How to Schedule a Minnesota Driving Knowledge Test Retest

You can retake Minnesota's written driving test at any Deputy Registrar office, and you can book your retest appointment online, by phone, or in person

If you did not pass the written knowledge test on your first attempt, you do not have to wait. Minnesota lets you retake the test as soon as you are ready — there is no mandatory waiting period between attempts. You schedule a retest the same way you scheduled your first test: through the state's online appointment system, by calling a Deputy Registrar office directly, or by walking in during business hours.

The test itself is identical to the first one: 40 multiple-choice questions about Minnesota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. You will take the test on a computer at the Deputy Registrar office where you have your appointment.

Key Takeaways

• You can retake the knowledge test immediately after failing — Minnesota has no waiting period between attempts.
• Book your retest through the online appointment system at mn.gov/dvs, by phone at the Deputy Registrar office, or by showing up in person during office hours.
• The retest covers the same material and uses the same format as your first attempt: 40 multiple-choice questions, 32 correct to pass.
• Bring the same documents you brought to your first test — your current ID and proof of residency if you have not yet received your Minnesota ID.

Scheduling your retest online

The fastest way to book a retest is through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. Go to mn.gov/dvs and look for the appointment scheduling link on the homepage. You will need to enter your driver's license number or ID number, your date of birth, and your last name. The system will show you available time slots at Deputy Registrar offices near you.

Choose the office and date that work for you, confirm your appointment, and you will receive a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot — you will need it when you arrive for your test. The online system is open 24 hours and lets you see availability weeks in advance, so you can plan around your schedule.

Calling or visiting a Deputy Registrar office

If you prefer to book by phone, call the Deputy Registrar office closest to you. You can find the phone number and hours on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website under "Find a Deputy Registrar." When you call, have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. The staff will tell you what times are open and will hold your appointment once you confirm.

You can also walk in to any Deputy Registrar office during business hours and ask to schedule a retest appointment on the spot. Many offices have same-day or next-day slots available, though wait times vary by location and time of day. If you go in person, bring your ID and be prepared to wait if the office is busy.

What to bring to your retest appointment

Bring the same documents you brought to your first test. You will need a valid photo ID — a current driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card. If you do not yet have a Minnesota ID and brought proof of residency to your first test, bring the same document again (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address).

You do not need to bring study materials or notes. The test is administered on a computer, and you will be given scratch paper and a pencil if you need them. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so the staff can check you in and answer any last-minute questions.

How long the retest takes and when you get your result

The test itself takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how quickly you work through the questions. You will see your score immediately after you finish — the computer will tell you whether you passed or failed before you leave the office. If you pass, you can move forward with getting your permit or license. If you do not pass, you can schedule another retest right then, or you can take time to study and book a later appointment.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test in Minnesota, so you can keep trying until you pass. Many people find it helpful to study the same materials between attempts — the Minnesota Driver's Manual is free online and covers everything on the test.

Rescheduling or canceling your retest appointment

If you need to change your appointment, log back into the online scheduling system using your confirmation number, or call the Deputy Registrar office where you booked. Most offices ask that you cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment time. If you cancel without rescheduling, you can book a new slot whenever you are ready.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may lose that slot, but you can schedule another one. There is no penalty for missing an appointment — you simply book again when you are ready to take the test.

Preparing for your second attempt

Between your first and second test, review the Minnesota Driver's Manual, which covers all the topics on the written test. You can read it online for free at mn.gov/dvs or request a printed copy at any Deputy Registrar office. Focus on the areas where you felt less confident during your first attempt.

Many people also use practice tests available online through the state website or through third-party study sites. Taking practice tests under timed conditions can help you get used to the format and pace of the real test. On test day, read each question carefully, do not rush, and remember that you only need 32 out of 40 correct to pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I retake the test the same day I fail?

No. You must schedule a separate appointment for your retest. However, you can book that appointment immediately after you fail — either online, by phone, or in person at the office — and many offices have openings within a day or two.

What if I keep failing the test?

Minnesota does not limit the number of times you can retake the knowledge test. You can keep scheduling appointments and trying again. Between attempts, use the Minnesota Driver's Manual and practice tests to identify which topics you need to study more.

Do I need to bring my failed test results to my retest appointment?

No. The Deputy Registrar office has your test history in their system. Just bring your ID and proof of residency if needed, and let the staff know you are retaking the test.

Is the retest the same as the first test?

Yes. The retest covers the same material, has the same format (40 multiple-choice questions), and uses the same passing score (32 correct). The specific questions may be different, but the topics and difficulty level are the same.

What happens if I pass the retest?

Once you pass, you will receive your instruction permit or driver's license depending on what you were testing for. The Deputy Registrar will tell you next steps — whether you need to schedule a road test, pay a fee, or take additional steps to get your license.