds of previously scheduled driving exams. Temporarily waiving requirements for a behind-the-wheel exam is a commonsense step we can take to streamline this process and ensure permit holders can successfully obtain a license during this uncertain time.”
House File 4649 allows any driver that has obtained a Minnesota driver's permit and has a photo on file at the Department of Public Safety to forego current requirements to complete a road exam prior to obtaining a Minnesota non-Real Id compliant driver’s license.
The legislation also waives the requirement of an in-person vision test and would require an individual to take a behind the wheel road exam for the first re-renewal of their driver’s license. Taken together, these changes allow individuals that meet these requirements to be able to process the application by use of a dropbox, at a Deputy Registrar, by mail, or online instead of having to complete the process in person.
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