Ask a trooper

Question: I got stopped the other day and the Trooper mentioned that since I moved I need to update my driver’s license address. I thought I could just wait until the license was going to expire and update it then.

Answer: Minnesota law states if you change your name or address before your license expires, you must apply for a duplicate (replacement) license within 30 days. If you need a replacement instruction permit, you must renew your permit.

In addition, if your current license is lost, damaged, or destroyed, you must apply for a duplicate license. If you have lost your license, you must present proper identification when it is time to renew it.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.  (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).